Here in Alabama, thousands of sandhill cranes invade the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge every winter. Because this migration of the sandhill cranes in Alabama only happens this time of year, it’s a real treat to see. For information about Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge and its famous sandhill cranes, take a look below.
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Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, which was established in 1938, is located in Decatur, Alabama. It's one of the state's top wildlife refuges.
Covering approximately 35,000 acres, this wildlife refuge's primary purpose is to provide a safe habitat for 300 species of migratory and wintering birds, in addition to other wildlife.
Speaking of birds, Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge attracts thousands of waterfowl each year. In fact, Alabama's largest duck population can be found at this wildlife refuge each winter.
Sandhill cranes are quite possibly Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge's main attraction during the winter season. They begin to arrive in late November, and the number of them peak in early January.
The best place to observe these sandhill cranes is from the wildlife refuge's Observation Building. Everyone loves gathering here to watch the birds interact with their environment, especially children.
Whooping cranes, which are North America's tallest birds, can also be viewed at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. They're also among North America's rarest and most endangered birds.
In addition to birds, this wildlife refuge is also a habitat for 47 species of mammals, 115 species of fish, 38 species of freshwater mussels, 74 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 26 species of freshwater snails.
If you happen to be passing through Decatur, Alabama this winter season, consider visiting Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Its famous sandhill cranes are a definite must see!
Visit the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge’s webpage for more information about the migration of the sandhill cranes in Alabama.
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Have you ever visited Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge during the winter? If so, what did you think about the sandhill cranes? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
While some folks are scooping up all things pumpkin spice and firing up their fall candles, this is the time of year I start scouring for pumpkin patches near me. If you're a kindred spirit, here's a sampling of the best pumpkin patches in Alabama. These farms and destinations span the entire state and offer experiences as varied as the communities where they're located. Explore these spots, and you'll find a new favorite fall tradition, plus the perfect pumpkins for your seasonal decor.
Searching for the "best pumpkin patches near me?" Bennett Farms has been in the same family for four generations, so family fun is especially top-of-mind in all you can expect at the pumpkin patch. You can explore the farm's beautiful grounds, which include a wildflower field and a loblolly nature trail. Games and activities galore include a hay bale maze, a corn maze, scarecrow decorating, and a rat run - just to name a few. Secure a spot at a picnic table and choose from the kitchen's variety of tasty food from burgers and barbecue to apple pies and teacakes. If you're looking for pumpkin patches near Birmingham, this one's about a one-hour drive east and open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October. For hours and more details, visit the Bennett Farms website or follow Bennett Farms on Facebook.
Looking for that ideal sunflower field photo op? You'll find it at Cornutt Farms, which opens its sunflower and pumpkin patches on Saturdays starting from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October. This fifth-generation family farm has long been known for its corn, cattle, soybeans, wheat, and hay. In 2018, the family began welcoming other families to the farm to enjoy their colorful fall crops and all the fun that comes with them. Enjoy kids' activities and treats while pumpkin shopping. Get exact hours and details on the Cornutt Farms website or on the Cornutt Farms Facebook page.
Griffin Farms operated as a dairy farm under two generations from 1961 to 1997, and the third generation came on board a decade ago to reimagine the farm as a destination for families. Today, guests can experience zip-lining, feeding animals, rock wall climbing, hayrides, a barrel train, and much more. If you're seeking pumpkin patches near Tuscaloosa, Griffin Farms is a smart choice since it's only about a 30-minute drive east. The farm welcomes the public on Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Sunday from noon until 6 p.m. throughout October and is available for private groups with reservations during the week. Find more details including hours and pricing on the Griffin Farms website or visit Griffin Farms on Facebook.
Pony rides, feeding animals, picking sunflowers, and mining for gems are all things that can round out your pumpkin-picking experience at Isbell's Pumpkin Farm. The farm's 2024 fall season runs from Sept. 28 through Nov. 3 and features new, early evening hours on Thursdays and Fridays in addition to their typical Saturday and Sunday public hours. Plan to grab a treat from a food truck while you're there. The Isbell's Pumpkin Farm website offers exact hours and pricing details. Stay current on the farm's latest happenings on the Isbell's Pumpkin Farm Facebook page.
While Aplin is also a favorite spot for sunflowers, the pumpkin patch is one of the best in Alabama. Keep in mind if you're just looking to buy a pumpkin and a host of other delicious produce, this four-generation family farm also keeps its barn and store open throughout the week. You can see all they have in store on the Aplin Farms Facebook page, where you'll also find info about the pumpkin patch hours and other details when they are available.
While we do not recommend you trust these two pigs with your pumpkin carving, you are urged to keep an eye open for them and their barnyard friends at Down on the Farm, which opens its 2024 fall season from Sept. 21 through Nov. 1 on Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. and on Sundays from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Visitors can feed the goats, shoot a corn cannon, romp on a playground, mine for gems, and explore a corn maze that features cartoon character Foghorn Leghorn. Get more details about hours and pricing on the Down on the Farm website or visit the Down on the Farm Facebook page.
With over 80 acres of pick-your-own pumpkins and another 20 acres solely for kids and families to play, Tate Farms is the go-to choice for people looking for pumpkin patches near Huntsville. It is North Alabama's oldest and largest retail pumpkin farm and a premier pumpkin paradise. The Tate family has been on the land since originally farming it as sharecroppers in 1867 and eventually expanded to more than 8,000 acres they own or lease today. While the pumpkin operation began in 1996, the Tates have kept it fresh with new features every year. Among the attractions for the 2024 season is North America's only dairy-go-round — a custom, Italian-made carousel featuring carved farm-themed animals. There's also the Little Farmer Playground, pedal carts, hay rides, a corn train, jumping pillows, apple cannons, and more! This place is fun for the whole family. Get all the details about hours, prices, and the latest developments on the Tate Farms website or Tate Farms Facebook page.
This goat wore its best seasonal sweater to encourage you to visit, feed it, and find yourself a pumpkin at Hidden River Farm. If that's not enough, you can also shoot an apple cannon, make scarecrows, ride ponies, tackle an obstacle course, and more as part of your pumpkin patch experience. The farm's 2024 season runs 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 20 to Nov. 3. If you want to make a full day of it, bring food to grill or picnic, or purchase food from the kitchen. Note that this is a good one for people looking for pumpkin patches reasonably near Birmingham or Huntsville because it's about an hour's drive from both cities. Visit the Hidden Rivers Farm website or Hidden Rivers Farm Facebook for more details, photos, and news.
9. Cornfield County Farms Pumpkin Patch - Wetumpka
If you're looking for pumpkin patches near Montgomery, check out Cornfield County Farms Pumpkin Patch, which is a 20-minute drive northeast of the state capital. Sunflower fields surround a central gathering space where kids dangle on tire swings affixed to the property's iconic oak tree and others enjoy concession snacks at picnic tables. The patch's 2024 dates are Sept. 30 through Oct. 29, with public hours on Saturday and Sunday and availability for group reservations Monday through Friday. Visit the Cornfield County Farms Facebook page or Cornfield County Farms website for more details.
The name fits fits The Great Pumpkin Patch, which features a big, red, barn, a large inflatables park for kids, an extreme bungee experience, a lofty hay pyramid for climbing, an expansive list of other activities, including a petting zoo, country store, arts and crafts, and food. This destination is different from the others in that it is open every day of the week. And unlike most other pumpkin patches that prohibit pets, pooches are welcomed as long as they are leashed, can handle crowds, and have owners who pick up after them. The patch's season runs from late September through early November.
Have you had a chance to visit any of these spots? Share your tips about what made your time special. Do you agree they are the best pumpkin patches in Alabama? Let us know other destinations worthy of a look. In the meantime, here are a few other ideas for fun fall activities in Alabama. If you're road-tripping to any of these places, take a peek at our ultimate road-trip essentials packing list to be prepared for the unexpected.
Fall is by far my favorite time of year! And its arrival in Alabama means you’ll have the opportunity to visit several places throughout the state you might not consider the rest of the year, such as the amazing apple orchards in Alabama. Apple picking in Alabama has always been a popular fall experience. Listed below are a few of our favorite places to go apple picking near me in Alabama – each of which would be perfect for a day trip in the fall. And you can bring the kids along for some fun too!
Among the longest-running apple orchards in Alabama, Scott's Orchard is a century-old and grows 18 varieties of apples on 100 acres. In addition to these apples and other seasonal fruits, including peaches, plums, and more, this family-owned orchard is also known for its delicious cider.
Looking for places to go apple picking near me in Fackler? Crow Mountain Orchards, which opened in 1974, covers approximately 150 acres. In addition to apples, it also grows peaches, seedless grapes, pears, berries, and cherries. In the fall, guests of Crow Mountain Orchards can enjoy its famous apple cider, which is made from a secret recipe. So, not only is it an apple orchard but an apple cider mill!
Mountain View Orchards has been producing high-quality fruits since the early 1930s, making it a great choice for apple picking in Alabama. Even though different types of fruits are grown here, apples and peaches are the orchard's main fruits.
Steele Orchard has been in business since 1985 and offers 20 varieties of apples and six varieties of peaches. Located on-site is also the orchard's bakery, which offers delicious fried pies, homemade jams, apple butter, homemade ice cream, fresh cider, and more. With all it has to offer, it’s easy to see why Steele Orchards is one of the most popular apple orchards near me in Alabama.
Isom's Orchard has been in business since 1957 and is one of Alabama's top fall attractions. Covering more than 250 acres, this orchard grows different types of fruits and vegetables. It's best known for its variety of apples and delicious cider slushies. You'll definitely want to stop at one of the top apple orchards in Alabama.
Have you been to any of these apple orchards in Alabama? Do you have a favorite apple orchard near me in Alabama? Tell us in the comments!
If you're up for some hiking in Alabama this fall, check out our Ultimate Hiking Packing List for all the gear you may need.
The opening of apple orchards in Alabama isn’t the only reason fall is the best season in Alabama. Need some convincing? We thought so, which is why we’ve come up with several reasons why fall in Alabama is the BEST!
