The leaves are changing color and that means fall is here! Since I watched "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" as a kid, I've searched for the best pumpkin patch in Washington. Linus explains the criteria best: "Each year, the Great Pumpkin rises out of the pumpkin patch that he thinks is the most sincere." So, when considering the best pumpkin patches in Washington, my taste favors places where pumpkins remain the stars of the show. Carnival themes are out. The nostalgic pleasures of hay bale rides, making friends with farm animals, and appreciating swaying fields of corn are in. For patches where sentiment is valued over spectacle, check out these seven farms that would be Linus-approved. Here are some of the best pumpkin patches in Washington.

1. Thompson's Farm & Market - Naches, Washington

Family-owned since 1898, Thompson's Farm has made a name for itself as one of the best pumpkin patches near Yakima. This working farm sells its wares year-round from a quaint stand abutting Old Naches Highway. Every weekend in October, Thompson's permits the public to explore its fields and select their very own pumpkins.

2. The Pomeroy Living History Farm - Yacolt, Washington

The only entry on this list to be included on the National Register of Historic Places, The Pomeroy Farm is a local landmark and must-visit for history buffs and pumpkin enthusiasts alike. The story of the Pomeroys, who moved to the land in July of 1910, is one of perseverance. Nowadays, in addition to being open every weekend of October for pumpkin picking, the farm hosts workshops on food preservation and woodworking.

3. Schilter Family Farm - Olympia, Washington

I have a soft spot for Schilter's. This charming family farm was my childhood pumpkin patch and I can't recommend it highly enough to families. Autumn revelers of all ages can tempt themselves with house-made fudge at the farmstand, make the acquaintance of farm animals, wander through a challenging corn maze, and more! The time to show up is between September 25 and October 31, 2024. It is closed on Tuesdays.

4. Wilderbee Farm - Port Townsend, Washington

It's Wilderbee Farms' simplicity that makes it one of my favorite patches to visit every year. Under ten minutes from the gorgeous Fort Worden State Park, this pared-back gem specializes in organic pumpkins. Though you won't find a food stand or pumpkin cannon here, Wilderbee offers diverting nature trails and the opportunity to feed its resident flock of sheep. When the farm opens the first week of October, adult guests can sip mead made from scratch from 12 to 5 o'clock each weekend.

5. Fall City Farms - Fall City, Washington

For many patches on this list, agro-tourism is a fairly recent enterprise. Fall City Farms is unique in that its sole mission has always been to connect local families with their food and help them make memories in the great outdoors. The farm's owners might've started off selling corn and pumpkins from a garage in 1991, but Fall City Farm is now located off the beautiful State Route 203. You'll love its picturesque, rural landscape. Explore the fields on weekends from September 30 to October 29, 2024.

6. Swans Trail Farms - Snohomish, Washington

The Krause family, who've owned Swans Trail Farms since 1984, were destined to steward one of the most popular pumpkin patches near Seattle. In 1997, after being named Snohomish County's Dairy Family of the Year, the family celebrated with an open house and invited the public to their idyllic land for a corn maze, live music, and ice cream. Over 4,000 people attended the festivities, and the rest, as they say, is history. Starting September 21 and going until October 31, 2024, wander the 50 acres of pumpkins, indulge in mouth-wateringly fresh apple cider donuts, and make friends with adorable barnyard critters.

7. Creek House Farm - Port Orchard, Washington

Any dedicated pumpkin patch peruser knows that farms get busy leading up to Halloween. For visitors who'd prefer to avoid the crowds, check out Creek House. This stunning farm raises over 20 varieties of organic, heirloom pumpkins and winter squash. Best of all, because the farm is only open by appointment, your experience will be intimate and peaceful. (Editor's Note: This farm is taking a break from fall festivities this year. Check in next year as it may resume.)

If you love wholesome pumpkin patches in Washington that Charlie Brown's Linus would approve of, check out one of these seven farms. What are your favorites? Tell us in the comments what you like about them. Can't choose? Pack up the car and embark on an autumn-themed road trip:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/washington/fall-foliage-road-trip-wa/