In the Bay Area, corn and hay mazes start popping up in farm country right outside of the city in October. Even though most of these attractions are billed for kids, many of their biggest fans are adults. These labyrinths are perfect places to re-enact that scene from The Shining. Just don’t get so lost that you have to call 9–1–1 to get out.
Here are a few within a short distance* from SF.
Arata’s Pumpkin Farm in Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is Bay Area pumpkin country. You’ll find fields aplenty here, but at Arata Farms, you’ll also find a huge, freaky-looking minotaur guarding its famous hay maze. There’s also a corn field maze, a pumpkin patch, a haunted house, pony rides, and a petting zoo for the wee ones.
G&M Farms Cornfield Maze in Livermore
This six-acre farm in the East Bay has a cornfield maze full o’ twists, turns, and dead ends. While you’re there, pick up some fresh veggies and seasonal decorations for your upcoming fall dinner party. Ankle biters will love the pony rides, Cow Train, and cute farm animals to ogle.
Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch in Santa Rosa
The Patch is a family-owned operation that has a seven-acre corn maze (with one short and one long route). If you decide on the shorter route, you can spend the rest of your time picking out pumpkins in their expansive eight-acre field, take a hay ride, or get your kid on a pony.
Joan’s Farm in Livermore
After you go through the giant corn maze at Joan’s Farm, you can pick out a pumpkin and then pretend you’re in a farming town from the olden times. Attractions here include an old chuck wagon, an antique farm equipment museum, adorable farm denizens, and lots more G-rated fun.
Uesugi Farms in Morgan Hill
Although it’s billed as family-friendly, Kayla’s Corn Maze at Uesugi Farms is a two-acre attraction that might be too complicated for the little ones. The site warns that children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. If the kids aren’t havin’ it, take ’em on one of the trains or hay rides that the farm also offers.
Dell’Osso Farms in Lathrop
The family who runs this Dell’Osso Farms plans elaborate corn mazes every year. Until 2007, each of the labyrinths was made using nothing but human hands and farm equipment. These days, they’re upping their technique and their technology with some intricate cornfield designs. Check out this year’s maze map. A-maze.
If I missed any corn or hay mazes, feel free to chime in down below in the comments section!
*Although some of these aren’t far away, expect traffic, especially in places like Half Moon Bay, where people come out in droves during this season.
Main image of Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch; G&M Farms photo by Pengrin
