Best Manhattan-Area Pumpkin Patches 2020

MANHATTAN, IL — Not even pumpkin patches are escaping the coronavirus in 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic means some of the Chicago area's pumpkin patches have had to adjust hours, regulations and activities as they head into fall. But pumpkin picking — and other fall fun like apple orchards — can still happen with safety measures and social distancing in place.

Fortunately, the coronavirus has only changed — not completely closed — your favorite pumpkin patch and its offerings this fall. Below is a growing list of some of our favorite pumpkin patches and places to get pumpkins near Manhattan.

Crosswind Farms

• Address: 14435 Manhattan Monee Rd., Manhattan, IL
• Season opening date: Front shed for fall decor starting Friday (Sept. 25). Masks required in the Market Shed. If Crosswind Farms is busy and people are unable to social distance outdoors, masks will be required.
• Hours of operation: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Market Shed hours); animals out right now 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, until busier in the fall and in there is bad weather or too muddy.
• Attractions: Crosswind Farms announced they will not have any kids activities this year (corn pit, goat feeding and scarecrow stuffing) due to the coronavirus. This will reduce large crowds that gather around the goats and corn pit. Crosswind Farms asks that you do not let kids climb on equipment (tractors and equipment) as they don't want them to get hurt. No barn tours this year, and guests are asked to please not feed the animals as goats get their heads stuck or fight over food, and an emergency vet bill starts at $200.
• Pumpkins and produce: Pumpkins, honey, Concord grapes (with seeds) and more for sale. There are no apples due to a late frost that killed them/the buds. Aronia berry is available as you-pick, and not in the Market Shed. Crosswind Farms advises everyone to check on fruit amounts right before you make the trip.
• Cost: Contact farm for more info.
• Phone number: 708-567-9090
• Website: Crosswind Farms Facebook page

Jim Melka Landscaping & Garden Center

• Address: 11606 179th Street, Mokena, IL
• Season opening date: Open! Outdoor cashiers, contactless delivery, phone orders and curbside pickup available. Guests are asked to wear a mask and social distance.
• Hours of operation: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday,
• Attractions: Keep checking for updates on annual fall events.
• Pumpkins and produce: Pumpkins, mums, plenty of plants and more.
• Cost: Contact business for more information.
• Phone number: 708-349-6989
• Website: jimmelkalandscaping.com

More: Best New Lenox-Area Pumpkin Patches 2020

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More fall fun:

• Register For Scarecrows On Parade In Manhattan
• Trick-Or-Treating A Go In Manhattan; Can Be 'Accomplished Safely'
• Fall Foliage Peak Map 2020: When Autumn Leaves Are Best In Illinois
  
• Fall Fun Amid COVID-19: Apple Orchards, Fall Fests Reopen

If we missed your favorite pumpkin patch, be sure to share it with readers in the comments section.