October is pumpkin-picking season across Central Arkansas, and families have several options for trading an ordinary afternoon for hayrides, farm animals and fall photographs.

Whether you are taking grandchildren out for a weekend or planning a day with friends, these three farms offer different versions of the autumn tradition.

Motley's Pumpkin Patch | Little Rock

At 13724 Sandy Ann Drive in Little Rock, Motley's combines pumpkins with tractor rides, a cow train, farm animals, play areas, a maze and a giant slide.

Visitors can choose pumpkins in different sizes and shapes, along with gourds and seasonal decorations.

Motley's lists its 2026 pumpkin season as September 26 through November 1.

Public hours are Thursday and Friday from 1 to 5 p.m., with entry closing at 4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with entry closing at 5 p.m.

The farm does not allow pets or professional photo shoots, and pumpkins are priced individually.

This is a good choice for families seeking a full day of activities without traveling far from Little Rock.

Schaefers and Collins Pumpkin Patch | Mayflower

Located at 864 Lollie Road in Mayflower, this seasonal farm offers pumpkin picking, hayrides, train rides, farm animals, hay tunnels and room for children to explore.

Visitors can also find seasonal produce and fall decorating supplies.

Published hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m.

Unscheduled weekday visitors are encouraged to arrive after 1 p.m. because school and daycare groups visit in the mornings.

The farm lists a $10 hayride-and-pumpkin option, a $3 hayride-only option and a $4 train ride, but confirm prices before visiting.

Families planning a rainy-day visit should call ahead because activities can be affected by conditions.

Roseberry Farms | Benton

South of Little Rock at 12223 Highway 9 in Benton, Roseberry Farms offers another opportunity to enjoy a relaxed outdoor fall tradition.

The pumpkin patch includes homegrown pumpkins, hayrides, farm animals, a large slide and family activity areas.

The farm currently advertises $10 admission for visitors ages two and older, including its pumpkin patch activities.

During September and October, its published public weekend hours are Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Roseberry makes a particularly convenient option for readers in Benton, Bryant and Saline County.

Make your pumpkin outing a good one

Fall farms differ in what their admission includes, and purchasing a pumpkin may cost extra.

Check each farm's latest schedule, prices, weather updates and accessibility information before leaving home.

Comfortable shoes, water and a little extra time can make an afternoon around fields, pathways and play areas easier to enjoy.

Some of the best autumn memories begin with a simple decision to get outside together.

For 501 Daily readers, these three locations offer a friendly reminder that fall fun can still be found close to home.