When the Pumpkin Spice lattes come out, that can only mean one thing – fall is around the corner! For us fall means it’s time for one of our favorite family traditions. For the past several years, we have made the 2 hour drive to McLeod Farms in McBee, South Carolina, Most people would not drive two hours to get pumpkins, but when you hear that a trip there is so much more than that, you’ll want to go!
So Much to Experience
From the moment you set foot on the farm, there’s an undeniable sense of warmth and excitement. Don’t confuse this farm with your local pumpkin patch. McLeod Farms is an actual year-round farm! The pumpkin patch is massive, but it’s not located right when you get out of your car. The first thing you will notice is the the hub of activity with a corn pit and an area with little ride on toys for the kiddos, special picture spots, the farmer’s market store, a restaurant, AND a antique museum! Oh, and I didn’t mention that they have a corn maze too!
Pumpkin Picking Fun
In order to get to the pumpkin patch (if you could even call the acres of land a patch!), you need to hop on board the wagon. The ride is part of the fun as it takes you through the fields of peach trees and other fruits and vegetables that they grow there. When you get off the wagon, there is a sign which shows you all the different types and colors of pumpkins that you can get. Yes, colors! And yes, they are legit and not painted! Adults can grab a pair of clippers and a wheelbarrow. Keep your family together (unless your kids are teens like ours). The fields are massive and you need to be careful to not jump or climb on top of the plants. Don’t forget to take a few pictures because it is always fun to compare them year after year-and Mom, make sure YOU get in the pictures! Don’t feel bad about asking someone to take your family picture. Moments and memories are EVERYTHING! Just don’t spend the whole time with your phone in your hand! You want to experience the fun too!
Now for the pumpkins! Thankfully, their prices are so good that we can usually pick several which allows our kids to pick their own. Make sure you are certain about the pumpkin you want. It’s such a sweet time being able to actually pick it yourself, and nothing is worse than seeing a bunch of discarded pumpkins that people left behind. Choose wisely! Once you find the one(s) you want, cut it off the stem ensuring that you only take enough for it to still have a stalk at the top.
Tip: Avoid carrying the pumpkin by the stalk as it can break and cause the pumpkin to spoil faster. Instead, always carry the pumpkin from underneath.
Load your pumpkins into the wheelbarrow and head back to the wagon for the ride back. The neat thing is that you can pay, put the pumpkins in the car, and then explore some more!
A Journey Through History
One of the things that make McLeod Farms unique is their antique museum. Stepping inside is like taking a walk through history, surrounded by antique farming equipment and artifacts that tell stories of a different era. It’s a wonderful way to spark conversations about the past and reflect on how things have evolved. It will also have you reminiscing about what your grandparents and parents had in their houses. Anyone remember jelly jars with cartoon characters on them? Our kids still love to hop on the farm equipment and check out all the vintage cars-which seems to be the most interesting to them at this point. .
Indulging in Seasonal Delights
The farm shop is a haven of fall flavors and aromas. The scent of freshly baked cobbler and warm pumpkin rolls fills the air. The jars of jams and other assorted items are always a special treat. Not to mention their ice cream!
Still hungry?
Big’s Meats & More is the place to grab a burger, chicken sandwich, sub, or chicken salad sandwich (my favorite!). Want to take home some fresh meats? They have an assortment of fresh Black Canyon Angus Beef, as well as pork. They also sell homemade chicken and beef pot pies, tomato pies, and all the desserts like our favorite, blackberry cobbler!
Creating Lasting Memories
Our annual trip to McLeod Farms is more than just an outing – it’s one of our favorite family times that we now call Adventure Saturdays. It’s part of our family story. Seeing how quickly time passes and our kids were growing up, we felt we needed to be intentional about spending special time together. A trip to McLeod Farm is our must do of the fall season. If you are local or visiting the area, I hope it will be yours too.
Why You Should Consider a Visit
If you’re seeking a way to infuse your fall with meaningful memories, I wholeheartedly recommend making McLeod Farms a part of your family traditions.It’s a reminder that the simple joys of fall and the love of family are what truly make this season special. Make sure to check their website or Facebook page for updates on the patch’s opening date and any inclement weather. Happy fall!
