Visiting Tate Farms in Meridianville this fall
When fall rolls around in North Alabama, there are a few traditions we just can’t miss like sipping apple slushies, walking around Maple Hill Cemetery, and making the trip out to Tate Farms. This spot has been a fall favorite for Rocket City families for years, and for good reason.
So Much to See & Do
Carousel (aka the Dairy-Go-Round)
This isn’t your average carousel. Tate Farms is home to the only dairy-go-round in North America, custom-built in Italy and shipped just for them. Riders climb aboard goats, cows, sheep, and more — it’s one of those “only at Tate” experiences.
Little Farmer Playground
Built by Little Tikes, this playground is loaded with slides, tunnels, climbers, and sensory toys. There’s plenty of seating nearby, so parents can actually relax while kids run wild.
Sensory Barn & Slides
The Sensory Barn combines farm fun with hands-on learning — and yes, those two giant 40-foot slides are just as fast as they look.
Animal Encounters
Cows, ponies, sheep, rabbits, and the cutest fuzzy donkey — Tate Farms makes it easy for kids to get close to farm animals. (There are handwashing and sanitizing stations nearby, so you can head to lunch without smelling too much like a goat.)
Hay Art
Every year the team gets creative with giant hay bales. Past displays have included snails, raccoons, and even a skunk. They make the best photo ops, so keep your camera ready.
Pumpkin Party Options
If you have a child with a birthday in the month of October, you can have a party there! Rent space at their pavilion and get a three hour adorable party package. I saw a few when we were there and really thought that was a cool idea. Here’s more info on their Corporate Party and Event Rentals.
Big Kid Fun, Too
Between the jumping pillows (one just for littles), the pedal carts, a cotton jump, and a pumpkin cannon that blasts gourds half a mile into the sky, there’s plenty to keep older kids and adults entertained, too.
Corn cribs (giant sandboxes but with corn kernels) are always a crowd favorite, and the Hay Bale Maze is just the right level of challenge.
Just a short distance away is the little choo-choo corn train ride. The line can get a bit long for this on busy days so make sure your kiddos are too hungry before jumping in line because hangry kids + waiting = no so fun
Pumpkin Picking
Admission includes a hayride out to the pumpkin patch, where you can pick your own. Pumpkins are sold separately (last we checked, about $7 each, any size). Wheelbarrows are available to help you cart them back.
👉 Pro tip: Save pumpkin picking for last — after all the slides, playgrounds, and animals, no one wants to carry a big pumpkin all day.
Food & Treats
Bring your appetite because Tate Farms serves up roasted corn, burgers, wings, pizza, pumpkin pie, kettle corn, and their famous apple slushies. There’s even a big-screen TV in the pavilion for football Saturdays.
Don’t Forget
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Comfortable shoes (hayrides and slides can be slick)
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A charged phone for allll the cute photo ops
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A little extra cash for treats or face painting on Saturdays
- Accessibility-wise, most families report the farm is doable with strollers and wheelchairs, though grassy and gravel areas can be tricky.
Updated with 2025 Information
Tate Farms Cotton Pickin’ Pumpkin Details
Location: 8414 Moores Mill Road Meridianville, AL 35759
2025 Dates: September 24 – November 1
Hours: September 24 1-7 PM | September 25 & 26 1-8 PM | September 27 9 AM-9 PM | October 1, 6-8, 13, 15, 22 & 29 1-7 PM | October 2 & 3, 9 & 10, 16 & 17, 23 & 24, 30 1-8 PM | October 4, 11, 18 & 25 9 AM-9 PM | November 1 Pumpkin Destruction Day 9 AM-9 PM
Admission: $20 (ages 2+) per person | season passes $50-60 per person; purchase online
More Info: Website
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