A Fall Day at Mortimer Farms: An Easy Family Trip From Phoenix
One thing we miss living in Phoenix is that real fall feeling, so a couple of years ago we took a day trip up to Mortimer Farms for their Pumpkin Fest & Corn Maze. I was actually pregnant with my daughter at the time, which makes looking back at these pictures even sweeter.
Mortimer Farms is about an hour and a half from Phoenix, making it an easy fall day trip when you want cooler weather, pumpkins, and a little break from the Valley.
Go Early… Especially If You Can Visit During the Week
We left Phoenix first thing in the morning and arrived right around opening. We also went during the week, which I would absolutely do again if your schedule allows.
Weekends can get much busier during fall, and arriving early made such a difference for us. We were able to walk around, take pictures and let our son enjoy the activities without dealing with huge crowds.
It can also be noticeably cooler than Phoenix, especially earlier in the day, so definitely check the weather before you leave. Layers are a good idea!
There Is SO Much for Kids to Do
I remember being surprised by how many activities there were for kids. It wasn’t somewhere we walked around for an hour, saw some pumpkins and left. We easily made a whole morning out of it.
There were bikes and tire activities, a corn maze, giant outdoor chess and plenty of space for kids to explore. They also had animals, including goats and pigs, which of course was a hit.
And then there are the pumpkins!
You can take a tractor ride out and pick your own pumpkin, which really gives you that fall experience that’s sometimes hard to find when you live in the Phoenix area.
The Views Are Part of the Experience
One of my favorite things about Mortimer Farms is actually the setting. The mountain views behind the farm are beautiful, especially when you’re walking through the pumpkin fields.
It feels completely different from Phoenix even though you’re only about an hour and a half away.
It’s one of those easy little Arizona day trips where you feel like you actually went somewhere without having to plan an entire weekend away.
You Can Still Be Back in Phoenix by the Afternoon
Going early also meant we didn’t have to give up our entire day.
We were able to do almost everything we wanted and were finished around 1 or 2 p.m. From there, you can head back toward Phoenix and still be home in time for a late lunch or an easy afternoon.
For families with younger kids, I actually love that. You get the fall outing and all the activities without everyone being completely exhausted by the end of the day.
And Don’t Leave Without the Apple Cider Donuts
This deserves its own section because I still remember them two years later: the apple cider donuts.
There are plenty of reasons we’re excited to go back, but leaving with apple cider donuts is definitely high on my list.
We’re Going Back This October
These photos are from our visit two years ago, and this October we’re finally heading back—this time with our daughter with us instead of in my belly.
I’ll be updating this post after our visit with new photos, anything that’s changed, and our favorite activities this year.
If you’re looking for an easy fall day trip from Phoenix with kids, Mortimer Farms is one I’d save for your fall Arizona list.
A few things to know before you go
Drive: About 1½ hours from Phoenix
Best time to arrive: Right around opening
Crowds: We had a great experience visiting on a weekday
Bring: Layers and comfortable walking shoes
Don’t miss: Pumpkin picking, the corn maze, animals—and the apple cider donuts
As an Amazon, Shein Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
