Why Pumpkintown USA is an Awesome Halloween Activity

Pumpkintown USA is a must-visit for Connecticut families. Over 25,000 people come each fall to see the unique creations. Visiting Pumpkintown is a delightful mix of outdoor activity and Halloween fun. It combines a drive through Pumpkintown Forest and a walk around the Village. You'll see over 100 of the friendliest pumpkinheads waiting for you, each with a hand painted smile.

Best of all, Pumpkintown USA is a non-spooky environment. It is enjoyable for all ages and those who aren't out to get scared (my family included!) There are no scary scenes to frighten your little ones. 

Can pumpkinheads get cold feet? Find out at Pumpkintown USA.

Must See Things at Pumpkintown USA

Since opening in 1993, Pumpkintown has enchanted Connecticut families during the Halloween season. And there is plenty to see on a visit! Be sure and print up Trail Games in advance so you can hand them out to the whole family.

The Ride at Pumpkintown Forest

Head to “The Ride” at Pumpkintown Forest first. Buy a trail treat package, pass out Trail Games, and roll down all the windows. Scenes are set up equally on both sides to make everyone happy. Pumpkinheads are staged at places such as the country store, the school, and a ski mountain. Look out for fun creatures hiding among the trees. The Ride at Pumpkintown Forest is about 1 mile long and will take about 20 minutes.

 
Drive through Pumpkintown Forest to see the friendliest pumpkinheads at work. 

Stroll Through the Pumpkintown Village

The entrance to Pumpkintown Village is located through the Harvest store. While walking through the store, grab a postcard to mail while visiting the Pumpkintown Village Post Office. Your postcard will be stamped “Pumpkintown USA.”! Enjoy seeing all manner of pumpkinheads and learning their fun names. You can even walk into unique places, such as MacPumpkin, with tons of photo opportunities throughout. On weekends, face painting, balloon animals, and Sling-a-Ding are offered. Don't leave the Village without experiencing Sling-a-Ding. It's pure fun for all ages!

Stop at the Harvest Store

The store is filled with fall goodies, from decorations and pumpkins, to mums and food (like fresh apple cider donuts!) Pumpkin sippers with apple cider are a must for the car ride home.

Pumpkintown USA - Know Before You Go

Reservations are required for the ride through the forest. Reservations aren't required for the village, but they are highly recommended (especially on weekends) to avoid long lines.

Bring cash. Many offerings are cash-only, such as snack packages (with delicious apple cider donuts, apple cider, popcorn, and water combos), walk-in admission, Sling-a-Ding, and the Donut Shack. 

 
Sit in as the pumpkinheads gather for a Village meeting at Pumpkintown U.S.A. 

There is also a garden store, perfect if you've decided to start your own pumpkin patch next year!

Visiting Pumpkintown USA

Pumpkintown USA is easily accessible from Route 66. East High Street is well marked, and there are plenty of free parking options.

Pumpkintown USA is open 7 days a week through Halloween, from 10 am to 5 pm (weather permitting). Admission to the Village is $7 per person; kids 2 and under are free. Expect to spend about an hour in the Village. The ride through the forest costs $25 per car. 

Painted pumpkins, Fall decor, and more–which makes it hard to pick! 

For more information and online reservations, visit Pumpkintown USA's website. 

Photo Credit: all photos are courtesy of the author.

Originally published September 2022