Bend, OR

A must for any family during the fall season here in Central Oregon is hitting up the Central Oregon Pumpkin Co. It is locally owned and nestled in among farmlands at 1250 NE Wilcox Ave. in Terrebonne, Oregon. Terrebonne is 20 miles (or a 30 minute drive) from Bend, just north of Redmond.

It is abound with activities for all ages. Younger kids love the wild zoo train, hay bale maze, pony rides and petting zoo. Older kids enjoy the pumpkin cannon and infamous corn maze. Every year the Central Oregon Pumpkin Co. chooses a new theme for the maze. Last year the theme was “Wizard of Oz” and you entered the maze through Dorothy’s house. This year, they chose “Pirates of the Caribbean” and really outdid themselves. If you have seen either of the recent movies starring Johnny Depp, you may remember the Black Pearl, the fictional pirate ship. The Central Oregon Pumpkin Co. reconstructed the ship using hay bales complete with a wooden plank deck, rails and masts…very impressive indeed

Other activities include horse-drawn wagon rides, the haunted barn, and various live music. However, do be aware, most activities require tickets and an entire day’s visit could become quite spendy if you don’t keep track as you go. Not to mention all the food and beverage available. This year it ranged from a bowl of chili to gourmet pizza and from soft drinks and bottled water to mochas and lattes.

Lets not forget the main attraction - Pumpkins! They have both U and We-Pick for a quarter a pound. Also available for an additional price are many different specialty pumpkins, gourds, indian corn, etc. for fall decorating.

The last two years we have gone as a family and it was a great time for all. But, do remember to wear or at least bring some warm clothing…it is the fall season in Central Oregon and the weather can change in a matter of minutes!