Every fall, our family circles a date on the calendar for one of our favorite New Mexico traditions: McCall’s Pumpkin Patch. If you’ve never been, it’s not just a quick stop to pick a pumpkin; it’s a full day of adventure, memories, and fall magic. Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make the most out of the experience, and today I’m sharing my best tips for families so you can enjoy it just as much as we do.
Buy Tickets in Advance (Seriously, Don’t Wait)
First things first: buy your tickets online ahead of time. They sell out fast, especially on weekends. If your schedule allows, I recommend going on a Friday. Not only will you avoid the heavy weekend crowds, but you’ll also get more breathing room to enjoy everything at your own pace. And no matter which day you choose, plan to arrive right when they open . . . you’ll thank yourself later.
Check out their hours and season calendar.
Dress for Comfort (and Photos!)
McCall’s is the kind of place you could spend the whole day exploring. That means comfort is key: think sneakers for running, climbing, and chasing kids across the jumping pillow. But don’t underestimate the New Mexico weather because it can be 70 and sunny one moment and windy or chilly the next, and you wouldn’t want the weather to be the reason you had to shorten your stay!
And while comfort is important, this is also the perfect spot for those seasonal family photos. Between the pumpkin displays, rustic barns, cornfields, and colorful play areas, the photo ops are endless. I love looking back at pictures from each year and seeing how much my boys have grown. Take all the pictures, mama, and make sure you are in some too!
Admission Includes a Lot of Activities
One of the best parts of McCall’s is how much you get with your ticket. The value is huge, especially for families. My kids can spend hours rotating between the playgrounds, ropes courses, corn maze, and jumping pillow. There are also farm animals to see, imaginative play in the little towns and castles, giant life-size games, and even hands-on educational activities. It’s not just entertainment; it’s creativity, movement, and learning all rolled into one.
And the best part? Most of these activities are free once you’re inside, so there’s no pressure to constantly pull out your wallet.
The Punch Card Hack
That said, there are some extras that you’ll probably want to splurge on, and here’s where my biggest money-saving tip comes in: buy a punch card. This simple little card gives you discounted access to activities like the apple cannon, gel blasters, and train rides. It even works for sweet treats like kettle corn or their famous apple cider slushes.
Not only does it save you money, but it also helps set boundaries with kids. Instead of the constant “Can we do this? Can we have that?” you can hand them the punch card and let them choose how to use it. It gives them a little independence while keeping spending under control.
Plan for a Full Day
McCall’s isn’t the kind of place you stop by for an hour or two; it’s a day trip! Pack snacks, bring water, and if your family prefers, pack a lunch. There are plenty of shaded spots and open areas where you can rest, refuel, and then jump right back into the fun. I’ve found that planning to stay the whole day helps us slow down and really enjoy everything without feeling rushed.
Make It a Family Tradition
What I love most about McCall’s is that it’s become more than just a fun outing; it’s a tradition for us. Each year looks a little different as my kids grow. One year, it’s all about the jumping pillow, the next it’s mastering the ropes course or testing their aim at the apple cannon. No matter what stage of life your family is in, there’s something magical about returning year after year and watching your kids discover it in new ways.
Before you go, here’s a reminder of what every mom should know.
- Buy tickets online early.
- If possible, go on a Friday.
- Arrive when they open.
- Dress in layers and comfy shoes.
- Bring your camera.
- Pack snacks or lunch if you want to save on food.
- Grab a punch card for extras and treats.
- Plan to stay all day and take it slow.
Every time we go, I leave with tired kids, a full heart, and more photos than I know what to do with. McCall’s Pumpkin Patch is more than just a pumpkin patch; it’s one of New Mexico’s best fall traditions, and one I hope your family gets to enjoy this season, too.
For more fall fun, check out our Ultimate Guide to Fall.
