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If you love everything about autumn, don't worry—there's still apple picking and maze exploring you and your family can enjoy this year. Take a break from virtual learning and head out on these adventures, while always making sure to keep six feet distance from others.
Apple fest and haunted hayrides | Every weekend this fall
One thing that never changes is apple picking at Eckert's Farm. You must buy your field access pass in advance to reserve your spot—access to the field has been reduced to avoid crowds. Normal Apple Fest activities like carnival and pony rides will take place at all three farms on Saturdays and Sundays. Starting Sept. 11 the Millstadt Farm will host Haunted Hay Rides after 7 pm on Friday and Saturday nights. Eckert's asks that you wear a mask while indoors and on their wagons. Belleville and Grafton farms have free admission, Millstadt Farm has an all-inclusive $15 per person ticket. All of Eckert's Farm locations: Belleville, Millstadt, and Grafton.
Broemmelsiek corn maze | Every day this fall
Get lost together in a completely free three-acre corn maze. The maze is part of St. Charles County's Broemmelsiek Park, formerly a 494-acre family farm. The park also has paved bike trails, fishing ponds, picnic areas, and a dog park. Masks are not required in St. Charles County Parks. Free. Broemmelsiek Park, 1795 Highway DD, Defiance.
Children's Zoo | All September
After a solid 51 year run, the Saint Louis Zoo has decided to close the Children's Zoo. You can say your goodbyes from now until the end of October when they shut the gates forever. The Zoo will temporarily replace the exhibit with three acres of animatronic dinosaurs while they plan a permanent and family-focused replacement exhibit. The Children's Zoo is free during its final days, however the indoor exhibit, shows, goats, and playground remain closed due to Covid-19 safety measures. You must wear a mask to visit the Zoo. Saint Louis Zoo, One Government Drive.
Sunflower and corn mazes | All September
After years of thrilling guests with a-MAZE-ing corn, Brookdale Farms has planted a giant sunflower maze. Sunflowers have a short bloom time, so plan to visit soon. Sunflowers are open 10 a.m.–6 p.m. daily from now until September 17. Daytime corn will be open 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Wednesday–Sunday starting September 11. Haunted corn will be open Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. to midnight starting September 11. Masks are optional as all activities are outdoors. Admission starts at $5, cash only. Brookdale Farms, 8004 Twin Rivers, Eureka.
St. Louis Renaissance Festival | Weekends starting September 19
Your favorite lords and ladies are masking up to entertain your family with a trip through the best parts of the Middle Ages. There will be jugglers, singers, and jousting knights on horseback—plus more than 75 artisans selling their wares and plenty of festival food. Masks for guests are suggested, but not required. Tickets start at $10.95. Rotary Park, 2577 West Meyer, Wentzville.
Corn maze and horse-drawn wagons | Daily starting September 12
Eagle Fork Farms invites your family out to the country for a day of farm fun. They have a giant corn maze, apple cannons, weekend tractor, and horse-drawn hayrides, pony rides, and gemstone mining. Admission is free, all activities are individually priced. Activities start at $3 each. Masks are optional as all activities are outdoors. 65 Eagle Fork, Moscow Mills.
Family movie night at Nine Mile Garden | Saturdays this fall
Bring your blanket and grab a socially distant picnic circle at Nine Mile Garden. The garden has a changing lineup of six or seven food trucks every night, with dinner service starting at 5 pm. Movies begin rolling at 7 p.m. In September they're showing family favorites from the ’80s. Admission is free, with no outside food or drink. Dog friendly. Masks are required while indoors or standing in line. Nine Mile Garden, 9375 Gravois, Affton.
