A guide to 2024 Colorado pumpkin patches, corn mazes and fall fun galore

Elk are bugling in Rocky Mountain National Park, juicy apples are waiting to be picked at Colorado orchards and golden yellow aspen leaves are dancing in the high country — sure signs that autumn has officially arrived.

What better way to usher in this new season than to get out and explore the Centennial State’s many pumpkin patches and corn mazes? Before your weekends totally fill up, scope out this list of quintessential fall activities.

A quick note: We did our best to include as many pumpkin patches, corn mazes and other fall happenings as we could, but we recognize that this list may not be complete. In addition, please check each venue’s website for the most up-to-date information.

BENNETT

Mile High Farms: Just 30 or so minutes from Denver, find 11 acres featuring two corn mazes, a petting zoo, antique tractor hayride, pumpkin patch, corn pits, playground, concessions and more. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sat.-Sun. from Sept. 28 until Oct. 27. Cost: $13 for kids ages 5-12; $18 for adults ages 13-59; $15 for seniors, military, first responders and veterans; free for kids 4 and under. Pumpkins available for purchase. 11 Cavanaugh Road, Bennett, 720-560-0730; milehighfarms.com

BROOMFIELD

Rock Creek Farm: Meet farm animals, pick the perfect pumpkin and venture into the hay bale maze or one of the three corn mazes on this working farm. Hours: Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Sept. 28 to Oct. 31 Cost: Free farm admission Tuesday-Thursday, with the option to purchase $8 corn maze tickets on site; $10 farm admission Friday-Monday, which includes the corn maze. Free for kids 3 and under every day. Pumpkins available for purchase. 2005 S. 112th St., Broomfield; 303-465-9565; rockcreekfarm.com

CAÑON CITY

Diana’s Pumpkin Patch: Activities include a maze, hay slide, duck races, climbing rope, hay ride, corn bine, horse bouncers, photo booth barn and pumpkin field. Hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sun. from mid-September through Oct. 31. Cost: $15 per person; free for kids 5 and under; $13 on select military days and customer appreciation days; $38 season pass. Pumpkins, gourds and decor available for purchase. 1649 Poplar Ave., Cañon City, 719-821-9133; dianaspumpkinpatch.com

COLORADO SPRINGS

Long Neck Pumpkin Farm: Glide down the hay bale slide, climb into the sheep herder’s wagon, take a hayride and check out the farmer’s market. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fri.-Sun. from Sept. 21-Oct. 27. Cost: $18, free for kids 23 months and under. Pumpkins available for purchase. 7595 California Drive, Colorado Springs, 719-551-0525; longneckpumpkinfarm.com

Miners’ Pumpkin Patch: Support the nonprofit Western Museum of Mining and Industry while also celebrating autumn. Enjoy the vintage cider press, gold panning, machine demos, hayrides, food trucks, hay maze, sack races and more. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Saturday in October. Cost: $11 in advance, $13 at the door, free for kids 3 and under. Pumpkins available for purchase. Western Museum of Mining and Industry, 225 North Gate Blvd., Colorado Springs, 719-488-0880; wmmi.org

DENVER

Glow at the Gardens: See the Denver Botanic Gardens on York Street come to life after dark with hand-carved pumpkins, live performers and lights. Hours: 6-9 p.m. Oct. 22-27. Cost: $26-$32 for nonmembers; $24-$30 for members; $24-$30 for military; $28-$30 for students; free for kids 2 and under. Timed tickets must be purchased in advance.

Glow Before Dark: Can’t make it to Glow at the Gardens? Visit the York Street location of the Denver Botanic Gardens during the day instead to see spooky scenes like a graveyard, a field of scarecrows and skeleton displays. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 19-21 and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 22-27. Cost: Included with daytime general admission, which is $15.75 for nonmember adults; $12 for military and seniors 65 and up; $11.50 for students and kids ages 3-15; and free for members and kids 2 and under. 1007 York St., Denver, 720-865-3500; botanicgardens.org/events

Pumpkin Harvest Festival at Four Mile Historic Park: Spend the day enjoying live music and performances, munching on apple cider donuts, panning for gold, watching blacksmithing demonstrations and more. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 12-13. Cost: $22 for adults; $17 for kids ages 4-12; $45 for VIP package; $25 to build your own scarecrow. Prices go up Oct. 7.

Also at Four Mile Historic Park: Spirits & Spirits, a one-night, 21+ event featuring cocktails, drag bingo, performances, crafts and more. Hours: 6-11 p.m. on Oct. 26. Cost: $30 for nonmembers; $25 for members; $70-$75 VIP packages. Prices go up Oct. 20. 715 S. Forest St., Denver; 720-865-0800. fourmilepark.org/pumpkin-harvest-festival

ELLICOTT

Fall Fest Pumpkin Patch at Wishing Star Farm: Enjoy the hay slide, tire swings, corn bins, horseshoes, petting zoo, barrel train rides and more. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays for general public; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for groups, field trips by reservations and special events on most weekdays Sept. 24-Oct. 30. Cost: $14 for 4 and up; $12 for seniors 62 and up; free for kids three and under. Discounts available for groups and families; Military and first responders save 10% on Oct. 5-6. Season passes available. Pumpkins and add-on activities available for purchase. 24024 Highway 94, Ellicott, 719-244-7252; wishingstarfarm.com

ERIE

Fall Festival at Anderson Farms: Check out the 25-acre corn maze, barrel train, jump pad, pedal carts and trikes, hay bale pull, combine slide, farm animals and more. Hop on a wagon for a ride to the 25-acre pumpkin patch. Pumpkins available for purchase. Hours: Varies depending on the day from Sept. 25-Nov. 2; closed on Tuesdays. Cost: $17 for timed entry, $27 for anytime entry (date specific) Monday-Thursday; $29 for timed entry, $39 for anytime entry (date specific) Friday-Sunday; free for kids 3 and under; $99 for a season pass.

Terror in the Corn at Anderson Farms: See if you’ve got what it takes to make it through this spooky, mile-long attraction, which kicks off after the sun goes down. Hours: 7-10 p.m. Thursdays and Sundays, 7-11p.m. Fridays and Saturdays from Sept. 27-Nov. 2. Cost: $40-$44 for timed entry; $55-$59 for quick passes; $140 for platinum pass; admission to Fall Festival is included. 6728 County Road 3¼, Erie, 303-828-5210; andersonfarms.com and terrorinthecorn.com

ESTES PARK

Pumpkins & Pilsners Festival: Support the nonprofit Estes Park Education Foundation while having fun at this one-day bash, which includes food trucks, live music, pony rides, air tattoos, local craft beer and more. Hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Oct. 5. Cost: Free admission. Pumpkins available for purchase. Bond Park, 170 MacGregor Ave., Estes Park; epeducationfoundation.org/pumkins-and-pilsners

Halloween Haunted Forest: Don your best spooky costume and wander through this family-friendly haunted forest. Hours: 7-10 p.m. Oct. 26. Cost: Free, $5 suggested donation. YMCA of the Rockies, 2515 Tunnel Road, Estes Park; ymcarockies.org

FRUITA

Moon Farm Pumpkin Patch: Meet cute animals at the petting zoo, wind your way through the straw maze, relax on a hay ride and pick out the perfect pumpkin to take home and carve. Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily from Sept. 29-Oct. 31. Cost: $7 suggested donation per person 4 and up. Pumpkins available for purchase. 1360 18½ Road, Fruita, 970-261-1113; moonfarm.net

GRAND JUNCTION

Studt Farms Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze: Explore the corn mazes, climb to the top of Hay Mountain, ride the barrel train, race around in a pedal cart and so much more. Hours: Varies depending on the day from Sept. 28-Oct. 27, closed Mondays. Cost: $22-$48 for weekends; $12 weekdays; $74-$97 season passes; free for kids 2 and under; group rates available. Additional fees for some activities. Pumpkins available for purchase. 21½ and I½ Road, Grand Junction, 970-305-9006; studtspumpkinpatchandcornmaze.com

HUDSON

Mazzotti Farms Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze: Take the family through the 10-acre, scare-free corn maze, pick out a pumpkin, meet animals at the petting zoo and play games. Hours 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every weekend in October. Cost: $20 per person, which includes one pumpkin; free for kids under 2; $50 to make a scarecrow. Additional pumpkins available for purchase. 24120 Weld County Road 8, Hudson, 303-536-4089; mazzottifarms.com

LAFAYETTE

Cottonwood Farms: Get in the fall spirit at Cottonwood Farms, which has a corn maze, a straw maze, vintage farm equipment, farm animals and more. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Sept. 21-Oct.31. Cost: $8 admission for adults, plus $5 wagon rides; admission and wagon rides free for seniors 65 and up and kids 5 and under. Pumpkins, winter squash and decor available for purchase. 10600 Isabelle Road, Lafayette, 720-890-4766; cottonwoodfarms.com

LASALLE

Fall Festival at Fritzler Farm Park: This popular Weld County spot has corn mazes, pedal go-carts, a beer garden, a slide mountain, tons of photo opps and more. Hours: Select dates Sept. 15-Oct. 27, timed entry tickets. Cost: $24.95-$41.95 online, $34.95-$51.95 at the gate. Additional fees for some activities.

Scream Acres at Fritzler Farm Park: Do you dare? Test your mettle at this spooky, immersive experience (which is not recommended for kids under 13). Hours: Select dates Sept. 21-Oct. 27. Cost: $39.95 general admission, $59.95 VIP admission. Ticket includes access to some Fall Festival attractions. Additional fees for some activities. 20861 County Road 33, LaSalle, 970-737-2129; fritzlermaze.com and fritzlerscreamacres.com

LITTLETON

Pumpkin Festival at Chatfield Farms: This three-day bash at the Chatfield Farms location of the Denver Botanic Gardens includes a 10-acre pumpkin patch, a corn maze, artisan booths, live music, food trucks, an antique tractor exhibit, photo booths and more. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4p.m. Oct. 11-13. Timed entry tickets, must purchase online in advance. Cost: $12-$18 for nonmembers; $10-$16 for members, military and students; free for kids 2 and under. Additional fees for some activities. Pumpkins available for purchase.

Corn Maze at Chatfield Farms: Also at the the Chatfield Farms location of the Denver Botanic Gardens, this year’s 7-acre pumpkin patch has a Colorado wildlife theme with bears, moose, mountain lions and other creatures. View it from the 15-foot-tall bridge, or explore it on foot. There’s a corn mini-maze for kids under the age of 10. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fri.-Sun. Sept. 20-Oct. 27. Cost: $12-$18 for nonmembers; $10-$16 for members, military and students; free for kids 2 and under. Timed entry tickets, must purchase online in advance. Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms, 8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Road, Littleton, 720-865-3501; botanicgardens.org/events

Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns at Hudson Gardens: Marvel at thousands of illuminated, hand-carved pumpkins, enjoy a sweet treat at the s’mores stations and take lots of family photos. Hours: Select nights through Nov. 2. Cost: $23.99+ for adults and $18.99+ for kids ages 3-12 for general admission line; $38.99+ to skip the line; group rates available; ticket pricing is variable and will increase closer to selected date. 6115 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton. 720-802-0006 or denverhelp@magicofthejackolanterns.com; magicofthejackolanterns.com

LONGMONT

Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Ranch: Take a leisurely stroll through the pumpkin patch, shop the produce market and enjoy a picnic lunch. On the weekends, you can do all those things, plus ride the dragon roller coaster, glide down the fire truck slide, take a pony ride and so much more. Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily from Sept. 26-Oct. 30; carnival activities on weekends only. Cost: Free admission; fees for à la carte activities. 9059 Ute Highway/CO 66, Longmont; rockymtnpumpkinranch.com

MONUMENT

Colorado Pumpkin Patch at Colorado Kids Ranch: Spend a festive day on this 40-acre farm, which has jumping pillows, large-scale games, slides, an animal petting area and more. Hours: Various dates and times from Sept. 18-Nov. 2., check the website for calendar. Cost: $16-$20 per person; $14-$17 for seniors 65 and up, active/retired military and first responders; $50 for a season pass. Additional fees for some activities. Pumpkins available for purchase. 2205 E Hwy 105, Monument, 719-799-6708; coloradopumpkinpatch.net

PLATTEVILLE

Fall Harvest Festival at Miller Farms: Learn what life is like on a real working farm with a visit to Miller Farms, where you can meander through a corn maze, enjoy a picnic lunch and check out antique tractors, among other activities. Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through mid-November. Cost: Free admission, $18-$28 per person for hayride into the 180-acre field; free for kids 4 and under. Group rates and homeschool days available. Veggies and pumpkins available for purchase. 13912 CR 19, Platteville, 970-785-6133; millerfarms.net

THORNTON

Maize in the City: Built into a 40-acre corn field, this outdoor attraction has been attracting Colorado families since 2001. Activities include a 20-acre corn maze, a mini maze, sand art, bouncers, face painting, a barrel train and so much more. Hours: Various dates and times from Sept. 21-Oct. 31, check the website for calendar. Cost: Free admission; fees for à la carte activities. 10451 McKay Road, Thornton; maizeinthecity.com

Read more at DenverPost.com

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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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I Asked an Organizer for the Best Way to Store Seasonal Decor, and She Had 3 Clever Ideas (Just in Time for Fall!)

As the last few months of the year near, I enter what I lovingly call my seasonal decor era.

As soon as Sept. 1st rolls in, I know that it’s time to transition my home from summer to fall, which then slowly turns from fall to holiday. It’s truly the most wonderful time of year in my opinion, but admittedly, I cringe a bit once it’s time to sift through my seasonal decor. 

It resides in big plastic tubs, which works just fine, but it makes finding specific items challenging. Not to mention the seasonal decor I know I’ve outgrown but am not sure what to do with, gets all mixed in with the ones I want to keep. 

Just like any other space, decluttering and organizing seasonal decor will make your life at home so much easier. I chatted with Natalie Ron of Swoon Spaces, who shared all of her seasonal decor organizing tips and hacks, so you can declutter just in time for fall. 

Before you organize, do a thorough edit.

Organizing your decor is only helpful when you have items that you use and love. When Ron works with clients, the first step for any organizational project is to do a thorough edit. Take the time to assess what you have and create piles for items to keep, donate, and discard. “Think about what you want to manage moving forward,” Ron says. “Anything you keep needs a place to be stored.” 

Keep in mind many thrift stores are happy to take seasonal decor donations, especially during this time of year. Once you have all of the items you’d like to keep, you can decide how you’d like to store them, depending on your space. “Definitely organize by holiday if you can,” Ron says. “You can organize by shelf, like one shelf for Halloween, next shelf for Christmas or Hanukkah, or you can organize by container.” 

Find storage solutions that are unique to your space.

As someone who lives in a small space with limited storage, seasonal decor is sprinkled everywhere from the linen closet, the coat closet, and even the bedroom closet. It’s not that we have a ton of it, it’s just that some of it is large and oddly shaped — specifically our faux Christmas tree, the tree collar, and Easter baskets. Ron assured me that every space is unique, and making it work in your home is the most important thing. “Fit decor where it fits! Organizing these items is not a perfect science, so we do our best with the space we have,” she shares.  

With that said, decide where you’d like to store your decor. A garage or an attic is ideal if you have them, but don’t worry if you live in a smaller space — you just need to be a bit more creative. “For smaller homes like apartments with minimal storage, utilize behind the door or under the bed for seasonal decor so they don’t take up ‘prime real estate’ for items you need more readily,” Ron recommends. If you’re really short on space, Ron suggests putting all of your decor in one bin, instead of separating holidays into different bins. “Just make sure to label all your holiday decor within each bin so you don’t waste time looking for things later,” she says.

Consider specialty storage solutions.

Most of my seasonal decor resides in big plastic tubs, which is a great choice according to Ron, as long as the bins are clearly labeled. “Labeling everything is key!” she exclaims. If you can, label the contents with your bin as well, to make finding decor easy. If you’re in the market for new storage bins, Ron recommends grabbing your tape measurer before purchasing. 

“Make sure the container is close to the exact measurements needed to fit the shelf or closet you’re placing it in so you’re maximizing your space utility,” she shares. It’s a great note, as one of my extra large bins does have some dead space within it. Getting a smaller plastic tub to replace it is on my list!

Certain decor pieces may require their specialty storage, like ornaments or string lights. I have string lights that are stuffed into a reusable grocery bag which is a low-key nightmare, and Ron suggested a holiday light storage organizer instead.

Other specialty storage solutions she recommends are ornament organizers, gift-wrapping stations, wreath protectors, and Christmas tree bags. Assess your space and your items, then decide accordingly. Once everything is organized and clearly labeled, the joy of bringing out your seasonal decor will simply grow. Happy organizing!

Read more at ApartmentTherapy.com

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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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The Hottest Housing Season Isn’t Behind Us: These Are the 7 Best Cities To Buy a Home this Fall

Timing is everything—and that is particularly true when it comes to buying a home.

The dream? Drop into the market when prices, mortgage rates, and competition from other buyers is low—and then snag a large, move-in ready home in a desirable area for a sweet deal.

The reality? Today’s real estate market is highly competitive and highly expensive—and many homebuyers are having to settle, or drop out of the market entirely.

So when is the best time to buy a home? Well, for certain markets, right now actually. There are places where buyers have the upper hand—or, at the very least, the out-of-control bidding wars have calmed down and buyers have a bit more time to make up their minds. The economics team at Realtor.com® found the markets where the optimal time to purchase a home is still ahead.

Fortunately, our data specialists have been grappling with this question for years by tracking buyer-friendly market conditions for every week of the year. They looked at median home list prices; the number of homes for sale; the number of new “fresh” listings; how long a home is on the market before it sells; homebuyer demand based on the number of listing views received on Realtor.com; and the number of price reductions.

The Realtor.com team looked at the best individual weeks to buy a home in the 50 largest metropolitan areas. (Metros include the main city and surrounding towns, suburbs, and smaller urban areas.)

“This year’s market has slowed considerably compared to years past, a welcomed shift for buyers,” Realtor.com senior economic analyst Hannah Jones wrote in the latest “Best Time to Buy” report.

“In many markets, homes are spending more time on the market than in the last few years, meaning buyers may find sellers more flexible than during the red-hot pandemic market,” she wrote. “Still-high mortgage rates mean that the typical buyer would still pay more as a monthly payment for a median-priced home compared to last year, but the relentless climb in prices has finally come to a halt.”

By examining data from 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022 (excluding 2020 due to COVID-19 anomalies) and comparing it with 2023, the team pinpointed the first week of October as the optimal time to buy this year. Buyers who braved the market could expect a wider selection of homes for sale, fewer competing offers, and savings of over $15,000 compared with the summer peak for a median-priced home of $445,000.

However, real estate is local. In some parts of the country, the best time to buy is in the rearview; in others, it is still coming up.

In a handful of markets, the most favorable conditions for buyers actually occur later in the year, defying conventional wisdom that the housing market slows down as the weather cools.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the seven major metropolitan areas where late fall and winter offer the best conditions for homebuyers.

1. Louisville, KY

Best week to buy: Nov. 5–11
Median list price: $316,358

In the heart of the Bluegrass State, Louisville offers a unique blend of Southern charm and urban sophistication. And if you’re looking to score a real estate deal, mark your calendar for the first week of November.

Louisville tops our list with the biggest rate of price reductions during this optimal week, when compared with an average week for the area. Sellers here are highly motivated to close deals during this time of the year.

Couple that with 20% more active listings than the average week in Louisville, and you’ve got a buyer’s buffet.

And if you’re worried about competition, don’t be. Views per property are down a staggering 33% compared with peak times, making this the opportune moment to snag your dream home in the land of bourbon and horse racing.

The vast majority of homes for sale in the city proper are single-family homes, but buyers can still find condos and townhomes. This four-bedroom, two-bathroom Cape Cod with a sunroom is on the market for $259,000.

2. Phoenix, AZ

Best week to buy: Nov. 5–11
Median list price: $532,000

The Phoenix metro, affectionately referred to as the Valley of the Sun, includes a smattering of cities from Scottsdale to Glendale and Anthem to Chandler. This time of the year draws snowbirds from the chilly north, but it’s also the prime time season for real estate.

Around this time of year, buyers drawn by the warm winter weather start heading to Phoenix.

“What happens in the first week of November in Arizona?” asks Kristy Ryan, a Realtor® at Re/Max Fine Properties in Scottsdale. “It’s heaven. It’s like 82 degrees. We’re getting ready to head into the best eight months of the year where it’s 80 degrees every day, sunny and beautiful.”

The first week of November is a unique window of opportunity here, with 28% more new listings than an average week—the highest on our list.

This four-bedroom, three-bathroom brick house is on the market for just under $585,5000. Buyers who don’t need as much space can check out this three-bedroom, two-bathroom new construction for just under $400,000.

3. Charlotte, NC

Best week to buy: Nov. 5–11
Median list price: $425,000

Charlotte, the Queen City, has become a crown jewel of the South, with booming tech and financial industries. It’s also home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the headquarters of Fortune 500 companies like Bank of America and Lowe’s. The metro also includes nearby Concord and Gastonia.

Charlotte offers a royal opportunity for buyers in the first full week of November.

Active listings are up by 18% compared with the average week, and price reductions hover around 1.2%.

The city’s diverse neighborhoods, from the historic Fourth Ward, where buyers can snag condos in gleaming towers or lower-rise brick complexes, to the artsy NoDa, where there are smaller cottages and Cape Cods for sale along with brand-new townhomes, offer a range of options for every kind of buyer.

4. Birmingham, AL

Best week to buy: Nov. 5–11
Median list price: $299,000

Birmingham, a city that became synonymous with the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, is now becoming known for its burgeoning food scene and rich music and arts culture.

For buyers shopping in the Birmingham metro in early November, homes typically stay on the market for an average of more than three weeks longer than the area’s peak homebuying season. So it’s a good thing the winters here are so mild this time of year, with a weather-comfort index rated at 8 out of 10 in the month of November.

With just 1.1 million residents, Birmingham is the smallest metro on our list (closely followed by Buffalo, NY).

Buyers can find newly constructed three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes for about $270,000 or a remodeled three-bedroom, two-bathroom ranch for about $240,000.

5. Buffalo, NY

Best week to buy: Nov. 12–18
Median list price: $259,900

Buffalo offers more than just great wings and Bills football games.

“As a buyer, the best week is in November,” says Matthew Roland, assistant dean at the University of Buffalo’s Department of Urban and Regional Planning.

Home sellers who haven’t found buyers by this time, he says, are often in a rush to close deals.

“Sellers are thinking, ‘Oh, no, I have to sell this now,'” he says. “So they’re slashing prices or throwing anything they can at that buyer.”

The second week of November is a quiet time for the market, with a 50% drop in views per property—the biggest on our list.

“Nobody really wants to move or close in December unless they absolutely have to,” Roland adds.

Homes also stay on the market for 28 more days compared with peak times, giving buyers the luxury of choice without the pressure of immediate competition. And with the least expensive median list price on our list, Buffalo offers affordability without sacrificing charm.

6. Tampa, FL

Best week to buy: Dec. 3–9
Median list price: $439,244

Tampa, a city that straddles the spot where the Gulf of Mexico meets Tampa Bay, is a treasure trove for homebuyers in early December.

“Our market is totally different because we are not cyclical based on seasons at all, as most of the North is,” says Caitlin Jones, a Realtor with Dalton Wade Real Estate Group, in St. Petersburg. That’s because the warm weather is year-round, drawing buyers even during what would be the offseason of other markets.

The Tampa metro, which includes St. Petersburg and Clearwater, typically experiences a more than 40% drop in views per property compared with peak times. That means the competition has traditionally been as mild as a Florida winter.

The state’s tax laws also contribute to making it a good time to buy, Jones says.

Florida’s generous homestead exemption can provide significant property tax savings—and is portable, meaning it can be transferred from one homestead property to another. However, claiming the benefit requires owning the home on Jan. 1, or else having to wait until the following year.

“If you’re able to sell by the end of the year, there’s a tax benefit,” Jones adds.

7. Miami, FL

Best week to buy: Jan. 8–14
Median list price: $599,000

Miami, the Magic City, saves its best tricks for the new year.

To be sure, it’s the most expensive market on our list. It also became hugely popular during the pandemic as companies expanded and relocated in the area and scores of new residents poured in, boosting competition and home prices.

If you have your heart set on living in Southern Florida, it could pay off to hold out until the first weeks of 2024 to ensure the best buying conditions in the Miami metro, which also includes Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach.

New listings are up by 8% compared with the average week, giving buyers a fresh array of choices in this vibrant, multicultural metropolis.

Learn more at Realtor.com

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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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Some of the Best Pumpkin Patches And Fall Festivals in Colorado

Fall is in the air, and everyone is starting to plan fun things to do in Colorado to enjoy this beautiful season!

From caramel apples to hay rides, from pumpkin patches to corn mazes, there are numerous farms and ranches offering a delightful experience for the whole family. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite fall festivals from Colorado Springs to Denver.

Every pumpkin patch or fall festival has something unique about it, so choose the one that best fits your family’s interest (and pocketbook!). Here’s to cider, pony rides, and hay bales!

Without further ado, in no particular order:

Monument

1. Colorado Pumpkin Patch

The Colorado Kid Ranch has been hosting their fall festival for 14 years and running! Located in Monument just 20 minutes north of Colorado Springs, their farm is full of fall-themed activities kids will love! (And don’t forget to check out their annual Watermelon Festival held every August!) More Info

Open: Every Day (Except Mondays) Starting September 17 Through October 30

Tickets: Start at $14 Per Person (they offer Military, First Responder, and Senior Discounts!) / Children 3 and Under are FREE 

What Makes it Unique:

• Jumping Pillows

  1. Pony Rides

  2. Face Painting

  3. Giant Outdoor Games (Jenga, Checkers, and Tic Tac Toe)

  4. 80 ft. Slides

  5. Tractor Rides

  6. Pumpkins for $3.00+

  7. Concessions

  8. Laser Tag

Colorado Springs

2. Miners’ Pumpkin Patch 

The Western Museum of Mining and Industry hosts their annual “Miners’ Pumpkin Patch” every Saturday throughout the month of October. The best part is that every ticket includes a free pumpkin to take home! More Info

Open: Saturdays Only in October

Tickets: Start at $10 in Advance / $12 at the Gate

What Makes it Unique:

• Cornhole

  1. Apple Cider

  2. Food Trucks

  3. Pumpkin Smash and Catepult

  4. Kids Sack Races

  5. Spooky Stories

  6. Hay Mountain Slide

 3. Longneck Pumpkin Farm

This beautiful family-owned farm offers so much to enjoy! From adventure-filled hay rides and bench swings to a relaxing cottonwood grove, there is something every family member will love. Check out the new book written by Mrs. Longnecker herself, The Lopsided Pumpkin, which will be available for purchase. More Info

Open: Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Starting September 24 through October 31

Tickets: $15 Per Person in September and $17 Per Person in October / Children Under 24 Months are FREE

What Makes it Unique:

• Pumpkins for $7+

  1. Fall-Themed Photo Ops

  2. Hay Rides

  3. Farmer’s Market

  4. Hay Bale Slide

  5. Storytelling

  6. Reserved Birthday Party Table for $50

  7. Permission to Have a Professional Photography Session for $50

Elizabeth

4. The Patch in Elizabeth

With more than 20 activities, The Patch in Elizabeth will create new fall memories for you and your family! Check out the petting zoo, bucking bronco train, or apple cannon. And don’t forget to head to the concessions for a treat! More Info

Open: Every Thursday through Sunday Starting September 17 through October 30

Tickets: $22 / Children 2 and Under are FREE

Discounts Available: Military ($20) and Grandparents ($20)

What Makes it Unique:

• Homemade Apple Cider Donuts

  1. Low Ropes Course

  2. 4-Acre Tall Corn Maze

  3. Tetherball

  4. Giant Bubbler

  5. Photo Props

  6. Apple Cannon (Extra Charge of $5)

  7. Pumpkins for $1+ (average is $12)

Bennett

5. Mile High Farms

Located just east of Denver, this beautiful farm has been entertaining families during the fall season since 2010. Head through the make-believe town with lots of activities to try including two different corn mazes. More Info

Open: Every Saturday and Sunday During October

Tickets: Kids $12 (ages 5-12) / Adults $17 (ages 17-59) / Children 4 and under are FREE

Discounts Available: Military and Seniors (ages 60+) $12

• 2 Corn Mazes Spanning 11 Acres

  1. Barrel Cart Rides

  2. Corn Pits

  3. Playground

  4. Entertainment

  5. Pumpkins for $0.85 per pound

Franktown

6. Lone Creek Farms

Not only does this farm have the typical fall festival activities, but it also has live entertainment! Watch a pig race, a pumpkin and candy cannon, and a firetruck pumpkin drop. More Info

Open: Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday Starting September 22 through October 30

Tickets: $25.95 per person / Children 3 and under are FREE / Thursdays are only $21.95!

Discounts Available: Military and Seniors (ages 63+) $22.95

What Makes it Unique:

• Zip Lines

  1. Giant Dragon Inflatable Obstacle Course

  2. Pedal Carts

  3. Giant Pumpkin Jump Pads

  4. Cow Barrel Train Rides

  5. Duck Derby Races

  6. Tire Swing

  7. Pan for Gold

  8. Live Show Entertainment

Lafayette

7. Cottonwood Farm

If you’re on a budget, then this pumpkin patch is for you! The fall market, where you can purchase pumpkins, squash, and decorative items, can be accessed every day for free, and admission is only $5 for the festival. More Info

Open: Daily Starting September 24 through October 30

Tickets: $5 Per Person / Children 5 and under and Adults 65+ are FREE

What Makes it Unique:

• Locally Harvested Honey for Purchase

  1. Pumpkin Patch

  2. Straw Bale Maze

  3. Petting Zoo

  4. Fall Decor for Purchase

  5. Wagon Rides

  6. Plus, they sell Christmas trees in the winter!

Longmont

8. Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Patch

Come during the weekdays to enjoy their “mellow” pumpkin patch with fewer crowds. Or, come on the weekend for their fun-filled festival activities! Since each activity has its own ticket price, you only pay for what you enjoy. More Info

Open: Saturday and Sunday ONLY in September | Daily through October 30 (Enjoy the Carnival Activities on Saturdays and Sundays ONLY)

Tickets: Admission and Parking are FREE! Purchase $1.00 Tickets for Activities (Each Ranging from 1 to 10 Tickets)

What Makes it Unique:

• Certified Organic Farm Stand

  1. “Instagram-Worthy” Photo Displays

  2. Balloon Typhoon

  3. Fire Truck Slide

  4. Obstacle Course

  5. Pumpkin Painting

  6. Dragon Roller Coaster

  7. Animal Train Ride

9. Anderson Farm

Have fun on the farm with Fall Festival weekdays or weekends at Anderson Farm! This farm is not only a pumpkin patch. Also included are pedal karts, farm animals, jump pads, a barrel train, and more! Its largest feature is a 25-acre corn maze. More Info

Open: Daily Starting September 20-October 30, 2023

Tickets: Start at $27 Per Person / Children 3 and under are FREE

What Makes it Unique:

• Pumpkin Cannon

  1. Wagon Rides in Pumpkin Patch

  2. Large Corn Maze

  3. Petting Zoo

  4. Barnyard 500 Pedal Karts

  5. Terror in the Corn

  6. Zombie Paintball Hunt

Thornton

10. Maize in the City

Come to Maize in the City for the largest corn maze that will take you 40 minutes to complete! Download their smartphone trivia game to help you with clues to get you through to the end. The maze changes every year, so make it a family tradition! More Info

Open: Weekends through Mid-October, then Daily until October 30

Tickets: Adults $14 / Children $10 / Children 4 and Under are FREE

What Makes it Unique:

• 20 Acre “Crazed” Corn Field Maze (takes approximately 40 minutes!)

  1. Mini Maze for young children ($5 for tickets)

  2. Pumpkin Field with Carving Kits for Purchase

  3. Sand Art

  4. 5-Minute Escape Rooms

  5. Face Painting

 Fall is a beautiful season in Colorado, so make the most of it by attending one (or more!) of these fun fall festivals and pumpkin patches.

Happy Fall, everyone!

Learn more at rockymountainfoodtours.com

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