We drove over to Vala's Pumpkin Patch this week. I have been to pumpkin patches all over the United States (New Jersey, Arizona, Nebraska) and I've never seen anything like Vala's. Wow! It is similar to an amusement park there are so many attractions.
We arrived at 3:00 PM, almost a 45 minute drive from central Lincoln, and we were busy the entire time until we left at sundown. My main mistake was not bringing a stroller or wagon. My kids were tired and I didn't realize how stroller-friendly it was. There are paths everywhere and plenty of space to push a double stroller. Little legs will get tired without some mode of transportation. (I ended up being the transportation.)
There is something for everyone at Vala's. My kids are young and we spent most of our time on the Great Pumpkin Jumps, the train, the corn box, various slides and the small play areas dotted throughout the area. Older kids can enjoy the farm too. There are tons of attractions including haunted houses and a corn maze.
The cost for us to go was about $22.00 (one adult and one child). The cost for a weekday ticket (excluding Fridays) is $10.42 plus tax. Our youngest is two so her admission was free. During the weekend the price jumps to $13.99 plus tax. Once you are inside the gates, most attractions are free as well. The only other ride we paid for was the train at $3.00/person. You are able to buy tickets for the train at the train; no need to buy them at the door.
Vala's allows you to bring in your own food so a family can easily cut the cost of a trip down by packing in lunch or dinner. There are ample eateries in the park too.
Pros: the cost is great for your return, stroller friendly, fun for kids of multiple ages, can bring in your own food
Cons: long drive, the cost can add up for a large family, it is very crowded on the weekends (like Disney crowded)
Overall: We had a good time. Everyone was tired! If you can go on a weekday, consider it because it is much cheaper and much less crowded. When you go plan for several hours!
