
From haunted houses to immersive experiences to real sites with a ghostly history, October has a plethora of fun and spooky things to see and do. But it's hard to know where all the best Halloween events are if you've just moved to a new area. Ohio is full of spooky destinations you won't want to miss. Here are some of our favorite haunts, tours, and other Halloween events near Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
605 Market Ave. N, Canton, OH, 44702
This one-day event runs Friday, October 28th, from 10:30 pm to 2 am and is limited to just 30 people, so get your tickets as soon as possible. Taking place at the historic Canton Palace Theatre, this is not a show or a haunt, but a real investigation into possible mysterious and paranormal goings on there, led by paranormal investigators Team S.P.E.C.T.R.E. Photographs and videos are encouraged, and attendees are welcome to bring their own ghost hunting tools, such as temperature and EMF meters, motion detectors, etc.
13463 Cedar Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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While this one isn't a scary experience, if you're a fan of horror movies, you'll want to check out this restaurant. With posters and memorabilia on the walls, they serve up dishes inspired by all your favorite scary movies, from the Birdbox Sandwich (fried chicken breast with Cajun mayo, cheese, and maple sauce) to the Pennywise (red waffle sandwich with pepper jack and candied bacon) to Silence of the Lamb Chops, and more. And, of course, there's plenty of "creepy pasta" as well. They also have vegan options like the Ecto Burger, which pairs an Impossible patty with vegan pulled pork, and Children of the Street Corn. Come in for brunch or dinner to get into the Halloween spirit.
256 Mahoning Ave., Warren, OH 44483
Sponsored by the Trumbull County Historical Society, this ghost walk begins at the First Presbyterian Church and guides you through a one-mile walking tour of the historic Perkins neighborhood. Actors portray various members of the Perkins family and relate a variety of fun and chilling tales of the area. Now in its 34th year, the Ghost Walk is a favorite for children and adults alike.
325 E. Iron Ave., Dover, Ohio 44622
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The Reeves Victorian Home and Carriage House Museum has a variety of tours and events throughout the year, from tea parties to murder mystery dinners, which allow guests to explore this beautiful and historic 19th-century property. But if you're a fan of the paranormal, the one you'll most want to check out is the Ghost Tour. Happening October 14th and 15th, this guided tour will relate stories of the strange and unexplained things that have happened in the Reeves Museum, along with some old Victorian superstitions. Tours regularly from 7 pm to 10 pm, but if you're really brave, you can take the Midnight Tour!
100 Reformatory Rd., Mansfield, OH 44905
The Ohio State Reformatory is best known as the filming location for the 1994 film The Shawshank Redemption. In October, however, they use the facility in a very different way. Escape from Blood Prison is an intense haunt experience that turns the walls of the reformatory into a waking nightmare. Guests find themselves surrounded by the ghosts of some of the prison's more violent offenders and witness to the horrors that occurred there. Recommended for ages 10 and up, this is a wild ride you won't soon forget.
424 George St., Marietta, OH 45750
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Dating back to 1859, this 23-room mansion is filled with history, including connections to the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. It also has a history of haunted occurrences and spooky happenings. On Saturdays in October, you can take a guided tour of the history and hauntings in this mansion. Or, if you're brave, you can take a flashlight ghost tour on Friday nights beginning at 10 pm.
118 Ridges Circle, Athens, OH 45701
What better way to celebrate spooky season than with a trip to a mental asylum? The Ridges (formerly the Athens Lunatic Asylum) treated patients for over 100 years. In addition to the facilities, there are also three cemeteries, with nearly 2,000 graves of the patients who died there over the years. Tours of the asylum are full of history, mystery, and just a bit of spine-tingling creepiness. The Halloween season isn't complete without a visit.
Hope-Moonville Road, McArthur, OH 45651
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Not a house, not a haunt, just a cool place with a spooky vibe. Formerly a railroad line leading to the town of Moonville, the line no longer runs, and Moonville is a ghost town. The tunnel is one of the only things still remaining. You can hike to it across the remains of the railroad line, and it's a great place to explore and take photos. And legend has it, the tunnel is haunted by the ghosts of railroad workers who died there. If you look closely, you can still see them waving their lanterns.
29100 W. River Rd. (OH-65), Perrysburg, OH 43551
Fort Meigs was a military base during the War of 1812. Now, you can take immersive history tours there and experience the era for yourself. But the last two weekends in October, they have a different sort of tour. Guides will take you back in time to experience a variety of unexplained occurrences that have been reported over the years. Tours are conducted entirely by lantern light, with stories told around campfires. Tours begin at 7 pm, but if you want the full experience, take the 18+ night tour at 8:45 or 9 pm.
What spooky goings-on are you looking forward to experiencing this Halloween season?

Not only is a bed and breakfast a wonderful place to stay while on a long trip, it also makes a great destination for a fall weekend getaway. The city of Columbus and the surrounding areas are filled with a wide variety of bed and breakfast locations that are perfect for any occasion. We're sharing some of our personal favorites that each have their own personality and allure.
106 S. High St., Gahanna, OH 43230
Distance from Downtown Columbus: 9 miles
Owned and operated by the Gahanna Historical Society, the Lily Stone Bed and Breakfast has recently been given a facelift, and you really can't beat its cozy atmosphere. In addition to high-speed wi-fi, you'll be greeted with a full kitchen complete with breakfast table, gorgeous dining room, screened-in porch, a parlor room with television and games, large outdoor area, picnic tables, and more. Many discoveries are also within walking distance, including parks, restaurants, and shopping.
314 E. Broadway, Granville, Ohio 43023
Distance from Downtown Columbus: 35 miles
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Established in 1924, the Granville Inn is surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscape features in all of Ohio. Set near a charming New England-style village with a backdrop that features rolling hills and soaring trees, this bed and breakfast offers the perfect place to relax and enjoy your loved ones. With its gorgeous guest rooms, large meeting spaces, and award-winning dining experience, you may never want to leave. It's the perfect spot for weddings, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, corporate events, or even a simple birthday party.
5811 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus, OH 43235
Distance from Downtown Columbus: 11 miles
Take a look at the Timbrook Guesthouse for something a little different for your bed and breakfast weekend extravaganza. Built in 1988, the theme of this location can be summed up in just two words: tropical paradise. The amenities you'll discover here include lush gardens, outdoor jacuzzi, heated elliptical pool, gazebo, fire pit, and more. Each of the rooms, from the Bluebird Suite to the South Siesta Suite, has a unique style and feel all its own.
313 E. Broadway, Granville, OH 43023
Distance from Downtown Columbus: 35 miles
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If you're searching for a weekend hotspot that's a bit on the fancy side, then the historic Buxton Inn is exactly what you're looking for. This bed and breakfast has been around for more than 200 years and is especially famous for its restaurant that serves the best seafood trio, grilled salmon, lemon chicken, and even huge burgers with a large side of fries. Once you arrive, you'll understand why so many people have used the Buxton Inn for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations.
4200 E. National Rd., Springfield, OH 45505
Distance from Downtown Columbus: 41 miles
Residents and visitors alike are often drawn to Emma's Bed & Breakfast because of its small-town simplicity. The outside is what many would consider a charming throwback to understated architecture, while the inside sports a classic look that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. While you're there, this oft-billed "home away from home" opportunity gives you access to day spas, hiking trails, restaurants, nightlife, wineries, shopping, and even a nearby zoo.
610 S. Court St., Circleville, OH 43113
Distance from Downtown Columbus: 30 miles
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Very often found on best-of lists amongst friends, family members, and coworkers for its castle appearance alone, the Castle Inn Bed & Breakfast stands out in the crowd. The inn has been billed as the perfect romantic getaway, but it's probably most famous for its monthly murder mysteries where guests get to dress up in early 1900s attire (supplied by Castle Inn) and dive into a scarily fun adventure. Some other activities around the area include flea market shopping, horseback riding, hiking, boating, and - as always - simply reading and relaxing in the comfort of your room or nearly anywhere in the inn itself.
519 S. Drexel Ave., Bexley, OH 43209
Distance from Downtown Columbus: 4 miles
As one of the more modern-styled bed and breakfasts on our list, this getaway location has become extremely popular. The contemporary design of the Bexley Bed and Breakfast is based on the philosophy of "modern meets comfort," and, given the wall-mounted televisions, wi-fi, keyless entry, heated floors, and heated towel racks, they definitely live up to this concept. Head out the door for a short walk, and you'll soon find yourself surrounded by restaurants, boutiques, a bike trail, ice cream shops, and other delights.
2133 Cambria Mill Rd., Granville, OH 43023
Distance from Downtown Columbus: 40 miles
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The Welsh Hills Inn is a charming yet luxurious bed and breakfast, which is probably why it's often the place where couples decide to begin their new lives together. Surrounded by 15 acres of trees, ponds, and valleys, you'll feel as if you've been whisked away to a far-off land. The good news is that this "far-off land" is filled with amenities you might expect, such as gourmet meals, evening wine and cheese social, spa services, and more.
185 W. Winter St., Delaware, OH 43015
Distance from Downtown Columbus: 26 miles
Closing in on its 150th anniversary, the Winter Saint Inn has an old-world elegance that's hard to match. Step inside, and you'll discover Italian marble fireplaces, a baby grand piano, and antiques galore. The rooms are classically gorgeous, and the food is wonderfully delicious, but many people are especially keen on the owners, Rodger and Debbie. Since they took over the inn more than 15 years ago, they've worked hard to make sure that every single guest feels welcome and accommodated.
Are you looking for a modern bed and breakfast or something a little more old school? Either way, it's on this list!

Trains were once a primary mode of transportation in the United States. Although railroads now see less use, plenty are still around. There are a lot of places in Ohio where you can take a train ride, see some beautiful scenery, and in some cases, learn a little more about railroads and trains in the process. Here are some of the top Ohio train rides worth taking.
5700 OH-204, Mt Perry, OH 43760
This train follows a historic rail line called the Glass Rock Spur. The company is run by volunteers who make the experience fun and lighthearted. The train cars are historical, and that's part of the thrill. Many of the rides are themed for the seasons.
The Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad is a great place to visit with kids. The ride isn't too long, and tickets are affordable at $9 per adult and $5 per child.
7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131
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If you happen to be in Northeast Ohio, take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. This train runs from Independence to Akron, passing through Cuyahoga National Park. It's a great way to see more of the park's scenery and wildlife. There are several routes of varying lengths to choose from.
The trains on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad have a cafe car. Check out the ride schedule on the railroad's website, and buy your tickets in advance. Prices start at just $11 for some of the shorter routes. You can also buy an all-day pass, which allows you to board and deboard as you please.
2261 Hubbard Rd., Youngstown, OH 44505
J&L Narrow Gauge Railroad is a great place to learn about steel mills and their role in the railroad industry. The company maintains a 24" demonstration railroad where you can ride a heavy, steel locomotive. You can also see an original, full-scale steel locomotive by Jones & Laughlin Steel.
This train offers rides on the second and fourth weekends of every month through October. Trains depart every 30 minutes between 10 am and 2 pm, and the rides last about 15 minutes. Tickets are $8 per person.
400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621
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The Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is a great place to learn about the use of railroads during WWII. The railroad was used to transport servicemen heading off to war. The Depot has been converted into a museum where you can see displays and films related to railroad history. You can also take a ride on the historic train.
During the holiday season, the train at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is converted into the Polar Express. This is a perfect opportunity for families with children to enjoy a festive ride.
Carillon Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45439
The Carillon Park Rail & Steam Society maintains a passenger train that travels on a small, 1/8-scale track. The train only operates on certain days; a ride schedule is available on their website. A $1 donation is suggested for each passenger, and additional donations are encouraged. All proceeds go towards track maintenance, fuel, and other expenses.
If you really enjoy your ride on the Carillon Park Railway, consider becoming a member of their society. Members help design and maintain the on-site tracks and get additional riding privileges.
990 Proprietors Rd., Worthington, OH 43085
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Ohio Railway Museum is the perfect place to learn about the history of trains and streetcars, especially as used around Columbus, Ohio. An on-site train runs every Sunday at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 pm.
Rides are just $9 for adults and $7 for kids. This price also grants you admission into the museum and outdoor grounds. Plus, you can visit the gift shop for a souvenir.
46789 OH-18, Wellington, OH 44090
The Lorain & West Virginia Railway was built in 1906 and remained active until the 1970s. It is now maintained as a passenger train where you can enjoy different themed rides throughout the year. In October, there's a Fall Foliage ride, and in November and December, it becomes the Santa Train.
Learn more about these seasonal rides on the railroad's website. Tickets typically go on sale 60 days before an event.
16 E. South St., Lebanon, OH 45036
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The Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad travels through Warren County, just outside Cincinnati. You can catch the train in Lebanon and ride for about 9 miles round-trip. You'll pass through Turtle Creek, Union Township, and Mason or Monroe along the way. Five railroad bridges are crossed on this ride, the longest of which stretches over Turtle Creek.
The trains on the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad all feature coaches built in the 1930s with bench-style seats and open windows. All train cars are heated, and some have air conditioning. You can buy tickets for the train in person at the railway ticket office.
Northeastern Ohio Live Steamers is a steam train club that offers public rides on certain dates. A few rides are coming up on September 17, October 14, and October 15, 20220. Rides are free, but donations are encouraged.
Some rides on the Northeast Ohio Live Steamers train are themed. For example, the October rides are Halloween-themed, and guests are encouraged to wear costumes. All ages are welcome.
Which one of these train rides will you embark on this year? Don't forget to blow the whistle as you roll by!

Pumpkin spice is definitely one of the most iconic and popular flavors of fall, and it can be used in everything from beer to doughnuts to pancakes. If you're one of the many Columbus pumpkin-lovers who is looking forward to trying this flavor in a variety of ways as the temperatures cool down, you're in luck.
We've compiled a list of nine places around Columbus where you can get your pumpkin fix. Visit some of the following go-to spots to try yummy pumpkin drinks and other goodies.
260 S. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43215
Head downtown to Hadley's Bar + Kitchen, where you can sample beer, cocktails, and brunch, lunch, or dinner in a hip, industrial-chic space. In addition to its Ohio drafts, Hadley's serves up signature cocktails and its popular boozy milkshakes. Several boozy shake flavors are available year-round, such as the Strawberry Shortcake, which is made with Smirnoff Strawberry, fresh strawberries, cookie crumbs, vanilla ice cream, and whipped cream. For a seasonal treat, try the pumpkin variety, which is packed with flavor and comes with pumpkin pie at its base and whipped cream all over.
772 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Located in Italian Village, a popular foodie destination near the Short North Arts District, Piece of Cake has gained a loyal following since its opening in 1998. Its well known for its wedding cakes but also has a variety of delicious goodies available for immediate purchase. They're all made in-house and include tempting treats such as tarts, mini-cakes, and cupcakes. To get yourself in the spirit of the fall season, try a pumpkin cupcake and order several extras to take home with you.
6607 East Broad St., Columbus, OH 43213
You won't have to travel far to find a Sunny Street Cafe, since the restaurant has two additional locations in Columbus: one at 8461 Sancus Blvd. and another at 4733 Reed Rd. The family-run restaurants are definitely all-in on the pumpkin flavors and are famous for their Legendary Pumpkin pancakes that are big and fluffy and topped with cinnamon butter and a tres leches drizzle. If you have a bigger appetite, try the Pumpkin Breakfast Combo, which has two pumpkin pancakes along with two eggs, your choice of bacon, ham, or sausage, and your choice of side. Finally, treat yourself to made-from-scratch Pumpkin White Chip Muffins, which are loaded with white chocolate chip muffins.
240 E. Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206
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German Village's Schmidt's Restaurant is a family business that's currently operated by its fourth and fifth generations. You can also enjoy their food at the Ohio State Fair, where they've been serving up German food and beverages since 1914. A half-pound jumbo cream puff with a special whipped filling in a lightly baked pastry shell is a perennial customer favorite, and you can try it in flavors like vanilla and peanut butter fudge. A flavor of the month is also featured, and you'll want to try Schmidt's pumpkin version of their cream puff this time of year. It even comes topped off with a cute little candy corn pumpkin!
Long Street Studio, 300 E. Long St., Columbus, OH 43215
When you stop in at The Roosevelt Coffeehouse, you'll not only be getting a great cup of coffee but also supporting the local and global fight against unclean water, hunger, and human trafficking. Try an iced or drip coffee or espresso, and pair it with a doughnut, bagel, or gluten-free pastry. And in the fall, check out menu additions like the Hot Chaider (chai plus apple cider) and the Pumpkin Spice Latte.
3870 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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The taste alone is enough to make you want to try Pattycake Bakery's made-from-scratch goodies, but if you're also looking for primarily organic, all-vegan ingredients, you're headed to the right place. In addition to cakes and cupcakes, you'll find muffins, whole-grain granola, and whoopie pies on the menu. To satisfy your pumpkin craving, try a whole-grain pumpkin whoopie pie that's paired with a spiced filling.
2971 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
Lineage Brewing has a comfortable, casual atmosphere where you can meet with friends and relax inside or outside on the patio. In addition to food, you'll normally find 10-12 styles of beer on tap. If you'd like something other than beer, the brewpub also offers wine, mixed drinks, and locally made soda. Every fall, you can also order a pumpkin ale that's made with roasted pumpkin from a local farm. Its perfect pale orange flavor immediately evokes the thought of pumpkin, and it's deliciously spiced with cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg.
1998 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210
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No matter when you get a pumpkin craving, you can score a pumpkin spice doughnut at Buckeye Doughnuts, where, as their saying goes, they're "Open Always, Closed Never." The shop is located across from The Ohio State University's campus, so you'll have an extra-large crowd after football games. If you're in a hurry, you can order your doughnut online so it will be ready for you to pick up when you arrive. The doughnuts are fresh and the coffee's hot, but if you're in the mood for something substantial, the shop serves all-day breakfast and entrees such as gyros and Greek salads.
What pumpkin spice menu item do you look forward to ordering each year, and which new treats do you want to try?

Fall has arrived, which means it's time for pumpkins, apples, and corn mazes. Getting lost in a corn maze can make for some great fall fun. Wondering whether you've turned the right way, feeling like you're going in circles, singing songs about the corn — it's all a part of the process. There are lots of great corn mazes in Ohio. Here are some of the mazes most worth visiting as the autumn leaves start to fall.
Derthick's Corn Maze is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through October 31, 2021. There are actually two mazes on-site. One is a bit shorter, and one is a bit longer. You can work your way through one or both, using clues found along the way to guide you.
In addition to a corn maze, this farm offers other fun activities like sunflower picking, a cow train, a petting zoo, and a zip line. There are often food trucks on-site so you can enjoy snacks or a tasty drink.
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If you're in the Northeast Ohio area, this is definitely one of the top corn mazes to visit. In 2018, it was voted the Best Corn Maze in the Nation by USA Today. Each year, the maze has a different theme. For 2021, the theme is Snow White.
Maze Craze will be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31. There are a few special events throughout the season, including a Wine and Cider Adventure on October 7 and 14th. In addition to the corn maze, Maze Craze offers a hayride, corn hole games, a straw maze for little ones, and a tractor playground.
Regal Vineyards is primarily a winery, but each year, they also organize a top-notch corn maze. The maze stretches over 8 acres and is open Saturdays and Sundays through October 31. On Friday and Saturday nights from 7 - 10 pm, the corn maze becomes haunted for an even more intense experience!
In addition to the corn maze, Regal Vineyards offers lots of other fun family activities like duck races, hayrides, pumpkin bowling, and a jumping pillow. Concessions are available on-site, and there's a gift shop where you can buy various farm souvenirs.
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Lynd Fruit Farm offers one of the biggest corn mazes near Columbus. The theme this year is the 7 Seas. As you navigate the maze, you can pretend you are a pirate sailing on waves of corn and fighting off sea monsters. The maze is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the maze.
After navigating the maze, you can play Giant Jenga, take a wagon ride, or pick some apples. There's also a climbing wall for kids.
The Maize at Little Darby Creek is entering its 20th year, and it's shaping up to be a nice one. This year's 8-acre corn maze design honors Jack Nicklaus, an internationally renowned golfer from Ohio. It will be open to visitors Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31st.
Along with the price of admission, you also get to enjoy a petting zoo, laser tag, a low ropes course, pumpkin tic-tac-toe, and tetherball, along with other family-friendly activities.
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If you're looking for a quieter experience, then Hendren Farm Market is a great place to visit. They have an 8-acre corn maze behind the farm market. There are clues hidden throughout the maze to help you solve a mystery as you find your way through.
After going through the maze, you can shop for farm-grown goodies in the market. Along with pumpkins, apples, and other fall produce, you'll find cinnamon rolls, honey, syrup, and beef jerky.
Tom's Maze is open Thursday-Sunday through October 30. This is their 24th year of running the maze, and it's shaping up to be a good one. The maze stretches over 8 acres of cornfields. There are 12 different puzzles to solve along the way, each of which is found inside a colorful mailbox.
In addition to the typical corn maze experience, Tom's Maze offers private campfire packages. You can pay ahead to rent a campfire site for you and your family to enjoy. This can be a fun way to spend more time together after playing in the corn maze.
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Burwinkle Farms has been a staple in the Cincinnati area for 100 years. They operate several farm properties in the area, growing everything from strawberries to apples. In the fall, they transform their Ross farm into a Fall Extravaganza. The corn maze is a key attraction, but there is also a corn pool, haunted hayrides, and a Halloween scavenger hunt. There are lots of fun fall scenes where you can snap memorable photos of yourself and your family.
Burwinkle Farms also has a farm stand on-site. You can purchase sweet corn, melons, potatoes, and other locally grown goods to cook at home.
If you have kids, then Brown's Family Farm Market is a great place to enjoy a corn maze. The atmosphere is very relaxed, and you can go through the maze at your own pace. In addition to the maze, there's a miniature town where the kids can play. There's also a smaller straw maze that makes for a shorter maze experience.
The farm stand also sells pumpkins and Amish fry pies, which are a delicious fall treat. There's also a picnic area that you can reserve ahead of time if desired. You could go through the maze and then enjoy a picnic lunch together.
Which one of these corn mazes will you get lost in this fall? Let us know when you find your way out.