If you've spent any time in Bismarck, you know that Papa's Pumpkin Patch is a must-see when fall rolls around because there's nothing like it in the area. Now the rest of the country is taking notice. Papa's recently landed on USA Today's list of the country's coolest pumpkin patches, being recognized with 15 other patches from around the nation. Apart from the huge selection of pumpkins, gourds, and decorative corn, the list lauded the over 25 different activities available for visitors.

This year alone, Papa's will welcome more than 50,000 people through its gates over the 7-week season and showcase about 50,000 pumpkins, squash, and gourds - that's more than 300,000 pounds!

Papa's got its start over 30 years ago in 1983 by accident when they grew pumpkins for a parade that didn't ripen in time. The family then invited local grade school teachers to bring their classes out to enjoy the pumpkins once they turned orange. It was so well-received that they opened Papa's to the public in 1989. The rest, as they say, is history.

Not only does it boast the best pumpkin patch in the area, it also turns into Papa's Polar Patch when winter rolls around! The Polar Patch features old-fashioned sled rides, horse-drawn sleigh rides and concessions to enjoy.

The pumpkin patch is open 12-7pm daily, weather permitting. The last day of the 2014 season is Saturday, October 25. General admission is $4 per person, infants and toddlers age 2 or younger are free.

The polar patch opens on Friday, December 26th and is open 12-5pm, weather permitting. Cost of admission is $5 per person, which gets you two free tickets to use for sled rides, sleigh rides and concessions in Papa’s warming house.

Also featured on the list:

  • Ackerman Farms in Morton, IL
  • Linvilla Orchards in Media, PA
  • Yahoo Farm in Jasper, GA
  • Cox Farms in Centreville, VA
  • Duffield's Farm in Sewell, NJ
  • Harbes Family Farm in Mattituck, NY
  • Nash Ranch in Redding, CA
  • Pumpkin Hollow in Piggott, AR
  • Kinman Farms in Burlington, KY
  • Roloff Farms in Helvetia, OR
  • Punkin Days in Floydada, TX
  • Baughers Orchards and Ranch in Westminister, MD
  • Colemans Christmas Tree Farm in Middletown, DE
  • Cool Patch Pumpkins in Dixon, CA

Make sure to always check Papa's Facebook page to stay up-to-date on announcements and inclement weather updates.

[SOURCE: USA Today]

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