As the air cools and the leaves change color and crunch under your boots, there is no better time than now for college students to get their post-worthy pictures and feel like a character in Gilmore Girls. One way to enjoy a classic fall activity is by visiting Oregon Heritage Farms. Located on 300 sprawling acres just outside the city, the farm offers seasonal attractions and yummy treats. It is an ideal destination for a day of autumnal amusement in the Pacific Northwest. I recently visited the farm on a September morning, and the experience got me excited for the upcoming “spooky season”.
Upon entering the farm store, I was greeted by a group of friendly women surrounded by beautiful trinkets and goodies. Among them was Kim McLennan, the store manager, who has been with the farm for 28 years. I was able to sit down and chat with Kim about her knowledge and passion as a member of the fourth generation managing the farm. When I asked Kim what the most fulfilling part of the job was, she expressed gratitude for the people she interacts with on a daily basis.
“Well, besides my amazing crew, it’s our amazing customers.They are awesome.”
I discovered Oregon Heritage Farm through PDX TikTokers like @maynardvillaflores, a Filipino creator. I can see why, as it is known for its vast selection of apple products, including apple cider slushies, apple cider donuts, pies, and caramel apples. Beyond this, the farm also grows pumpkin and corn, allowing for various non-apple treats like pumpkin and lemon bread. For those seeking unique gifts for the upcoming holidays, the farm collaborates with around 30 to 40 local vendors who sell handcrafted items, including the famous banana bread candles that fill the store with the comforting scent of fresh-baked banana bread.
However, the farm is much more than just its apples and pumpkins; it is a place to relax and connect with friends and family. Attractions include a small hay maze, an animal viewing area, a spider-web rope structure for kids, rubber ducky races, and an apple bounce house. A highlight is the pumpkin patch, operated as a fundraiser by the Hillsboro High School baseball team, which features an array of fun activities such as a snack shack, an apple slingshot and hay rides. The farm takes pride in its community involvement, from hosting school field trips to fundraisers like the Munada Market, a marketplace featuring crafts and entertainment from African and local vendors. This commitment is evident not only in its events but also in its staffing, which includes family members, dedicated crew members and seasonal staff, all adding to the farm’s welcoming and familiar atmosphere.
One of the best parts about visiting The Oregon Heritage Farm is that there is no entrance fee; therefore, it is a great option for a college student’s budget. While many activities are free, hay rides around the orchard are available for just $3 on weekends in October. For a midweek treat, the farm offers a happy hour from Wednesday to Friday, 3-5 p.m., where visitors can enjoy a bag of donuts and a slushie for just $5. I tried them, and must say, the slushie and mini donut combo makes a great snack to share with a friend under the canopied picnic tables. The farm operates from Wednesday through Sunday, 10-5 p.m., with weekdays being the perfect time for a quieter experience, while weekends offer a lively and bustling atmosphere.
After spending some time at Oregon Heritage Farms, I can say that this is the place if you want to escape, get in the fall mood and feel like “There She Goes” by The La’s is playing as you frolic about. You can swing by and take a break from your studies while hanging out with friends and supporting the community. As Kim emphasized, the joy of interacting with customers and providing a fulfilling experience is at the heart of everything they do. So, gather your pals, or yourself grab a cider slushie and enjoy the cozy vibe at the farm.
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