Tanaka Farms

It wasn’t long ago that Orange County was covered with strawberry farms, ranches, and orange groves. Now, it is nearly impossible to find a patch of land still used for agriculture. Luckily, there are still a few hold outs and one of them is Tanaka Farms.

Tanaka Farms in tucked back in the hills of Irvine, surrounded by suburbia, yet still manages to provide the rural feel that so many of us miss. The Tanakas focus on a different crop each season such as strawberries in the spring, watermelons in the summer, and pumpkins in the fall. They also provide tours to school groups where kids can pick their own carrots, green beans, and more!

No self respecting pumpkin farm can possibly exist without a corn maze.  After going to the World’s Largest Corn Maze last year (read about it here), we have been a bit spoiled but Tanaka’s maze is still fun and a great place to let the kids run off some energy.

During pumpkin season the vegetable patch is open on weekends for kids pick their own veggies. Ben was especially proud of his bounty and refused to let anyone touch his veggies but him.

 

The wagon ride around the farm puts families in the spirit of the season and gives people a bigger glimpse at the size of the farm. A highlight is watching the pumpkin cannon go off during the tour.   Of course, the whole point of going to a pumpkin patch is to find your perfect pumpkin. After much searching through a sea of squash, Mari and Ben decided they wanted “baby” pumpkins and Mommy’s wallet couldn’t have been any happier.

If you would like more info on Tanaka Farms and all the great programs they have going on year round click here.

Family Travel Tips
Irvine