Fredericksburg Parent

12 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • September 2023 WRITTEN BY EMILY FREEHLING As summer's heat gives way to cooler fall days, now is an ideal time to plan outdoor fun with kids of any age. At Snead's Farm, what started as a simple visit to the pumpkin patch has grown over many years into a unique opportunity to show your kids some active outdoor fun. Make no mistake, Snead's Farm still has some of the best prices in town on pumpkins of all sizes. But the families who come to tromp through the fields in search of the perfect jack-o-lan- tern are also finding lots more to love. Parents love that admission to Snead's Farm includes unlimited hayrides, which take families around the entire back field. Visitors can gaze out at blooming sunflowers and see some of our best pumpkin fields from the ride. There are also abundant birds to point out to young naturalists. Wander into the woods and you'll hear screams of delight coming from the four Mountain Slides, which are embedded into the steep inclines. Shaded by old-growth oaks and maples, these slides have become a popular attraction, giving kids and adults alike a thrilling ride down the hill from the back fields. A creek runs through the farm, and Snead's Farm understands what a natural playscape this can be for children (when properly supervised). Swings and logs along the banks offer a chance to get playful around the water. As the farm has built up areas for play and exploration, creativity and artistry have played a major role. A Vietnam-era Sikorsky helicopter sits amid the sheep pens, inviting kids to climb aboard and engage in imaginary air battles. The Whispering Pines tree maze—first planted in 2006 with fast-growing pines— has grown into a shady sanctuary where children can safely wander without get- ting lost out of sight. All ages will appreciate the old farm equipment parts that have been resurrected with colorful paint as sculpture. A wormhole and teepee give kids a chance to find their own hideout. From the sand pile, to the playhouse, to the wheeled toys on the patio, kids will find endless ways to be active here. And they can see horses, sheep, goats, chickens and other animals along the way. This variety of activities helped make Snead's Farm the No. 1 pick for Outdoor Activities in Fredericksburg Parent & Family Magazine's 2023 Family Favorites contest. Attractions ABOUND Sponsored Material Start a of OUTDOOR FUN Fall Tradition at

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