By Shala Gean

The weather is starting to cool. The air is crisp. Kids are back in school. And the outdoor activities are just beginning.

It’s almost fall! Even though it might be tough to believe, there is more to fall than pumpkin spice lattes. Although, I do enjoy my fair share of those!

Fall is a great time to visit a farm, and the Lone Star State has quite a few farms with agritourism venues like pumpkin patches, corn mazes and more.

That’s a great way to learn more about what farmers and ranchers do, because they combine elements of agriculture and rural settings with fun activities for a unique and educational experience.

Picking pumpkins. Petting zoos. Hay rides. Kids can dive into agriculture and get their hands dirty!

But you don’t have to be a kid to enjoy the farm. There’s fun for all ages.

And ask questions while you’re at the farm. Find out about the hay bales you’re sitting on or the corn in the maze. Learn about the animals on the ranch or the different pumpkin varieties in the field. These are great opportunities to see a farm and ranch in action and learn more about agriculture in our state.

Several corn mazes and pumpkin patches have already opened for the season and others will open in the next few weeks.

So, check out a farm near you. Farmers and ranchers welcome families to come experience some good old-fashioned farm fun!