School is back in session, the warmer temperatures are hanging on, and our local farms are ready for tourists and locals alike to experience what they have to offer this fall. There are three MUST VISIT farms this season in Mount Vernon: Kroul Farms, Bass Family Farms, and The Big Apple Orchard. Here’s what they have to offer:
Kroul Farms
Location: 245 Hwy. 1 South, Mount Vernon, IA 52314
Website: kroulfarms.com
Hours (April–October):
- Monday–Thursday: 10am–6pm
- Friday–Sunday: 9am–4pm
Kroul Farms has been a community staple for over 30 years. Each Fall, the grounds are beautifully decorated with pumpkins, gourds, mums, fall décor, and corn—perfect for picking out a pumpkin or mum to take home.
Highlights:
- 3-acre corn maze
- Hay bale maze for little kids
- Educational farm animals: kittens, ducks, rabbits, pigs, goats, cows, and chickens
- Mini Fall Farmers Market: last two weekends of September and all four weekends in October
Support the farm by purchasing produce, pumpkins, flowers, décor, and more. Admission is free.
The Big Apple Orchard
Location: 1115 US-30, Mount Vernon, IA 52314
Facebook: Big Apple Orchard
Hours: Usually open weekends through October (check Facebook for updates)
Highlights:
- U-Pick Apples
- Farm Store with bakery favorites (apple cider donuts), apple products, and slushies
- Beautiful grounds with chairs and picnic tables to enjoy treats
- Corn hole and lawn games
Bass Farms
Location: 840 Bass Lane, Mount Vernon, IA
Website: bassfarms.org
Hours: Open daily, 10am–9pm
Cost: Fall festival weekends $12/person (2 & under free), weekdays $9/person to utilize the attractions. Visit the website for more information.
Highlights:
- Pumpkin patch
- Hay rides
- Corn maze and hay bale maze
- Jump Pad
- Farm Frenzy Mega Slide
- Mini golf
- Giant yard games
- Specialty food store with ice cream and apple cider donuts
Whether you’re looking for pumpkins, apples, or just a fun fall day with the family, Mount Vernon’s local farms have something for everyone this season. Stop by our Mount Vernon Main Street for shopping and food while you are in town!
