The Autumn Harvest Fest is in full swing at The Elegant Farmer in Mukwonago, and there’s no better welcome for a kid than their smiley face barn.
Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, this event offers a wholesome, old-fashioned farm experience for all ages.
With apple picking, hayrides, a corn maze, and their famous apple pie baked in a paper bag, this fall festival has everything to make your autumn day unforgettable.
What’s Special at the Fall Harvest Fest?
- Apple Picking: Each weekend, you can hand-pick a variety of apples straight from the orchard. Check their website on Thursdays for an updated list of which varieties are ready for picking.
- Smilin’ Barn Cafe: When hunger strikes, head to the Smilin’ Barn Cafe for delicious fall treats like BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, hot dogs, beef chili with corn chips, and of course, apple pie. You can also sip on fresh apple cider or indulge in a caramel apple.
- Hayrides, Pony Rides, and Train Rides: Hop on a tractor-pulled hayride to soak in the vibrant fall colors, let the little ones enjoy a pony ride, or arrive in style via the East Troy Railroad.
- Corn Maze: Navigate through the apple-themed corn maze—perfect for kids and adults alike. It’s just challenging enough to be fun for the whole family, and easy to get in and out.
- Pumpkin Patch: No fall festival is complete without pumpkin picking! Choose from a wide variety of pumpkins, from tiny pie pumpkins to extra-large carving pumpkins.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
- Take the Train: For a special twist, ride the historic East Troy Electric Railroad to Elegant Farmer. The train drops you right at the festival, giving you an exciting and scenic entrance to the fun.
- Beat the Crowds: The early birds get the apples! Arrive before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m. to avoid peak crowds. Grab some coffee and donuts from the market when it opens at 9 a.m., then head across the street to start picking apples when the orchard opens at 10 a.m.
- Bring Your Appetite: The award-winning Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag is a must-try! Reviewers rave about its crispy, buttery crust and tender apple filling. You can also pick up homemade pot pies, apple cider, and farm-fresh produce to take home with you.
Plan Your Visit
The Fall Harvest Fest runs Saturdays and Sundays through the end of October, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission and parking are free, but hayrides, pony rides, and the corn maze have ticketed entry.
Make sure to bring your camera for some great photo ops in front of the iconic Smilin’ Barn!
Happy Fall! 🍂
Related Post: 10 Best Places to go Apple Picking Around Milwaukee
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
