


Volante Farms
About
Volante Farms is a beloved family destination in Needham that offers authentic farm experiences year-round. Kids can explore the greenhouses, pick seasonal produce, visit farm animals, and enjoy fresh-baked treats from the on-site bakery. The farmstand features locally grown flowers, fruits, and vegetables, while seasonal events like fall pumpkin picking make it a must-visit throughout the year.
Highlights
- ✓Seasonal pumpkin picking in October with hay bales and photo opportunities
- ✓Fresh-baked apple cider donuts and pastries from the farm bakery
- ✓Greenhouses full of flowers and plants to explore
- ✓Homemade ice cream and treats at the farmstand
- ✓Picking your own seasonal produce (strawberries, pumpkins, and more)
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on Saturday mornings for the freshest selection of produce and baked goods before the weekend crowds hit
- 2.Bring a wagon or cart for younger children during pumpkin picking season,it's a walk to the patch and little legs tire quickly
- 3.Don't miss the bakery counter for their famous apple cider donuts and pies, especially in fall,they sell out fast
- 4.Park in the main lot near Forest Street; it fills up on weekends, so weekday visits offer easier parking and a more relaxed experience
- 5.Let kids pick out their own flowers or small plant from the greenhouse to take home,it's an affordable souvenir that teaches responsibility
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (especially Tuesday-Thursday, 9-11 AM) offer the best experience with smaller crowds and fully stocked shelves. Fall (September-October) is peak season for pumpkin picking and apple cider donuts, while spring brings beautiful flowers and strawberry season.
What to Know
Free admission and parking, though you'll pay for what you pick or purchase. The farm is mostly accessible with stroller-friendly paths, though the pumpkin patch can be bumpy. Restrooms available on-site, and you can grab sandwiches from the deli along with ice cream for a quick lunch.
Seasonal Notes
Peak visiting season is fall (September-October) for pumpkin picking and harvest activities. Spring offers strawberry picking and beautiful greenhouse displays. Winter months focus more on the farmstand, bakery, and holiday wreaths. Check their website or call ahead for specific picking schedules as they vary by crop availability.
Nearby Eats
Sweetgreen (4 miles away in Chestnut Hill) offers healthy, customizable salads and bowls kids can build themselves. For a classic family meal, try Skip Jack's (3 miles away) for fish and chips and other casual seafood that's reliably kid-friendly.
More Activities Near Needham
Needham Community Farm
Needham Community Farm is a delightful working farm where kids can experience hands-on agriculture in action. Children can pick their own seasonal produce, meet friendly farm animals, and learn about sustainable farming practices through engaging educational programs that bring the farm-to-table concept to life.
Broad Meadow
Broad Meadow offers families a peaceful escape into nature with easy-to-navigate boardwalk trails that wind through beautiful wetlands. The elevated walkways make it accessible for strollers and little legs, while the environmental education programs provide hands-on learning opportunities that turn a simple nature walk into an exciting outdoor classroom adventure.
Rosemary Lake
Rosemary Lake is a beloved Needham gem offering families the perfect summer day escape with its sandy beach, designated swimming area, and well-maintained playground. This scenic town beach combines all the essentials for a memorable family outing,from building sandcastles on the shore to splashing in the calm lake waters, all complemented by shaded picnic areas perfect for a leisurely lunch.
Cutler Park Reservation
Cutler Park Reservation offers families an accessible introduction to wetland exploration with easy, stroller-friendly boardwalks winding through beautiful Charles River marshlands. Kids will love spotting turtles, herons, and ducks while walking the gentle trails, making it perfect for little naturalists who aren't quite ready for rugged hiking.