Jerry Smith Farm Celebrates 50 Years of Family Traditions in Kenosha, Wisconsin
A Family Tradition Since 1975
What began in 1975 as a humble roadside table where Jerry and Rosemary Smith sold their homegrown vegetables has blossomed into one of the Midwest's most beloved agritourism destinations. For 50 years, families from Wisconsin, Illinois, and beyond have made the trip to Kenosha to experience the magic of Jerry Smith Farm.
Located just between Milwaukee and Chicago, the farm has become a fall tradition for generations, offering family-friendly fun, Rosemary's iconic hand-painted pumpkin displays, and the warm welcome of the Smith family.
A Look Back at 50 Years of Jerry Smith Farm
In 1978, the original table of fresh vegetables grew into the Country Store, where visitors could purchase seasonal produce, baked goods, and treats. Around the same time, Rosemary Smith began her cherished tradition of creating hand-painted pumpkin displays, inspired by storybooks, movies, and television. These imaginative displays quickly became a must-see, delighting kids and parents year after year.
In 2013, Jerry and Rosemary's son Joe and his wife Amy purchased the farm to continue the legacy. In 2023, their daughter Lauren returned to help manage operations and carry on the traditions that Rosemary began nearly five decades ago. Today, three generations of the Smith family remain actively involved, from Jerry himself driving the tractor to Joe's sisters pitching in every fall.
Fall 2025: Celebrating 50 Years
This year is extra special as Jerry Smith Farm celebrates its 50th anniversary. For five decades, families have said, "Jerry Smith Farm feels like our farm too." The Smith family is grateful to share this milestone with the community and can't wait to welcome visitors back for another season of fall fun.
Opening weekend is September 13, 2025, and the farm will remain open daily through November 2, 2025.
Free Experiences at Jerry Smith Farm
Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of free fall activities, perfect for family outings, date days, or weekend trips from Chicago or Milwaukee:
- Hand-painted fall displays created by the Smith family
- Scenic photo ops across the farm
- The iconic Giant Pumpkin Tower
- Friendly farm animals in the animal pen
- Free parking
- Access to the Country Store stocked with seasonal goods
Paid Activities for All Ages
For families looking for even more adventure, Jerry Smith Farm offers an acres of fun activity area (wristbands required), featuring:
- Hayrides through the farm fields
- Bounce pads for kids
- A corn maze
- Pedal carts
- Tire Mountain and straw maze
- Kids' playgrounds and bubble tables
- Basketball court
- Petting zoo (food cups for animals available for purchase)
- Camel and pony rides ($10 per ride)
- Haunted Forest ($15 admission, cash only)
- Rubber Duck Races ($1 per duck)
- Paintball Shooting Gallery ($10 per cup, ~80 balls)
Food and Refreshments
After a full day of exploring, relax at Smitty's Beverage Garden, where you'll find:
- The farm's famous Bloody Marys
- A rotating selection of domestic and craft beers
- Hard seltzers
- Premium mixers
And for those needing a caffeine boost, skip the long lines at the coffee shop and stop by the farm's Coffee Shack, offering your favorite hot and iced drinks right on site.
Plan Your Visit
Jerry Smith Farm is open daily September 13 – November 2, 2025. Hours vary on weekdays, weekends, and special event days, so be sure to check the Fall Events Page for up-to-date hours.
Location: 7150 18th Street (Highway L), Kenosha, WI — just minutes from I-94, centrally located between Milwaukee and Chicago.
Whether you're coming for the free hand-painted displays, the acres of fun activities, or the nostalgic tradition of celebrating fall at a true family farm, Jerry Smith Farm is ready to make your visit unforgettable.
Join Us for 50 Years of Tradition
For half a century, Jerry Smith Farm has been more than a place to pick pumpkins — it has been a place where families make memories, neighbors connect, and traditions are passed from one generation to the next.
We look forward to welcoming you back this fall to celebrate 50 years of family, fun, and farm life. See you at the farm!
