Ellms Family Farm

Located on Charlton Road in Saratoga, NY, Ellms Family Farm has been a local staple since its first Christmas tree season in 1990. Driving to Ellms Family Farm from Albany is a snap and typically takes less than an hour. Make a trip of it by taking in memorable vistas and stops along the way. The scenic Adirondack Northway takes you through Albany, Troy, and Clifton Park before stopping for an early evening dinner at The Ripe Tomato in Ballston Spa.

Ellms Farm Pumpkin Glow

Both fall and winter are wonderful times to visit Ellms Family Farm. One of the top attractions in the fall is the Ellms Farm Pumpkin Glow. Each October, the farm and local artists work together to hand-carve pumpkins in a variety of styles. Visitors can drive through the Pumpkin Glow experience in their own cars to enjoy some kid-friendly Halloween fun.

More Fall Activities at Ellms Family Farm

While the Pumpkin Glow lights up the night, daytime activities at Ellms Family Farm are extensive. Kids of all ages can enjoy picking their own pumpkins from the pumpkin patch, enjoy some classic cider donuts, and then get lost in a corn maze. A variety of activities are specifically designed for kids to burn off some Halloween energy. From giant building blocks and a tractor tire mountain to paintball, pumpkin bowling, and a ropes course, the activities leave visitors with no time to be bored.

Christmas at Ellms Family Farm

Although the farm has expanded to include celebrated fall activities, there is nothing quite like Christmas at Ellms Family Farm. The first Christmas trees were planted on the property in 1984, and the numbers have increased each year. Today, the Christmas tree farm includes 240 acres of mature trees, ponds, and other forest.

Families who visit during Christmas can choose from freshly cut trees and wreaths, or they can select and cut down their own trees. The price of every tree includes hot chocolate, trolley rides, and tree preparations like shaking, bailing, and drilling to make sure the tree is ready to be decorated as soon as you get it home.

Adirondack Northway

The Adirondack Northway is an alternate name for Interstate 87 through the Adirondacks. The route from Albany to Ellms Family Farm crosses the Thaddeus Kosciuszko Bridge over the Mohawk River and offers plenty of lush forest views for the duration of the drive. Visitors can easily stop off in Troy, Latham, or Ballston on their way to the farm.

The Ripe Tomato

Located on State Route 9 in Ballston Spa, The Ripe Tomato is a beloved local restaurant that serves up Italian and American fare for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The family-owned spot is a favorite of all ages and has an ambience with a roadhouse feel that seems plucked right out of American history. Diners can choose from a table in the cozy dining room or sit in the adjacent taproom for a drink and nibbles after a long day at the farm.