Thompson Farm & Nursery

Our take

Thompson Farm’s main draw is Norma’s Play Area—six acres with 20+ activities packed into one location. For families with toddlers through early elementary kids, that concentrated activity space justifies a longer visit and drives the real value proposition. The pumpkin patch, tractor wagon rides, and farm animal feeding are expected anchors, but the play area is what transforms a 90-minute stop into a 3-4 hour outing.

The farm operates seven weekend sessions between September 19 and November 1, with October 24–25 marked as their Super Spectacular Weekend. That weekend-only model means demand concentrates into Saturday and Sunday traffic. Early October is quieter than late October, and arriving early (if you can learn the opening time by calling) beats arriving after 1pm. The Super Spectacular weekend will draw extra visitors looking for special activities, so expect lines and more competition for shade and preferred play spots.

Pricing, Admission, and What’s Included

The website advertises early promotions ($10 OFF Fall Season Passes, $2 OFF General Admission), but current 2026 pricing isn’t posted. A phone call to 843.236.1400 or an email to info@thompsonfarmandnursery.com will get you a firm quote. When you call, ask what activities are included in the gate price and which (if any) are à la carte add-ons. Many farms include a small pumpkin in admission and charge extra for larger sizes; others charge pumpkin selection separately from activity admission.

Time, Crowds, and What to Expect

Three to four hours is realistic if your family engages with the play area. The corn maze and wagon rides together run 45 minutes; animal interactions and photo stops add another 30–45 minutes. If you’re just grabbing a pumpkin and riding the wagon, 90 minutes is possible. The play area is the real time sink—kids will want to return to favorite activities multiple times.

The Super Spectacular weekend will draw larger crowds and may have special entertainment or character appearances. Call the farm to ask what’s special that weekend so you can set expectations.

Lowcountry Location and Practical Notes

Conway is in Horry County’s coastal plain, so expect warm October afternoons and sandy soil typical of the region. Mosquitoes are active through September and into early October, making bug spray a practical carry. The farm lot is likely unpaved, so wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty, and bring a towel if it rained recently.

The Hours Dilemma

The single most likely detail to catch a visitor out is the lack of published hours. The farm may keep different hours than the gate opening and closing times, or they might have extended hours on the Super Spectacular weekend. Call 843.236.1400 before you leave home. Five minutes on the phone saves a wasted 45-minute drive.