Edmonton Corn Maze: A Fun-Filled Outdoor Adventure for Families

A Visitor’s Guide to the Edmonton Corn Maze: Outdoor Fun, Attractions, and Seasonal Events

The Edmonton Corn Maze is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for outdoor adventure, family fun, and a unique way to enjoy the fall season. Located just outside the city in Parkland County, the Edmonton Corn Maze is famous for its sprawling, intricate maze made entirely from corn stalks, offering a challenge to visitors of all ages as they navigate the twisting paths. Every year, the design of the maze changes, often featuring fun shapes or messages when viewed from above, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience.

In addition to the maze, the site offers a variety of seasonal activities, including a petting zoo, giant jumping pillows, hayrides, and more. Open from mid-summer through the fall, the Edmonton Corn Maze is a perfect way to spend a day outdoors with friends or family.

An Iconic Fall Attraction for the Edmonton Area

Since opening in 2001, the Edmonton Corn Maze has become one of the region’s favorite fall attractions. Each year, the maze is carved into a massive cornfield, with new designs, themes, and fun challenges for visitors to solve. While it’s a popular destination during the autumn harvest season, the maze is open from July to October, giving people plenty of time to enjoy the maze, farm activities, and seasonal events.

What to See and Do at the Edmonton Corn Maze

1. The Corn Maze:
   • The centerpiece of the Edmonton Corn Maze is, of course, its giant corn maze, which spans several acres and features a new design each year. The maze is designed to be challenging but fun, with twists, turns, and dead ends that keep visitors on their toes.
   • Navigating the Maze:
     • Visitors are given a map of the maze, which includes clues to help them navigate. The goal is to find all the checkpoints hidden within the maze, solving a puzzle or answering trivia questions along the way. It typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour to complete the maze, though the time may vary depending on how well you can navigate the paths.
   • Family-Friendly Fun:
     • While the maze is fun for all ages, it’s designed to be family-friendly, so children can participate without getting frustrated. Parents and kids can work together to find their way out, making it a great bonding activity.
2. Farm Animals and Petting Zoo:
   • The Edmonton Corn Maze is home to a variety of farm animals, which are a big hit with younger visitors. The petting zoo allows kids to get up close to animals such as goats, sheep, chickens, and rabbits.
   • Meet the Animals:
     • Visitors can feed or pet the animals, and farm staff are often on hand to answer questions and share fun facts about the animals. It’s a great opportunity for kids to learn about farm life and animal care.
3. Giant Jumping Pillows and Playground:
   • One of the most popular attractions at the Edmonton Corn Maze is the giant jumping pillows, where kids (and adults!) can bounce to their heart’s content. These large, inflatable pillows are similar to trampolines and are a fun way for children to burn off some energy.
   • Playground Area:
     • In addition to the jumping pillows, the site has a playground area with slides, swings, and other play equipment that’s perfect for younger children.
4. Hayrides:
   • Visitors can enjoy a relaxing hayride around the farm, taking in the sights and sounds of the countryside. The hayride is a great way to explore the farm, especially for those looking for a more leisurely activity. During the fall, the rides often have a festive feel, with pumpkin patches and autumn decorations scattered around the property.
5. Pumpkin Patch (Seasonal):
   • During the fall season, the Edmonton Corn Maze features a pumpkin patch where visitors can pick their own pumpkins to take home for decorating or carving. It’s a favorite activity for families looking to get into the Halloween spirit, and the farm offers a wide variety of pumpkins in different shapes and sizes.
   • Fall Festivals:
     • In addition to pumpkin picking, the farm hosts several fall festivals in September and October, with themed activities like pumpkin carving, costume contests, and family games. These events add an extra layer of fun to the corn maze experience.
6. Sunflower Fields:
   • During the late summer, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the sunflower fields, which bloom around the maze. The fields offer a stunning backdrop for photos, and many visitors come just to see the sunflowers in full bloom.
   • Photo Opportunities:
     • The sunflower fields and the maze itself provide plenty of opportunities for great photos. The farm encourages visitors to snap pictures with friends and family in front of the corn, pumpkins, or sunflowers.
7. Corn Cannon and Other Farm Fun:
   • The Edmonton Corn Maze offers other farm-themed activities, such as the corn cannon, where visitors can fire ears of corn at targets for fun. It’s a light-hearted activity that kids and adults alike can enjoy, adding to the overall farm experience.
8. Seasonal Events and Night Mazes:
   • During certain times of the year, the Edmonton Corn Maze hosts special events like nighttime maze experiences, where visitors can explore the maze after dark with flashlights. These night mazes add an extra layer of excitement and are perfect for groups of friends looking for a more adventurous outing.
   • Halloween Events:
     • In the weeks leading up to Halloween, the maze is often decorated with spooky themes, and there are events like trick-or-treating, costume parades, and even haunted maze nights for those who enjoy a bit of fright with their fall fun.
9. Snack Shack and Farm Store:
   • After exploring the maze and enjoying the activities, visitors can grab a snack at the Snack Shack, which offers a variety of treats, drinks, and light meals. Popular options include ice cream, hot dogs, and fresh lemonade.
   • Farm Store:
     • The farm store offers a selection of locally made products, including honey, jams, syrups, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up some farm-fresh goodies or a memento of your visit.

How to Get There

The Edmonton Corn Maze is located just west of Edmonton, making it an easy and convenient day trip for those in the city.

• Address: 26171 Garden Valley Rd, Spruce Grove, AB T7Y 1B3
• Public Transport: The maze is best reached by car, as it is located in Parkland County. It’s about a 20-minute drive from west Edmonton.
• Parking: Free parking is available on-site.

Visiting Hours and Admission

The Edmonton Corn Maze is open seasonally from late July to October, with special events and activities throughout the fall. The maze typically opens in the afternoon and closes in the evening, with extended hours during special events.

• Hours: Typically open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (hours may vary seasonally).
• Admission Fees: Admission fees apply, with discounts for children and seniors. Group rates are also available for larger parties.
• Official Website: Edmonton Corn Maze

Best Time to Visit

The Edmonton Corn Maze is open from mid-summer through October, but each season offers something different:

• Summer (July to August): Ideal for sunny days, when the maze is in full bloom and the sunflower fields are at their peak.
• Fall (September to October): The best time for fall festivities like pumpkin picking, hayrides, and Halloween-themed events.

A Must-Visit for Families and Outdoor Enthusiasts

Whether you’re navigating the corn maze, bouncing on the giant pillows, or picking the perfect pumpkin, the Edmonton Corn Maze offers a fun and memorable outdoor adventure for visitors of all ages. With its family-friendly atmosphere, beautiful farm setting, and seasonal activities, the corn maze is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Alberta’s autumn.