Unearth The Voyage
Florida might not be famous for fall leaves, but Sykes Family Farms in Elkton offers something even better – a massive corn maze adventure that rivals anything up north. This hidden gem transforms 9 acres into a twisting puzzle that challenges families while providing wholesome entertainment. From October through early November, visitors discover why this working farm has become Northeast Florida’s premier autumn destination.
1. Navigate the Massive 9-Acre Corn Maze Challenge
Stretching across nine full acres, this isn’t your typical backyard corn maze. The towering stalks create natural walls that twist and turn through four distinct phases, each more challenging than the last.
Dead ends appear when you least expect them, while multiple pathways keep families guessing which direction leads to victory. The maze designers cleverly crafted routes that prevent anyone from getting truly lost while maintaining the thrill of exploration.
2. Use Your Passport Quiz to Find the Right Path
Every visitor receives a special “passport” containing ten strategic questions at the entrance. Answer these correctly, and they’ll guide your route through the maze’s trickiest sections.
This clever system transforms wandering into purposeful exploration, giving families a mission beyond simply finding the exit. Kids especially love the treasure hunt feeling as they search for clues scattered throughout the maze pathways.
3. Plan Your Visit During Peak Season Dates
Mark your calendars for October 4th through November 2nd, when the maze operates exclusively on weekends. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays offer the only chances to experience this seasonal attraction.
The limited schedule creates urgency, so booking ahead prevents disappointment. Weather conditions during these weeks typically provide comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor family adventures without Florida’s summer heat and humidity.
4. Master the Weekend Operating Hours
Friday evenings run from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, perfect for after-school adventures. Saturdays offer the longest window, operating 10:00 AM through 10:00 PM for maximum flexibility.
Sunday visits wrap up earlier at 5:00 PM, ideal for weekend day trips. Remember that last entry occurs one hour before closing, so arrive with plenty of time to fully explore the maze and other attractions.
5. Budget for Affordable Family Admission Prices
General admission costs $16.99 plus taxes and fees for ages 3 to 64, making it budget-friendly for most families. Seniors over 65 and military personnel with identification receive discounted rates of $14.99.
Children under three enter completely free, perfect for families with toddlers. This pricing includes access to numerous attractions beyond the maze, delivering exceptional value for a full day of entertainment.
6. Enjoy Multiple Included Attractions Beyond the Maze
Your admission ticket unlocks far more than just maze access. Hayrides transport families around the property while children’s play zones provide safe entertainment for younger visitors.
The cow train delights kids of all ages, while duck races add unexpected excitement. Farm animals, teeter-totters, and hands-on milking stations create educational opportunities that city families rarely experience elsewhere.
7. Experience Special Glow Nights on Fridays
Friday evenings transform into magical “Glow Nights” with extended hours until 10:00 PM. The maze takes on entirely different characteristics after dark, requiring flashlights or glow sticks for navigation.
Each group must bring at least one light source for safety during nighttime exploration. The mysterious atmosphere creates unforgettable memories as familiar pathways become thrilling adventures under starlight and artificial illumination.
8. Purchase Fresh Pumpkins and Pick Your Own Flowers
The working farm offers seasonal shopping opportunities beyond admission activities. You-Pick flower fields feature beautiful sunflowers perfect for family photos and home decorating.
Pumpkin painting stations let kids create personalized jack-o’-lanterns, while the pumpkin barn stocks various sizes for every need. These additional purchases support the family farm while providing authentic agricultural experiences for urban visitors.
9. Satisfy Hunger with On-Site Food Vendors
Nobody leaves hungry thanks to diverse food vendors scattered throughout the property. Classic fair favorites like funnel cakes and kettle corn satisfy sweet cravings perfectly.
Hamburgers and other substantial options fuel families for hours of maze exploration. Sunday visits feature special vendor markets with additional shopping and dining choices, creating mini-festival atmospheres that enhance the overall experience.
10. Know the Location and Accessibility Details
Located at 5995 Brough Road in Elkton, Florida, the farm sits conveniently near St. Augustine for easy day trip planning. The grounds accommodate most wheelchair users, though calling ahead ensures optimal conditions.
Important rules include no smoking anywhere on property and service animals only. Contact them at (904) 692-1370 for specific accessibility questions or weather-related updates before traveling.
