Gilcrease Orchard is Starting Their Fall Schedule Soon

A Slice of Rural Life in Las Vegas

Gilcrease Orchard is a hidden gem in North Las Vegas, offering a unique blend of agricultural experience and family-friendly activities. Established in 1920 by the Gilcrease family, this 66-acre orchard is a testament to the family's dedication to farming and community engagement, having transitioned from a vast 900-acre farm to its current size due to various challenges over the decades. The orchard is now managed by the Gilcrease Orchard Foundation, which aims to preserve the legacy of the Gilcrease family while providing educational and recreational opportunities for visitors.


Activities at Gilcrease Orchard

Visitors to Gilcrease Orchard can enjoy a variety of activities throughout the year, making it a perfect destination for families and individuals alike:


  • U-Pick Produce: Depending on the season, guests can pick their own fruits and vegetables, including peaches, pears, apples, pomegranates, tomatoes, and more. The experience of harvesting fresh produce is both fun and educational, allowing visitors to connect with their food source.
  • Pumpkin Patch: During the fall, the orchard features a pumpkin patch where families can pick their pumpkins. This seasonal attraction typically opens in late September and runs through October, offering a festive atmosphere for all ages.
  • Cider and Donuts: A highlight of visiting Gilcrease Orchard is the opportunity to enjoy freshly made apple cider and delicious cinnamon-sugared donuts, especially popular during the fall season. The cider is made without added sugars or preservatives, showcasing the natural flavors of the fruit.
  • Wagon Rides and Hay Maze: On select days, visitors can take wagon rides around the orchard, and during the fall season, a hay maze is set up for children to explore, adding to the seasonal fun.
  • Educational Experiences: The orchard is not just about picking produce; it also aims to educate visitors about agriculture and healthy eating. The Gilcrease family envisioned the orchard as a place for children to learn about where their food comes from, fostering a sense of appreciation for the land and its bounty.


Visiting Information

Gilcrease Orchard is located at 7800 N Tenaya Way, Las Vegas, NV 89131. The hours of operation vary by season:


Summer Hours: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 7 AM to 10 AM

Fall Hours (Beginning September 24th): Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 7 AM to 2 PM


Admission to the orchard is free during the summer, but during the fall season, tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets are $3 for weekdays, and $5 for weekends. For the fall season, tickets go on sale September 14th. Visitors are encouraged to bring reusable bags for their produce and wear comfortable shoes, as the orchard covers a significant area and is primarily dirt paths.


Gilcrease Orchard stands out as a unique agricultural experience in the heart of the desert, offering a slice of farm life amidst the urban landscape. With its rich history, diverse activities, and commitment to community education, it serves as a wonderful destination for families looking to enjoy the outdoors while learning about sustainable farming practices. Whether you're picking fresh produce, enjoying a wagon ride, or savoring delicious cider and donuts, a visit to Gilcrease Orchard promises a delightful day out in nature.

February 19, 2025
In today’s fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget the simple things that make life meaningful. One of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, ways to enrich our lives is by expressing gratitude. Whether it's sending a handwritten thank you card, picking up the phone to call a loved one, or simply acknowledging someone's kindness, these small acts have big benefits for both the giver and the receiver! 1. Improves Mental Health Expressing gratitude can have a positive impact on your mental well-being. Studies show that taking the time to acknowledge and appreciate what others do for you can lower stress and improve your overall mood. When you send a thank you note or call someone to express your appreciation, you foster positive emotions that help shift your mindset toward optimism. 2. Strengthens Relationships A heartfelt "thank you" can go a long way in maintaining and deepening your relationships. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or colleague, showing gratitude makes the recipient feel valued and recognized. A quick phone call or a note saying "I appreciate you" can create a stronger bond and encourage more positive interactions in the future. 3. Cultivates a Culture of Kindness  By expressing gratitude, you're setting an example for those around you. It’s contagious! When you take the time to appreciate others, you're encouraging a culture of kindness and appreciation in your community. Small gestures like sending thank you cards can inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of positivity. In Conclusion Expressing gratitude doesn’t require grand gestures. A thank you card, a quick call, or a heartfelt message can transform your relationships and improve your own well-being. The power of gratitude is undeniable—small acts of appreciation can have a lasting impact, creating a more positive and connected world for everyone. So, go ahead—reach out, say thank you, and feel the benefits in return.
February 12, 2025
We’re sure you’ve heard about Punxsutawney Phil of Pennsylvania, but did you know Nevada has its own unique way of signaling the arrival of spring in the desert? His name is Mojave Max! Mojave Max, a tortoise residing at the Springs Preserve in Las Vegas, acts as a local mascot for the desert tortoise conservation program. Katrina Smith, the Senior Zoologist at the preserve, explains that Mojave Max's emergence is rooted in biology rather than folklore. Unlike a rodent seeing its shadow, which holds no real significance, the emergence of a desert tortoise is a biological event. For Max, the temperature inside his burrow must reach a certain threshold before he becomes active. This signals the warming weather, the blooming of flowers, and the increase in wildlife activity. When he emerges, it marks the official arrival of spring! Over the past two years, Max has emerged in late March, and his return has become a highly anticipated event. For over 25 years, local elementary students have been participating in the Mojave Max Emergence Contest, guessing the date of his big appearance.  Mojave Max's emergence serves as a reminder that spring in the desert is not just a season, but a living, breathing change in the environment that calls for our attention and care!
February 7, 2025
Essential Information for Protecting Your Belongings
More Posts
Share by: