Just a short drive south of Olympia, Washington, lies a five-acre wonder that draws families, thrill-seekers, and curious visitors every fall—the Rutledge Corn Maze. Nestled in Tumwater near the Olympia Regional Airport, this seasonal attraction has become a beloved tradition for locals and tourists alike since it first opened in 2000. More than just a puzzle made of corn stalks, the Rutledge Corn Maze offers education, entertainment, and unforgettable memories—all set against the golden hues of autumn in the Pacific Northwest.
The maze is crafted from tall, dense corn plants grown specifically for this purpose. Unlike older methods where designs were cut into already-grown fields, the Rutledge family uses cutting-edge GPS technology to plant the entire corn maze pattern directly into the field. A specialized tractor guided by satellite coordinates plants the seeds in precise formations over just eight hours. This technique—pioneered at Rutledge—ensures crisp lines and intricate details that can only be fully appreciated from above. In fact, the family partners with Glacier Aviation each year to capture aerial photos of the finished maze, revealing stunning artwork visible only from the sky.
Each season brings a new theme. Past Rutledge Corn Maze designs have included the Washington State Capitol, the Statue of Liberty, a firetruck, a pirate ship, and even Seahawks star Marshawn Lynch during a special charity event in 2012. That year, the maze featured “Beast Mode” in bold letters alongside Lynch carrying a football—a tribute that drew fans from across the state. More recently, the corn maze partnered with Experience Olympia & Beyond to highlight the Thurston County Bountiful Byway, a scenic 60-mile route connecting farms, wineries, and farmers markets. Inside the maze, visitors encounter checkpoints with fun facts about local agriculture and history, turning the adventure into a learning experience.
Walking through the Rutledge Corn Maze feels like stepping into a living labyrinth. Towering corn stalks block your view in every direction, creating a sense of playful disorientation. Families laugh as they consult maps (or not!), kids race ahead to find the next clue, and friends challenge each other to beat their best time. The path winds, splits, and sometimes leads to dead ends—but that’s all part of the fun. For many children, it’s their first real encounter with farm life. “Some kids don’t even know goats produce milk,” says Robby Rutledge, who runs the farm with his family. “It’s all about educating the public while having fun.”
Beyond the corn maze, the Rutledge Family Farm bursts with seasonal activities. During “Fall on the Farm” (typically mid-September through October 31), guests can explore a pumpkin patch, ride hay wagons, roast marshmallows by a firepit, and enjoy fresh apple cider. For those seeking more adrenaline, the Haunted Maze—a separate, after-dark version of the corn maze—offers spine-chilling scares with professional actors and immersive themes. It’s widely regarded as one of the best haunted attractions in the South Sound region.
The Rutledge family has deep roots in the area. Their ancestors arrived via the Oregon Trail in the 1800s and have farmed this land for generations. Originally raising cattle and selling sweet corn at the Olympia Farmers Market, they shifted focus when they realized a corn maze could bring joy—and community—to thousands each year. Now in its third decade, the Rutledge Corn Maze remains family-owned and operated, with a strong commitment to sustainability, local partnerships, and creating traditions.
Visitors come back year after year—not just for the changing design of the maze, but for the warmth of the experience. Staff greet guests with smiles, the air smells of earth and popcorn, and the pace slows down in the best way. Whether you’re navigating the twists of the corn maze, picking the perfect pumpkin, or simply breathing in the crisp fall air, Rutledge Farm offers a rare blend of simplicity and excitement.
Open daily from late September through Halloween, the Rutledge Corn Maze welcomes guests of all ages. Tickets are affordably priced, and season passes allow unlimited visits throughout the fall. Located at 302 93rd Ave SE in Olympia, it’s an easy trip from Tacoma, Seattle, or anywhere in Thurston County.
So if you’re looking for a true Pacific Northwest fall experience—one that combines nature, challenge, and family fun—don’t miss the Rutledge Corn Maze. Just remember: getting lost has never felt this good.
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