There’s a new maze in town—and it’s much more than just another seasonal attraction. This fall, Shamrock Christmas Tree Farm (20685 Main Road, Mattituck, 631-298-4619) will unveil what is believed to be the largest evergreen hedge maze in the continental United States.
The 2.3-acre maze is made entirely of arborvitae hedges and has been years in the making. The project began in 2018 when the land was cleared; the hedges were planted the following year.
“I wanted to do something different—not something cookie-cutter like everyone else,” says Jonathan Shipman, whose family has operated a tree business since the mid-1970s and established the Christmas tree farm in 1989.
Designed with accessibility in mind, the maze features pathways wide enough for golf carts. At its center is a spacious gathering area complete with a large brick fireplace and enough room to host special events.
The maze is scheduled to open on September 26. Visitors will receive a scavenger hunt checklist and can search for hidden items placed throughout the maze’s dead ends. Admission pricing has not yet been determined.
According to Shipman, the Mattituck attraction spans 2.3 acres, making it second in size only to the Pineapple Garden Maze at Hawaii’s Dole Plantation, which covers more than three acres and is considered the largest maze in the United States — and possibly the world.
The new maze adds another attraction to the farm’s popular fall season. Guests can also enjoy pumpkin picking, snacks and beverages by the fire pits, and rides on the farm’s mini train, which circles the property.
“The maze really complements the Christmas tree farm,” Shipman says. “When I first drew the design on graph paper in 2018, my father was shocked. We intentionally made it wide so people in wheelchairs and larger groups could enjoy it.”
Shipman operates Shamrock’s pumpkin patch and maze while helping run the Christmas tree farm alongside his brother and mother. Farming is a family tradition that continues into the next generation.
“I’ve been working on the farm since I was 10 years old,” he says. “Now my two nine-year-old boys help with the mowing.”
Shamrock Christmas Tree Farm will open September 26 for maze adventures and pumpkin picking, remaining open through Halloween. The farm will then close briefly before reopening the day after Thanksgiving for the Christmas tree season.
For more information, check Shamrock’s website and Instagram.
