Most sunflower fields and farms are only open during certain seasons. And while sunflowers represent long life and lasting happiness, if you blink, you just might miss when these bright yellow flowers are in bloom. But time your visits carefully, and you’ll be treated to a picture-perfect sea of yellow and green. According to seventh-generation farmer Chris Eckert of Eckert’s Farm in Versailles, KY, sunflowers are at their peak for only about 10 to 14 days!
Whether you’re interested in an idyllic summer photo background or want to learn about sunflower farming, here are a dozen places around the South we’d suggest checking out. Just be sure to verify that sunflowers are at their peak before you visit.
Burnside Farms | Nokesville, VA
More info: burnsidefarms.com
Burnside Farms boasts more than 30 kinds of cutting sunflowers, planted in succession to ensure a month of blooms every year. After you’ve picked your bouquet of flowers, pop over to Effingham Manor Winery to sample award-winning wines.
Coastal Ridge Farm | Picayune, MS
More info: coastalridgefarm.com
Coastal Ridge Farm offers sunflowers, zinnias, poppies, daisies, and more. While you’re in the area, make a stop at Crosby Arboretum for even more flora. As the premier native plant conservatory in the Southeast, it gives the public a space to enjoy some of the plant species that are native to the Pearl River Drainage Basin of south-central Mississippi and Louisiana.
Eckert’s Farm | Versailles, KY
More info: eckerts.com
There’s lots to do at Eckert’s, from picking fruit and flowers to traversing the corn maze or bringing little ones to the playground. But if you still have time to spare after your farm trip, make a stop at the Woodford Reserve Distillery. Take a walking tour to learn all about the historic location, or experience an interactive tasting with award-winning whiskeys.
Evans Orchard and Cider Mill | Georgetown, KY
More info: evansorchard.com
There’s a gift store, market, and cafe to add to your flower-picking fun at Evans Orchard and Cider Mill. If you have time to venture out and explore a bit more of the Bluegrass, visit Old Friends, a nonprofit thoroughbred retirement center. You’ll get up close with former racehorses who are happily living out their golden years in the Commonwealth.
Fausett Farms | Dawsonville, GA
More info: faucetfarmssunflowers.com
After visiting this poultry farm-turned-flower field, traverse more than 1,500 acres of mountainous terrain at Amicalola Falls State Park. Home to the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River, the site also offers lodging accommodations and ziplining.
Mick Farms | Saint Cloud, FL
More info: mickfarmsmarket.com
Shop for fresh fruit, veggies, and more at this small, first-generation family farm, then head to Deseret Ranches to see another gorgeous landscape as well as several species of wildlife. Tours are typically available Monday through Saturday and can be scheduled in advance.
Sledd’s U-Pick Farm | Way Mims, FL
More info: facebook.com
If you happen to get out of the unique sunflower maze at Sledd’s U-Pick Farm in time, consider checking out the White Sands Buddhist Center. Guests are welcome to roam the grounds and shop the gift shop. Guided tours are also available.
Smith-Perry Berries | Ooltewah, TN
More info: smithperryberries.com
Pose with flowers and pick fresh berries at Smith-Perry Berries, then grab lunch at Ooltewah Whistle Stop. The vintage-inspired cafe specializes in comfort foods and specialty crafted milkshakes, and pays homage to the original historic Ooltewah Depot.
Southern Hill Farms | Clermont, FL
More info: southernhillfarms.com
In addition to flowers and fruit, Southern Hill Farms features a kids’ zone with bounce houses, obstacle courses, and a giant slide. For more outdoor fun, make a stop at Lake Louisa State Park. The 4,500-acre space offers guided horseback rides, kayak eco-tours, fishing, hiking, biking, and more.
Stanley Pond Adventure Farm | Astatula, FL
More info: stanleypondfarm.com
The name says it all — Stanley Pond Adventure Farm offers a full day of fun, with a plethora of kid-friendly activities as well as all-you-can-catch fishing. But if you have time to explore Astatula, check out Clay Island Trail. The rural area is a great spot for birding.
The Homestead Farm | Winchester, VA
More info: thehomesteadfarmatfruithillorchard.com
Be sure to stop by The Homestead Farm’s bakery for made-from-scratch pies, cakes, cookies, bars, and breads. Then experience Shenandoah Valley via Rocking S Ranch. Horseback riding lessons and trail hikes are available for novices and experts alike.
The Sunflower Fields at Neuse River Greenway Trail | Raleigh, NC
More info: visitraleigh.com
After peeping at the only public sunflower field on our list, make your way to Pullen Park. One of the world’s oldest amusement parks, it is known for its wealth of recreational activities. Take a ride on a 100-year-old carousel, ride a miniature train, ride a pedal boat on the lake, or take advantage of the various sports courts and fields.
Can you think of a more cheerful way to spend a summer day?
**********
For travel inspiration, interior design trends, recipes, and more — subscribe to StyleBlueprint’s daily emails!
