From farms to local cultural gems, 19 top spots to enjoy spring flowers

Spring has sprung and now we are all looking for evidence of this new season. Even though it’s still gloomy out, we all know that flowers have a way of lifting our spirits. So, where do we find them? Sadly, the fabulous flower shows of old have all disappeared. Macy’s flower show, that filled its main floor with the scents of spring, is gone. The Flower and Garden Show at Navy Pier no longer exists either. So, where do we go?

The Flower Show at the Garfield Conservatory is still going strong and runs through May 12. Reservations are free and required to enter. (More info here) And there is a huge variety of farm festivals where you can pick tulips and sunflowers and even enjoy lavender pies! See list below (credit Chicago Parent, article by Cheryl Eugenio, “Beautiful Flower Fields Worth the Drive from Chicago,” 3/19/24)

Here are some other prime locations nearby to experience this seasonal spectacle:

• Lincoln Park Conservatory: This oasis in the heart of the city has a variety of exotic plants and flowers, including vibrant orchids and tropical blooms.

• Chicago Botanic Garden: 385 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, showcasing everything from tulips to cherry blossoms.

• Lurie Garden: This urban oasis in Millennium Park offers a mix of perennial flowers, grasses, and shrubs, providing a serene escape.

• Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool: A hidden gem in Lincoln Park, where you'll find a tranquil pond surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers.

• Grant Park: Discover seasonal floral displays, including beds of daffodils and tulips.

And here are some great suggestions from Chicago Parent on this year’s exciting festivals and farm events for 2024!

• Richardson Farm Tulip Festival: Opens mid-April 2024, 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove, Cost: 2024 pricing TBA. (This is my personal favorite!)

• Midwest Tulip Fest: Opens April 27, 2024, 1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park; Cost: $15.99 online, $17.99 at the gate (Monday-Friday); $17.99 online, $19.99 at the gate (weekends).

• Kuiper’s Family Farm: Tulip Fest begins April 27- May 19, 2024, 1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park, IL, weekdays $15.99 and weekends $17.99.

• Holland Tulip Time Festival: Runs through May 4-12, 2024; Holland, Michigan; Cost: Varies by location and event.

• Nettle Creek Lavender Farm: Opens mid-June 2024; Address: 8255 Pioneer Road, Morris; Cost: Pick your own is $8 per bouquet (appointment only).

• New Life Lavender and Cherry Farm: Opens mid-June 2024; Address: E10766 County Road W, Baraboo, Wisconsin; Cost: $5.50 per person, free for kids ages 5 and under.

• Tom’s Farm Market: Opens March 18, 2024. Sunflowers typically bloom in July. Address: 10214 Algonquin Road, Huntley; Cost: $12.00.

• Stade’s Farm and Market – Pick-Your-Own Sunflowers:  Opens July 2024; Address: 3709 Miller Road, McHenry; Cost: $2 each sunflower, $5 for 3 sunflowers.

• Thompson Strawberry Farm – Pick Your Own Sunflowers: Opens mid-July 2024; Address: 6621 156th Ave., Bristol; Cost: 2024 prices TBA. Children under 3 are free. 

• Keller’s Farmstand: Opens mid-July 2024; Address: 2500 Johnson Road, Oswego; Cost: $20/quart jar.

• Von Bergen’s Country Market Sunflower Festival: Opens July 2024; Address: 9805 IL-173, Hebron; Cost: $12/person. Children ages 3 and under are free. 

• Harvest Tyme Family Farm: Sunflower Festival: Opens Sept. 7-8 & 14-15, 2024; Address:17904 Grant St., Lowell, Indiana; Cost: $2/sunflower, $10/6 sunflowers, $18/12 sunflowers, $20/mason jar.

• Richardson Sunflower Festival: 2024 dates TBA; Address: 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove; Cost: 2024 pricing TBA

With these enchanting locations, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of springtime blooms across Chicagoland and beyond. Here’s to a joyous new season!