Sunflower Dreams: 7 Must-Visit Minnesota Fields for Stunning Blooms”

If you’re in Minnesota and dreaming of strolling through endless rows of golden blossoms, you’re in luck!

Here’s a detailed guide to the top sunflower farms to visit in Minnesota, complete with planning tips, blooming schedules, and unique experiences.

🌻 Top Sunflower Farms Worth the Visit

1. Joyer Adventure Farm at Waldoch Farm (Lino Lakes)

Location: Lino Lakes, near the Twin Cities.
Size & Offerings: Expansive 6-acre sunflower field, part of a larger farm experience (hay rides, low ropes, animals, wine/beer, live music) .
Admission: Typically $10–$15 per person; includes one sunflower to pick; additional blooms for purchase .
Season: Blooms generally from late July through mid‑September, making it a flexible choice .
Ideal For: Family fun with plenty of amenities.

2. Treasured Haven Farm (Rush City)

Location: About an hour north of the Twin Cities along I‑35 in East Central Minnesota.
Size & Features: Organic family farm with hundreds of acres—sunflowers plus woodland trails, creek overlooks, and on-site gift shop .
Cost: Around $20 per car (cash preferred) for unlimited viewing; no admission charge per person .
Season: Continuous bloom from late July to mid-September, thanks to staggered planting .
Ideal For: Nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a scenic escape.

3. Fish Sunflowers (Various Metro Locations)

Locations: Multiple fields in north metro areas (e.g. Gibbon, Andover, Albert Lea); free admission.
Cost: Free—spreading positivity is the mission; visitors encouraged to respect the fields and share their photos .
Season: Bloom times vary across fields; most bloom periods are staggered to extend viewing opportunities .
Ideal For: Budget-conscious visitors, spontaneous photo ops, and casual wandering.

4. Green Barn Garden Center (Isanti)

Location: Isanti, ~40 minutes from St. Paul.
Offerings: Planted sunflowers for over 25 years; includes photo props (tractors, piano), food trucks on weekends, playground, and petting farm .
Admission: Typically around $6–$7 per person; kids under 5 free; donation boxes available; season passes offered .
Season: Late July through August into early September .
Ideal For: Those seeking a festive asparagus—photo-friendly, amenities, and weekend entertainment.

5. Fresh Acres Farm & Corn Maze (Monticello)

Location: Monticello, west of Minneapolis.
Experience: Five-acre sunflower field plus fall activities: corn maze, inflatables, food, petting zoo; perfect for mid‑August or early fall visits .
Admission: Around $8 per person; cut-your-own stem ~ $2; purchase online advised .
Season: Late August through early September .
Ideal For: Families looking for a lively experience beyond just flowers.

6. Afton‑Apple Orchard & Flower Festival (Hastings)

Location: Hastings, in the St. Croix Valley.
Offerings: Seasonal flower festival includes acres of sunflowers and zinnias; pick-your-own for $3–$5 per bloom; orchard entry required ($5–$7) .
Season: Festival weekends in mid‑late August .
Ideal For: Combining sunflower viewing with orchard activities.

7. Brand Farms (Farmington)

Location: Farmington, south metro.
Overview: Smaller family farm with sunflower field, local produce, pumpkins; casual “cut-your-own” experience exists .
Cost: Around $10 per car; includes access and some “jump pad” activity; timing varies .
Season: Open in September, flexible blooming window .
Ideal For: A quick stop or combining with apple‑pumpkin picking in fall.

🌞 When & How to Plan Your Visit

Best Viewing Period: Mid‑August to early September is peak, with some fields blooming as early as late July and extending into mid‑Sep thanks to staggered planting .
Bloom Duration: Individual sunflower plantings are only at peak for about 10 days—check each farm’s Facebook or website before heading out .
Amenities: Some farms are rustic (Fish Sunflowers free fields have none); others like Waldoch, Green Barn, and Fresh Acres offer food, restrooms, and event programming.
Photography Tips: Visit early morning or late afternoon for golden light. Use designated paths and props to preserve blooms.
Packing Suggestions:
- Camera or phone for photos
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Closed-toe shoes (especially at muddy fields)
- Clippers if you plan to cut sunflowers
- Snacks/drink
- Insect Repellent (don’t forget)

🗺 Suggested Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Twin Cities suburbs:

Morning: Free wandering at Fish Sunflowers if active fields exist.
Midday: Explore Green Barn Garden Center – pick-your-photo props + grab lunch or visit food trucks.
Afternoon: Joyer Adventure Farm at Waldoch for rides, play areas, and a sunflower festival feel.

Day 2 – Escape North:

Early: Head to Treasured Haven Farm for serene nature trails and sweeping sunflower fields.
Afternoon: Detour to Fresh Acres Farm for late bloom sunflower photos + corn maze.

Optional Add-ons:

✔️ Final Tips

Always confirm open fields and bloom status on official websites or Facebook pages.
Respect farm guidelines: stay on paths, no climbing on equipment, don’t trample plants, and leave no trace.
Consider parking passes or membership passes if you plan multiple visits.
Bring cash where required (many farms prefer or only accept it, e.g. Treasured Haven).

Minnesota’s sunflower season is a fleeting but magical display—planning ahead will help you catch the bloom when it’s at its brightest.