If you're road-tripping through Kansas in the summer, you'll probably spot wild sunflowers waving from the roadside. They're beautiful, sure, but the real showstoppers are the cultivated sunflower fields that burst into bloom across the Sunflower State.
These larger-than-life fields are planted specifically for visitors, creating rows upon rows of golden blooms perfect for wandering, snapping photos and soaking up one of Kansas' most iconic sights. Trust us: the wildflowers along the highway are just the opening act.
Kansas and sunflowers go way back. Long before Kansas became a state in 1861, travelers on the Santa Fe Trail documented the bright yellow blooms stretching across the prairie. In 1903, the wild native sunflower was officially named the state flower, cementing its place as a symbol of Kansas.
Ready to see them for yourself? Timing is everything. Cultivated sunflower fields typically bloom for only a week or two, with peak season falling between June and September. Keep reading to discover the sunflower fields closest to Wichita where you can stroll among the blooms and capture your own golden-hour moment.
Sunflower Festival at Gaeddert Farms, 13209 E. 82nd Ave., Buhler, KS, 67522
With more than 20 acres of sunflowers and 600,000 blooms, Gaeddert Farms is the kind of place that makes you stop every few feet for "just one more photo." They celebrate the state's flower each year with the Sunflower Festival. Typically, the season is estimated to begin in mid-August, and this year the anticipated opening date is Aug. 25.
In addition to being able to walk through the sunflower fields and take photos at various props provided, visitors can also enjoy a playground with a sand volleyball pit, giant lawn games, a jumping pillow and other fun attractions. Special events include the 6th annual Sunflower Trail Run 5K & 1 Mile on Aug. 29, the 7th annual Sunflower Market featuring 100+ vendors on Sept. 5 and Art in the Sunflowers painting classes offered at various times.
Diana Burress/ B. Realty’s Sunflower Field, 9251 SW 115th St., Augusta, KS, 67010
Travel about 20 miles east of downtown Wichita for this sunflower field planted by realtor Diana Burress and her family. There is no fee to walk through the flowers and take photos. Bonus: There's also a sunflower mural painted on a silo, giving visitors two Kansas photo ops in one stop.
Blooms are expected in late August; watch her Facebook page for updates. There is a designated parking area and visitors should not park along the road.
Peterson Farm Brothers’ Sunflower Trails, ½ mile south of 2951 13th Ave., Lindsborg, KS, 67456
The Peterson Brothers have built a following by making agriculture fun and approachable online, and their sunflower trails bring that same energy to the fifth-generation family farm located about 75 miles north of downtown Wichita. Their double crop of sunflowers are expected to bloom in late August and into early September. Stay updated on the field’s progress via their Facebook page.
Photo provided by Pam Rogers
PBR Family Farm, 15199-14701 W 23rd St S., Wichita, KS, 67227
PBR Family Farm's sunflower field has become a local summer tradition, drawing visitors who want to stroll through thousands of bright yellow blooms and capture that perfect Kansas summer photo. The family farm opens its field to the public each July during peak bloom season.
Visitors are welcome to explore the field free of charge from 6 to 9 p.m. each evening while the flowers are in bloom. While admission is free, donations are appreciated to help cover the costs of seeds, planting and maintenance. Photographers are also welcome to book sessions in the field, making it a popular spot for family photos, senior portraits and golden-hour shoots. Follow them on Facebook for more information.
Klausmeyer Dairy Farm and Pumpkin Patch, 8135 S. 119th St. W., Clearwater, KS, 67026
For another sunflower-filled farm experience near Wichita, make your way to Klausmeyer Farm. Located just 13 miles south of Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, this family-friendly farm hopes to have sunflower blooms available to enjoy during its well-loved pumpkin patch season. Before you go, check Klausmeyer Farm’s Facebook page for the latest bloom updates, pumpkin patch details and seasonal hours.
Want to turn your sunflower stop into a farm-stay getaway? Klausmeyer Farm also offers an Airbnb on the property, where guests can feed Highland cows, wander past peacocks and alpacas and wake up to a different side of Kansas.
Sunflower season doesn't last long, which makes catching peak bloom feel a little like striking gold. Before you visit, check each farm's social media pages for bloom updates, hours and weather-related changes. And as always, respect private property and follow each farm's guidance for parking and visiting. Check out our Official Visitor Guide if you’re looking for more outdoor adventures and things to do in the Wichita area.
