As the sun set, I pulled my car off to the side of the road. The view in front of me was breathtaking; sunflower fields in Texas stretched as far as the eye could see. I got out of my car and took it all in. The flowers were so big and bright that they almost seemed unreal.
I lay in the middle of one field and stared at the sky. The stars were shining brightly, and it was so peaceful there. I could have stayed there forever. As I got up to leave, I noticed something strange: There was a path leading through the fields, as if someone had been there before me.
I followed the path for a while until it led me to a small hill in the center of the fields. At the top of the hill sat a wooden bench overlooking all the sunflower fields in Texas. It was like someone had built it just for me. Before heading home, I sat on the bench and took in the view one last time.
What are sunflower fields in Texas?
Sunflower fields are a common sight in Texas during the summer months. The hot, humid climate is ideal for growing sunflowers, and the state produces more than half of the nation’s supply.
Why are sunflower fields in Texas special?
Sunflowers are annual, meaning they only live for one growing season. At the end of the season, the plants die and leave behind a large amount of biomass. This biomass can be used as a natural fertilizer, adding vital nutrients to the soil.
In addition, sunflowers attract various pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and birds. These pollinators help ensure that local plants have adequate Pollination rates, which are critical for plant reproduction.
By attracting pollinators, sunflower fields play an important role in maintaining the local ecosystem’s health. For these reasons, sunflower fields are a cherished part of the Texas landscape.
A map of Texas with sunflower fields highlighted
Have you ever seen a field of sunflowers? It’s an amazing sight. I recently drove through the sunflower fields in Lubbock, Texas, which was breathtaking. If you’re ever in the area, make sure to stop by and take a look. The rows of bright yellow flowers are sure to take your breath away.
Bluebonnet Trail
The Bluebonnet Trail is a must-see for any visitor to Texas. Spanning over 100 miles, the trail takes in some of the most beautiful scenery in the state.
Location
The trail is approximately 100 miles long and runs from Brenham to San Antonio. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of rolling hills blanketed in blue wildflowers.
Best time to visit
The best time to see the bluebonnets is typically from mid-March to mid-April, although the exact timing varies depending on the weather. For those wanting to experience the beauty of the Texas Hill Country, a drive along the Bluebonnet Trail is a must.
Other attractions nearby
The area also has several excellent hiking trails, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. And for those who prefer to stay on solid ground, there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, including deer, armadillos, and rattlesnakes.
With so much to see and do, the Bluebonnet Trail is a great place to spend a day or two exploring all that Central Texas has to offer.
Burnett Reservoir Park
The Burnett Reservoir Park is great for spending a day with family and friends. There is something for everyone at the park. The scenic views of the river are breathtaking, and the amenities offer something for everyone in the group.
Location
The Burnett Reservoir Park is located in the town of Arlington, Virginia. The park is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Potomac River.
Size
Burnett Reservoir Park, located in Arapahoe County, Colorado, is popular for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The reservoir covers an impressive 1,500 acres and is the park’s centerpiece.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Burnett Reservoir Park is spring or autumn. The park is located in a rural area, and the weather is often unpredictable. However, the spring and autumn months tend to be the most stable. The park is also less crowded during these times of the year.
Other attractions nearby
There are plenty of options for both adults and children. For the adults, there is golfing, hiking, and fishing. For the kids, there is a playground, a splash pad, and a basketball court. No matter your interests, you’re sure to find something to do near Burnett Reservoir Park.
Cedar Hill State Park
Cedar Hill State Park is a beautiful place to enjoy nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is open year-round, and plenty of events and activities keep visitors busy.
Location
Cedar Hill State Park is located in Cedar Hill, Texas. The park is situated on 1,826 acres of land and is home to a variety of plant and animal species.
Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, picnicking, and camping. The park also has a playground, pavilion, and swimming pool for visitors.
Size
Cedar Hill State Park is a 1,826-acre state park located in Dallas County, Texas.
The size of Cedar Hill State Park makes it an excellent place for a day trip or weekend getaway. There is plenty of space to explore, and the variety of activities means there is something for everyone.
Best time to visit
Spring and fall offer the mildest temperatures, making them ideal for camping, hiking, and picnicking. Summertime brings warmer weather, perfect for swimming, fishing, and paddling.
However, you’ll want to avoid visiting during the hottest months. Winter can be a great time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife at Cedar Hill State Park. Just be sure to dress warmly!
Other attractions nearby
In addition to the diverse wildlife and the opportunity to hike, bike, and camp at Cedar Hill State Park, there are several other attractions nearby that make it worth a visit. For history buffs, the President George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is only a short drive away in Dallas.
If you’re looking for more outdoor activities, Dinosaur Valley State Park is less than an hour away and offers the chance to see fossilized tracks from dinosaurs that once roamed the area. Or take a drive out to Lake Worth for swimming, fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Chappell Hill Lavender & Sunflower Farm
Chappell Hill Lavender & Sunflower Farm is a must-visit for any nature lover. Visitors can stroll through the fields, take a wagon ride, or even pick their bouquets.
In addition to being a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, the farm also offers a variety of products made from lavender and sunflowers. These include soaps, lotions, oils, and even baked goods. There’s something for everyone at Chappell Hill Lavender & Sunflower Farm!
Location
Chappell Hill Lavender & Sunflower Farm is located in the historic town of Chappell Hill, Texas. The farm is situated on 10 acres of land and features a variety of lavender and sunflower fields.
Visitors can stroll through the fragrant lavender fields, pick fresh sunflowers, and purchase various lavender-infused products. The farm also offers a beautiful setting for weddings and other special events.
Size
Chappell Hill Lavender & Sunflower spans over 150 acres and features over 60 varieties of lavender and sunflowers. Visitors can stroll through the fields, pick flowers, and purchase lavender-infused products from the on-site farm store.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit is during the peak season of June and July when the lavender and sunflowers bloom. During this time, the fields are open for picking, and visitors can purchase fresh bouquets.
Other attractions nearby
The Brenham Heritage Museum is a must-see for history buffs, and the Blue Bell Creameries offer tours of their facilities. For those looking for a more active adventure, canoeing and kayaking are available on the nearby Brazos River.
Denton Country Preserve
The Denton Country Preserve was established in 1975 and is managed by the Denton Parks and Recreation Department. The preserve is open to the public from sunrise to sunset.
Location
Denton Country Preserve is located in Denton, Texas. The preserve is home to various plant and animal life, including several endangered species. The preserve is open to the public for hiking, picnicking, and bird watching.
Size
Denton Country Preserve was established in 1989 and covered an area of 1,500 acres. The preserve is located just outside Denton, Texas, and is home to various plant and animal life.
Among the wildlife found in the preserve are several endangered species. The preserve is open to the public for hiking, picnicking, and bird watching.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the preserve is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the vegetation is in bloom. During these months, visitors can expect to see various wildlife, including deer, snakes, lizards, and birds.
Other attractions nearby
Outside Denton, Country Preserve is a small town full of charm and character. Visitors can explore the shops and restaurants or take a scenic stroll down Main Street. There are also several parks and recreational areas nearby for visitors to enjoy.
Dewberry Farm
Dewberry Farm is a family-owned and operated farm in southern Maryland. We grow and sell fruits, vegetables, and flowers. It offers pick-your-own strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Our farm market is open from late April through October 31st.
Location
Dewberry Farm is located in the heart of Central Texas. The farm is situated on over two hundred acres of beautiful land. The land is lush and green, with plenty of room for the animals to roam freely.
Size
Dewberry Farm, located in east Texas, is one of the largest strawberry farms in the United States. The farm covers an area of 200 hectares and produces about 10 million strawberries annually.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Dewberry Farm is in September and October. During these months, the farm is open for tours, hayrides, and pick-your-own activities. The weather is usually mild, making it a perfect time to enjoy all the farm offers.
Other attractions nearby
Dewberry Farm is one of many attractions in the area. There are plenty of other places to go and things to see. For example, just a short drive away is the George Ranch Historical Park.
This park offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of Texas through tours, demonstrations, and hands-on activities.
Another nearby option is the Rosenberg Railroad Museum. This museum features exhibits on the history of railroads in Texas and various interactive displays. Visitors can also take a ride on a real train!
Finally, a trip to the area would only be complete with a visit to Space Center Houston. This unique attraction lets visitors experience what it’s like to be an astronaut, tour NASA’s facilities, and learn about space exploration.
Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area
LLELA was created in 1974 when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Elm Fork Trinity River to create Lewisville Lake. The environmental learning area was established in partnership with the Corps of Engineers and the City of Lewisville to provide citizens with educational opportunities and recreational space.
Location
The Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area (LLELA) is a nature preserve located on the shores of Lewisville Lake in Denton County, Texas. The preserve is operated by the City of Lewisville and is open to the public for hiking, fishing, camping, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.
Size
Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area (LLELA) is a 2,118-acre nature preserve located on the shores of Lewisville Lake in Denton County, Texas.
The preserve is operated by the City of Lewisville and is open to the public for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, and picnicking. The preserve is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including several endangered and threatened species.
Best time to visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area (E.L.A.). The weather is mild, and the flowers bloom in the spring, while the leaves change colors in the fall.
E.L.A. offers a variety of programs and activities for visitors of all ages, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Other attractions nearby
This hidden gem is perfect for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy nature. Visitors can hike, bike, camp, fish, and more at this 2,000-acre nature preserve.
LLELA is also home to many different species of plants and animals. Visitors can see everything from alligators to bald eagles while enjoying the great outdoors.
With so much to do, LLELA is the perfect place to spend a day or even a weekend. So pack your bags and head to Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area for an experience you won’t forget.
McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls State Park is one of Texas’s most popular state parks. The falls are the park’s highlight and are worth the short hike to see them. The park also has a great swimming hole for those hot summer days.
Location
McKinney Falls State Park is located just outside of Austin, Texas. The park is situated on Onion Creek and features a variety of hiking trails, swimming holes, and camping sites.
Size
At nearly 800 acres, McKinney Falls State Park is one of the larger state parks in Texas. The park is south of Austin and features two waterfalls, hiking trails, a campground, and a swimming hole.
Best time to visit
The answer depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to avoid crowds, the best time to visit is during the week. However, if you’re looking for a more festive atmosphere, weekends are usually when the park is most lively.
Other attractions nearby
McKinney Falls State Park is just south of Austin, a beautiful spot to spend a day hiking, swimming, and picnicking. But there’s more to do in the area than just visiting the park! Here are some other attractions to check out nearby.
For history buffs, the Confederate Reunion Grounds State Historic Site is a must-see. The site was a gathering place for Confederate veterans and their families after the Civil War. Today, it’s a popular spot for picnics and events.
Just down the road from McKinney Falls State Park is Onion Creek Metropolitan Park. This park is perfect for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors without hiking for miles. Visitors can go fishing, birdwatching, or relax in the shade of the trees.
Williamson County Sunflower Festival
The Williamson County Sunflower Festival is an annual event that celebrates the area’s vibrant sunflower crop. The festival features a variety of sunflower-themed events, including a sunflower-themed parade, a sunflower-themed 5K race, and a sunflower-themed art show.
The festival is a great way to celebrate the area’s agricultural heritage and enjoy the beauty of the sunflowers.
Location
The Williamson County Sunflower Festival is an annual event in Franklin, Tennessee. The festival is usually held in September and features a variety of activities for attendees to enjoy.
Size
The Williamson County Sunflower Festival is one of the largest festivals in the area. The festival spans two weekends and features over 200 vendors. The event includes live music, food trucks, and a sunflower maze.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Williamson County Sunflower Festival is in mid-July. The festival takes place over two weekends, and visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, and other activities.
Mid-July is the peak of sunflower season in Central Texas, so that visitors can see the beautiful flowers in full bloom.
Other attractions nearby
The Williamson County Sunflower Festival is one of many attractions in the area. There are plenty of other things to do nearby.
For those looking for a little more excitement, there is always Nashville. Just a short drive from the festival, Nashville offers a variety of attractions, including live music, delicious food, and interesting shops. The city is also home to the famous Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium.
Zilker Botanical Garden
Zilker Botanical Garden, known for its serene beauty and lush vegetation, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Austin, Texas.
Location
The garden is located in Zilker Park, also home to the Zilker Hillside Theater and the Zilker Nature Preserve. The garden has more than 30 acres of land and includes several different gardens, such as the Hartman Prehistoric Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Japanese Garden.
Size
The garden, which covers 30 acres, is home to more than 20 different gardens, including the Japanese Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Herb Garden. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the gardens or participate in one of the many educational programs offered by the garden staff.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Zilker Botanical Garden is spring or fall. The weather is pleasant, and the flowers are in bloom. The garden is open year-round, but the hours vary seasonally. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
Other attractions nearby
If you’re looking for more things to do after visiting the Zilker Botanical Garden, there are plenty of options nearby. The Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum is just a short walk away, which features a collection of outdoor sculptures and rotating exhibitions.
For something unique, check out the Austin Nature & Science Center, where you can see live animals, fossils, and hands-on exhibits.
And no trip to Austin would be complete without visiting the iconic Congress Avenue Bats – you can view them from the bridge or one of the many bat houses along Lady Bird Lake.
