From tulips to sunflowers, poppies and lavender, flowers fields are in bloom from spring to fall throughout Michigan. Whether you’re looking to capture the perfect photo, or want to pick your own bouquet to brighten up your home, I’m here to help you find the best blooms throughout the Mitten State. Keep in mind, when you’re visiting any field it’s important to respect nature and follow the rules of each business in regards to picking flowers, walking through the fields, making appointments for professional photos, etc.
Veldheer Tulip Garden
Tulip Time in Holland is a multi-week celebration of Dutch heritage and culture. The festival was cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19 but that didn’t stop the tulips from blooming. Veldheer Tulip Garden features five & a half-million tulips in bloom during the last week in April until the middle of May. You’ll also find hundreds of other tulips throughout the town or at Windmill Island Gardens.
On the bucket list: Cherry blossoms in Traverse City
Before the sweet and tart cherries which Traverse City is famous for are in season, there must first be cherry blossoms on the trees. The beautiful white blossoms begin to arrive in mid-May. They only last four to five days on the trees, but different parts of the region bloom at different times, so the full season can last up to two weeks. Click here to learn more.
Poppy Field at Pleasant Hill Farm
The poppy field in Fennville was planted by Joan Donaldson and John Van Voorhees who own and operate Pleasant Hill Blueberry Farm. The couple originally planted the field two years ago in memory of their son. The flowers also attract bees and butterflies which help pollinate the farm’s blueberry crop. The poppy field typically starts to bloom in early June and will be done blooming by the 4th of July.
Note: According to the farm’s Facebook page, they did not plant any poppies this fall and plan to take a year or two off. But they will have a different floral surprise planned that will bloom during u-pick blueberry season.
On the bucket list: The Peony Garden in Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum Peony Garden features a stunning spring display with 350 varieties and up to 800 peonies when in full bloom. Peak bloom typically runs from late May to mid-June and varies based on the weather. Many of the flowers’ colors wash out in harsh sunlight so it’s best to visit in early morning or evening for the best light. Only online visits were available in 2020 so be sure to check here for the latest information.
Lavender Hill Farm in Boyne City
In mid-July you can find these gorgeous fields of purple throughout the state. Lavender Hill Farm in Boyne City is one of the most well known fields and for good reason. The farm is home to 25 different varieties of lavender, with u-pick options and an adorable gift shop. Be sure to try the lavender fizz lemonade and visit the drying barn for the best smells of your life.
On the bucket list: Frederick Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids
Frederick Meijer is a garden lovers dream. I’ve visited before in the winter but always wanted to make it back in the spring to wander the pathways of the English Perennial Garden and watch annuals and perennials blossom. The gardens are also home to a tropical conservatory with a 3,500 piece orchid collection. The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden also comes alive in the spring with flowering Japanese cherry trees.
Sunflower field in Traverse City
August in Michigan means sunflower season! This is one of my favorite fields to visit in Traverse City and I stumbled upon it on a whim while driving. It’s located just off the side of the road at Leabo Farm 9224 E. Duck Lake Road in Sutton’s Bay and makes for a quick photo op. Maple Bay Natural Area is another great sunflower field in the area.
Secret Garden on Mackinac Island
The gardens on Mackinac Island are all spectacular but this hidden gem on the grounds of the Grand Hotel takes the grand prize. The garden is a little tricky to find but head toward the pool house and follow the garden paths to find the opening. The grounds staff replants the garden a few times throughout the spring and summer so you’ll find different varieties of flowers depending on when you visit.
Zinnia field at Dinges Harvest in Three Oaks
Fall isn’t all about apples and pumpkins – you’ll also find fields of zinnias in full bloom in September and early October. This colorful photo op at Dinges Fall Harvest is free to visit. While you’re there be sure to also spend time picking pumpkins, wandering the corn maze, and enjoying donuts and cider.
About the Author
This guest post was written by our Guide Architect of the Month, Jessica Springer. She is the voice behind Well Planned Adventures. Check out her blog for even more travel tips and tricks!
