A few weeks ago, I had wanted to go to a Sunflower field, but was disappointed to see that none of the sunflowers were still yellow by the time I had gone.
Thankfully, Butler’s Orchard came to the rescue! It was recently the Orchard’s 75th Anniversary if you didn’t know. They had a huge event but unfortunately it rained and I didn’t end up going. Butler’s Orchard is a family-friendly farm located in Germantown. It is available for hosting parties and events at request and has multiple pick-your-own options as well, including the following, depending on the season: asparagus, peonies, strawberries, peas, blueberries, tart cherries, black raspberries, flower garden, tomatoes, herbs, peppers, blackberries, potatoes, red raspberries, apples, pumpkins, sunflowers and Christmas trees. WOW! That’s a lot. They do have a cafe on site, more than ample parking, fields to play, have picnics in etc. and of course the animals which we’ll cover later!
The cost of pick-your-owns are only $5 and those under $2 are free. The containers are a separate cost; the $5 is for admission.
But we’re not here to talk about fruits and veggies. We’re here to talk about sunflowers!
I had found the Sunflower Spectacular on Facebook… you know how your phone eavesdrops and stalks you?
I’m sure it knew that I wanted to see Sunflowers, and BAM! This… was actually appreciated. What is not appreciated is when I’m searching for something medically concerning or something or want to know the definition of something disturbing and BAM- my entire feed is about “signs of brain tumors” after googling a tension headache, or “what is a bunion.” *sigh*
Anyways….
It’s pretty straight forwards and there were signs everywhere. The ticket for this was $13 and $9 on weekdays. After I parked, I had crossed the gravel paveway and there was a tractor waiting for me. (Actually it wasn’t waiting for me, it was just parked and I got on LOL)
You got on the tractor, which was quite bumpy to be honest and the roads it traveled on were dusty so while the aesthetic was there, I did have to turn my head to not get dust in my face. The man driving the tractor was nice, but it was clear he was bored out of his mind, and I would imagine driving about 0.5 mi or less back and forth for hours is… boring. I suppose the good thing is this festival only lasts 2 weeks… eek. Hopefully he has a more fulfilling job after it ends!
Once we got the fields, a younger man came on and explained to us the cost of picking sunflowers. Which I believe was $12/6 and $18/12. I may be off on that number, so please don’t quote me! We then would get off and explore the fields. There were also a lot of decorations within the fields, which I thought was a nice touch!
You were able to return back to the main farm whenever you wanted. Another tractor came every 4 minutes or so.
Once I got back, I enjoyed a Creamsicle-Strawberry Slush. It was so yummy, but very cold. (Which is probably to be expected for a slushie!) It came out fairly quickly and the large size was only $5.75.
After this refreshing drink? Food? Dessert? Slushie… I couldn’t just leave and so I explored the animals. The animals were in their respective enclosure, in a sort of L-shape. Before that, was the kids jungle gym (which I did not go on LOL). They all had adequate shelter for shade and most of them were out- but the pig was basking inside their shelter… too hot I suppose, and ya know- I can’t really object. It was hot and how many times have I preferred to veg inside as opposed to greet strangers outside? A lot…
The donkeys were mother and son, which I thought were the cutest and goats had petting holes..I’m sure there’s a better term for that- but I personally do not know what that is LOL.
Some guests had food to feed the animals (like specialized animal food bought from Butler’s) but were strictly encouraged to avoid feeding the donkeys as they’re on a diet!!
Do I recommend Butler’s Farm for the Sunflower Spectacular?
I absolutely do! I thought it was a beautiful and relatively inexpensive attraction for the whole family. The farm itself was lovely and the market/cafe was a great additive. I wish there were cows and/or more farm animals, but Butler’s seems to prioritize the produce over animals, which is totally fine. There are many, many fields, obviously, as you may have guessed with the numerous pick-your-own fruits/veggies. Overall a good experience- and huge plus if you’re looking for a family-friendly place to visit!
NOTE: Service animals are allowed, but emotional support animals or any non-service animals are not permitted.
Website: https://www.butlersorchard.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/butlersorchard/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ButlersOrchard1
Address: 22222 Davis Mill Road
Germantown, MD 20876
Cheers friends and travelers!
~Backroad Butterflies ~
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