Urbana’s Unexpected, Glorious Sunflower Fields are Soothing to Our Souls — and Will Definitely Lift Your Spirits
You may have seen your friends on Instagram or other social media posting photos from a beautiful sunflower field – and this time, it’s right in our backyard.
This beautiful addition to our prairie landscape can be found in southeast Urbana, in the Stone Creek neighborhood (we’ve put together very specific directions below the photos.)
If you go, you’ll find the sunflowers easily accessible from the road; they line both sides of the street, although all of them are facing east.
If you drive, there’s a few driveway “stubs” where you can park and get a quick closeup. Another idea for a longer visit: make this a stop for your next family walk. The sunflowers provide quite a view; even though there are no sidewalks in that area of the neighborhood, the street is lightly trafficked. (Or at least it was before the sunflower fields bloomed).
It’s unknown how long the flowers will remain in bloom, but they are certainly in their prime right now. It’s also unknown if or when they will be harvested, according to a report in The News-Gazette.
The property is owned by the Atkins Group, and according to Mayor Diane Marlin, encompasses 42 acres.
DIRECTIONS TO THE STONE CREEK SUNFLOWER FIELDS IN URBANA
To get there: Take Philo Road to Amber Lane (located just north of the Urbana Meijer). Go east on Amber Lane toward Stone Creek. Turn left on Stone Creek Boulevard – you can’t miss the sunflowers, which will surround you on your right and lefthand side.
A few tips:
- Be aware that sunflowers attract bees. There are PLENTY OF BEES in these fields.
- Remember that this is private property; although its owners want visitors to enjoy the fields, be respectful. Don’t take any sunflowers home, please.
- Note that there is no specific public access or timing, and it’s completely free to visit. It’s just a few fields.
- There’s plenty of room for everyone, as 42 acres is a large area; social distancing isn’t a problem.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera.
After you’ve visited the sunflowers, head to nearby Lohmann Park and play some disc golf at its 9-hole course.
Did you know there’s a sunflower maze in Central Illinois? The L&A Sunflower Maze just outside of Paris is closed for the season, but learn more about it here – and file away a trip for next year.
Want to see more flowers in the Champaign-Urbana area? We have suggestions for where to see beautiful flowers and gardens.
