Richardson Farm is one of my favorite spots in McHenry County. From tulips to sunflowers and one of the best fall festivals around, Richardson Farm offers so much fun for families. On our latest trip, we visited as the sun was going down. Wow! It painted the farm in a whole new (and fun!) light.
Disclosure: A big thanks to Richardson Adventure Farm for hosting our family. As always all opinions are my own. Some links may be affiliate links.
HIGHLIGHTS of Richardson Farm at Night:
Climb Up the Observation Tower
One of the first things we do when we visit the farm is head up to the observation tower. The views here are amazing especially with the sun getting ready to set. If you want to go ziplining, this is where it starts off!
Get lost in the world’s largest maze
We had an a-maze-ing time going through the “World’s Largest Corn Maze.” Every year, they have a different theme. This year it’s James Bond to commemorate the 60th anniversary of James Bond. There are different options and levels of difficulty to choose from. We definitely didn’t want to get lost, so we chose the easiest game “Farm Tracks” and finished in less than ten minutes. The kids were so excited looking for these stops where they could find different animal tracks. Once they found them, they did a rubbing to capture their findings.
Peep the pretty sunflowers
You all know I absolutely LOVE sunflowers and they have a 13-acre sunflower field included with admission. Yes, INCLUDED! It’s seriously so beautiful out there. If you’re looking for photo props, they have those too. I believe the best time to view these pretties is during the golden hour. Absolutely gorgeous!
Tip: Make sure to view the sunflowers before the fields close at dusk.
Chug around
Train lovers will LOVE the train on tracks! The best part is the whole family can ride on it. Going through the tunnel is a highlight but let me warn you it can get loud in there!
Spin round and round
Carousels are always a hit with my youngest. This one was the perfect speed – not too fast.
Indulge in the treats
Okay, definitely this momma’s favorite part of any of our adventures is the food. And Richardson Adventure Farm does NOT disappoint. Whenever we visit, we always get apple cider, apple cider donuts, and popcorn. This year, we changed it up and added some mommy and daddy drinks as well as oatmeal cookies. Everything was fabulous! On select days, they even have food trucks.
Tip: If you want piping hot, fresh out of the oven apple cider donuts get them at the Donut Silo.
Other Fun Things to Do
When the sun goes down, Richardson Farm twinkles at night (literally) with string lights guiding you. It’s also the best time to enjoy the fun activities. Some other must dos at the farm: jump on the multiple jumping pillows, zip down the extra long slides, get your fill of corn in the corn pit. If you have little one they have an area dedicated to kids 48″ and younger. They had younger versions of the kids favorite activities like the jumping pillow. corn silo, and a little mini-slide.
Tips to Enjoy Richardson Farm
- If you’re visiting at night, bring glow sticks! It’s make it that much more fun!
- At the sunflower maze, you may notice lots of bees. Don’t bother them and they won’t bother you.
- Make sure to stop by their gift shop for more goodies like handmade chocolates, popcorn and even wine tasting!
- Indoor restrooms are found in the gift shop and by the Donut Silo.
- Dogs are welcome if it is on a leash and plays well with others.
Final Thoughts of Richardson Farm
What a wonderful fall evening spent! I highly recommend visiting Richardson Farm especially at the sun goes down!
Nitty Gritty:
Website: https://richardsonadventurefarm.com/
Address: 909 English Prairie Rd, Spring Grove, IL
Hours: Thursday to Sunday; check website for hours
Admission: $24 per person ages 13 and up; $20 per kid ages 3-12; 2 and under are free! Higher price for weekends in October. Credit cards accepted.
Parking: Free with parking on grass
