Kuipers Tulip Fest in Maple Park, IL: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Spring in Illinois brings a burst of color, and there’s no better place to tiptoe through the tulips than at Kuipers Tulip Fest in Maple Park, IL! 🌷 With thousands of vibrant blooms stretching as far as the eye can see, this annual festival is a must-visit for flower lovers, photographers, and families looking for the perfect spring outing.

Whether you’re searching for stunning photo ops, fun activities, or simply a peaceful stroll among the petals, this guide will ensure you know everything before you go. Keep reading to discover the best time to visit, ticket details, and insider tips for making the most of your tulip-filled adventure

Where is Kuipers Tulip Fest?

230-acre Kuipers Family Farm is located about 1.5 hours west of Chicago at 1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park, IL. 60151.

You will enter at the FunFarm ticket booths and follow the signs back through the tulip fields.

When to visit Kuipers Tulip Fest

Spring– April and May. You can visit their website for the Tulip Bloom-o-Meter to find out the perfect time to visit when the tulips are in full bloom.

There is a possibility of opening weekend being April 19-20, 2025 and closing weekend being as late as May 17-18, 2025, but check the bloom-o-meter and their website to double check before you go. Midwest Tulip Fest dates are dependent on the weather and condition of the flowers. 

Timing also depends on the experience you want.

• If you want the best possible photos and to see the best in bloom tulips, then I suggest you go when the Bloom-o-Meter says the tulips are in full bloom. Try to go on a “perfect” weather day too so you won’t be cold, but be prepared for crowds.

It will be less crowded during the week, but if work or other obligations prevent you from visiting then, there are some other times you can visit when the crowds may be less.

• Consider going a week before or after full bloom. You’ll still see a lot of tulips and get beautiful pictures but the crowds may be a little less daunting.

• Also, if you don’t mind some less-than-ideal weather, consider going when it’s overcast or cooler temps. Make sure to check the website because sometimes they close the fields due to extreme weather conditions.

Hours and Admission at Kuipers Tulip Fest

2 and under- free admission

Where to Park at Kuipers Tulip Fest

Parking is FREE.

The main parking lot is located on the west side of Watson Road closest to the Midwest Tulip Fest and FunFarm activity area.

What to See at Kuipers Tulip Fest

The tulips! Duh. This is the main reason for visiting, right?! The tulips were so beautiful when we went. They were in almost full bloom. We went the weekend before they were projected to be in full bloom and they did not disappoint.

There were rows and rows of them in multiple colors and varieties. Their website says, “8 acres of tulip fields with nearly 650,000 tulips and over 30 tulip varieties.” The tulips go on and on forever.

Photo Ops at Kuipers Tulip Fest

The Kuipers Tulip Fest is ‘tulip’-notch for stunning spring photos! Snap away till your heart’s content and make all your Instagram dreams come true. Or just take some really beautiful photos for yourself or share with family. You can get some wonderful photos to frame.

Some of the best places to take photos Kuipers Tulip Fest:

• Among the tulips. You can get some wonderful shots walking through the tulips and crouched down among the tulips.
• On a bicycle in front of the windmill.
• On the extra large chair in the tulip fields.
• Inside the large frame.

Live Entertainment (weekends only)

After tiptoeing through the tulips, you can take a break and listen to some live entertainment. Grab a drink and enjoy some music among the tulips.

Food

You can get some yummy treats at the Farmhouse Kitchen. Enjoy farm fresh bakery items or concession foods at the farm. There are food trucks available on the weekends too. We had some delicious gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches from Hippie Gourmet Grilled Cheese Co. food truck and ate at one of the picnic tables that are available.

The Treetop Bar has alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Grab a drink and listen to some live entertainment on the weekend.

Other Things to Do (with families)

There’s a lot of other fun attractions to see and do with children. We didn’t do any of these activities since it was just Dominic and me, but the kids that we saw were having a great time. Some attractions are included in the entrance fee like seeing the farm animals and climbing the tire tractor mountain and many others too. Some attractions are extra like the jumping pillow and apple blasters. Check out the website for more specifics.

This kids area is far enough away from the tulip fields as not to be a distraction to anyone that’s not interested in that area, but close enough that you can easily get there with the little ones.

What to Wear

It can get windy in the “middle of nowhere” out in the fields so dress appropriately. The weather can change quickly in the midwest in the springtime. The temperature can drop if the clouds come out and the wind can pick up quickly. The opposite is also true. It can get warm if the sun comes out and the wind dies down.

Dress in layers.

Definitely wear comfortable shoes. Make sure you don’t mind if they get dirty. Remember- you are walking through fields of dirt and grass/tulip beds. If it rained prior to your visit, consider wearing rain boots.

Alternatively, I’ve seen people who dress up because they are taking special photos. Maybe bring a change of shoes so you can walk to your photo op spot comfortably without getting your nice shoes dirty.

FAQ’S

Can I bring my pet?

• Only if it is a service animal.

Is outside food allowed?

• No. However, you may bring snacks for children and water bottles. You can eat and tailgate in the parking lot.

Are professional photo shoots allowed?

• Yes. The professional photographer must purchase a ticket for themselves and their clients. No large props allowed. You may not be in any one spot for more than 5 minutes. You will share the fields with other paying guests.

Are drones allowed?

• Drones are not allowed during regular business hours. There are circumstances that you may have permission to fly your drone. You will need to contact the farm at [email protected].

Again, check the website for more detailed info.

Roadtrip Add-Ons in or near Maple Park

Aquaviva Winery– take a tour of the vineyard or eat at their Italian restaurant.

Lodi Tap House– Chicago’s best burgers 2018, famous cheese curds, and the Illinois Only Craft Beer Board

Paisano’s Pizza and Grill in nearby Elburn- check out their weekday daily specials or grab a delicious pizza any day of the week.

Tulip Wrap-Up

If you’re looking for the perfect way to celebrate spring, Kuipers Tulip Fest in Maple Park, IL is a must-visit! With thousands of vibrant tulips, scenic photo ops, and fun activities for all ages, it’s an unforgettable experience that brings the beauty of the season to life. Whether you’re a flower enthusiast, a photography lover, or just searching for a delightful day trip, this fest offers something special for everyone. So grab your camera, tiptoe through the tulips, and make memories surrounded by breathtaking blooms! 🌷