Having visited the famous Raleigh sunflower field in Dix Park for many years, we have all the tips you need to know for a successful and picture-perfect visit!
The sunflowers are in Dorothea Dix Park, near the Raleigh Farmers Market just outside downtown Raleigh. They're open daily from dawn to dusk, including holidays. While the park is open daily all year, the sunflowers are a seasonal summer attraction.
You can drive to the sunflower field in Raleigh, bike or walk on the Rocky Branch Greenway. If you drive, there is ample free parking.
Time you'll spend there depends on what you want to accomplish. You need at least 30 to 45 minutes if you want to simply walk around and snap a few photos. You'll need more time for professional photos or to take more pictures of your family and children when you visit.
Leashed pets are welcomed. Be kind and courteous about curbing your pet's waste if you bring Fido along!
The sunflowers slowly grow from the ground in June, then their peak lasts about two weeks when they fully flower in July. Mid-July is always a good estimate for when they will bloom and be photo-ready.
NCMA Sunflower (& Flower) Field
The park is open from dawn to dusk (sunrise to sunset). The earlier you go, whether a weekday or weekend, the less busy it will be.
A note about the bees: There are plenty of bees on the Raleigh sunflowers. If you have a bee phobia (melissophobia, as it's called) this may not be the place for you.
Inevitably, weekends are busier than weekdays. The field is open from dawn 'til dusk every day. We like to visit the sunflowers before peak, during, and afterward on a week day.
There are limited port-a-potties near the sunflowers. There are also indoor bathrooms available at The Chapel during visitor hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm