Tulip Days at Exploration Acres in Lafayette is one of the easier spring day trips from Indianapolis and one of the more photogenic ones too. The farm plants over 400,000 tulips and 25,000 daffodils across multiple acres, all arranged in maze designs. So instead of walking past rows of flowers, your family actually wanders through them.
The 2026 season features two field designs: a brand-new hummingbird and the returning butterfly from 2025. It is the largest display Exploration Acres has done so far.
If you’re looking for more seasonal outings, check out our guide to Indiana day trips perfect for spring for even more family adventures worth the drive.
What to Expect at Tulip Days
The setup is straightforward. You walk through the tulip mazes, take pictures and enjoy being outside on a spring day. There are seasonal treats on-site, and the pace is relaxed enough that little kids can take their time without anyone feeling rushed.
The paths wind through the blooms, so there is plenty of room to spread out. It does not have that packed, elbow-to-elbow feel that some seasonal events can, which is a nice change for families with younger kids.
Pick-Your-Own Tulips
Guests can pick their own tulips and put together a bouquet to take home. Pricing for 2026 was not listed on the website at the time of this update, so check the Exploration Acres pricing page before your visit for current per-stem and bouquet options.
Know Before You Go
Tickets are sold online in advance. The farm’s website shows a ticket sale cutoff the night before the tentative opening, so plan to buy ahead rather than counting on gate sales. Check the pricing page for current ticket options.
Service dogs are the only pets allowed. The farm also recommends keeping a close eye on phones, keys and other valuables since lost items are tough to track down once you are out in the fields. Weather closures are posted on the Exploration Acres Facebook page, so a quick check the morning of your visit is a good idea.
Lafayette is about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes from Indianapolis depending on where you start. Most of the drive is a straight shot up I-65, which makes it manageable even with younger kids in the car.
Event Details
- Dates: Tentative opening April 6, 2026, with a tentative close in late April
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Location: 6042 Newcastle Road, Lafayette, IN 47905
The bloom window and schedule are weather dependent, so check the Exploration Acres website or the farm’s Facebook page before you head out. Wear comfortable shoes you do not mind getting a little dirty, and bring a camera.
