Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream Travel Guide

Our Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream guide covers practical planning for Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream Connecticut — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.

For those seeking an authentic taste of New England charm paired with delightful homemade treats and breathtaking natural beauty, Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream Connecticut is an essential stop on any itinerary. We’re not talking about a generic roadside stand; this is a destination that truly captures the spirit of Connecticut’s rural landscape, offering much more than just a scoop of ice cream. Our team has explored this beloved farm to bring you the definitive guide to planning your visit, ensuring you experience all its unique offerings, from its famous creamy concoctions to the spectacular sunflower maze that draws crowds from across the region each summer.

Why Visit Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream

Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream stands out as a quintessential Connecticut experience, blending agricultural heritage with a beloved culinary tradition. Since 1975, the Button family has cultivated this working farm, originally as a dairy operation, before evolving into the renowned ice cream stand we cherish today [cite: 4, 28]. What truly sets this place apart is its unwavering commitment to quality: we're talking about over 50 flavors of premium, farm-fresh ice cream, made in small batches right on the premises [cite: 7, 24]. Each scoop delivers a uniquely rich, smooth, and clean flavor, crafted from old family recipes and the finest ingredients, some sourced globally, others locally [cite: 24, 28].

Beyond the irresistible ice cream, Buttonwood Farm is celebrated for its stunning 14-acre sunflower fields. These aren't just for show; they're the heart of the annual "Sunflowers for Wishes" fundraiser, a heartwarming initiative that has raised over $2 million for Make-A-Wish Connecticut [cite: 3, 18, 21, 23]. Imagine wandering through a sea of over 300,000 vibrant blooms, knowing that your visit contributes to granting wishes for children with critical illnesses [cite: 18, 21]. It's a truly feel-good frolic, as one traveler put it [cite: 9]. The farm's scenic landscape, complete with historic stonewalls and grazing cattle, provides a picturesque backdrop that has even earned it a spot on Better Homes & Gardens' list of the 11 most beautiful sunflower fields in the country [cite: 18, 23]. We find that the combination of delicious, homemade ice cream and the philanthropic beauty of the sunflowers makes Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream an incredibly rewarding destination.

Who It's Best For

Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream offers something special for nearly everyone, making it an ideal destination for a diverse range of visitors. Families with children will find endless delight here. Kids can marvel at the farm animals, especially the cows that graze in the pastures [cite: 3, 23], and explore the walking paths through the sunflower fields. The casual, outdoor setting is perfect for little ones to run around and enjoy a sweet treat. The farm's commitment to Make-A-Wish also provides a wonderful opportunity to teach children about giving back to the community.

Couples looking for a charming and romantic outing will appreciate the picturesque setting, especially during the sunflower bloom. Imagine strolling hand-in-hand through the golden fields, perhaps with an ice cream cone in the other, as the sun sets. It’s a perfect spot for memorable photos and a relaxed date. Nature lovers and photographers will be in their element with the expansive sunflower fields, offering unparalleled opportunities for stunning landscape and portrait shots. The farm even has a photography policy for professional shoots, requiring a $75 donation to Make-A-Wish per client [cite: 26].

Foodies and dessert enthusiasts, naturally, will be drawn to the exceptional quality and variety of the homemade ice cream, with over 50 flavors to explore [cite: 24]. And for anyone simply seeking a peaceful escape from the everyday hustle, Buttonwood Farm provides a tranquil, rural atmosphere where you can kick back, enjoy the fresh air, and savor a taste of authentic Connecticut countryside [cite: 3, 28]. It's a place where memories are made, whether you're a local or visiting from afar.

Getting There & Parking

Navigating to Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream Connecticut is straightforward, whether you're coming from within the state or a bit further afield. The farm is conveniently located at 473 Shetucket Turnpike, Griswold, CT 06351 [cite: 2, 3, 4, 7, 9]. We recommend plugging this address directly into your GPS for the most accurate directions.

For those traveling from major cities, here are some general routes:

• From Boston, MA (approx. 89 miles): Take I-90 West (Mass. Pike) to Exit 10 (Auburn), then I-395 South to Exit 21. Cross over Route 138, turn left onto Route 164 South for 5 miles, then left onto Route 165 East for 5 miles to reach Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream [cite: 2].
• From Providence, RI (approx. 34 miles): Take I-95 South to Rhode Island Exit 14A, then 1 mile south on Route 102. Turn right onto Route 3 South for 1 mile, then right onto Route 165 West for 13 miles to Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream [cite: 2].
• From Hartford, CT (approx. 49 miles): Take Route 2 East to Exit 28N, then I-395 North to Exit 21. Turn right onto Route 164 South for 5 miles, then left onto Route 165 East for 5 miles to Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream [cite: 2].
• From New York, NY (approx. 130 miles): Take I-95 North to Exit 76 (left exit in New Haven), then I-395 North to Exit 21. Take Route 164 South for 5 miles, then left onto Route 165 East for 5 miles to Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream [cite: 2].
• From Mystic, CT (approx. 17 miles): Take Exit 90 (Seaport exit) off I-95, then Route 27 North. Turn right onto Route 184, cross over Lantern Hill Road, then 5.5 miles left onto Route 2 West. Continue 2 miles to a right on Route 164 North, 3 miles to a right on Route 165 East, and 5 miles on Route 165 East to Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream [cite: 2].

Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream Parking

When it comes to parking, Buttonwood Farm has you covered, though it's important to be aware of peak times. There is a large gravel lot directly at the ice cream stand [cite: 17]. However, during the popular "Sunflowers for Wishes" event in late July, this lot can fill up very quickly [cite: 6, 17]. To accommodate the influx of visitors, the farm opens an additional large field for parking [cite: 6, 9, 17]. If you're driving a bus, note that all buses must park in the field located on Route 201 [cite: 6, 7]. We always recommend arriving earlier in the day, especially during the sunflower event, to secure a convenient spot. Limited handicapped parking is also available near the ice cream stand [cite: 6].

Top Things to Do

A visit to Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream is an experience rich with simple, wholesome pleasures. Our team has highlighted the absolute must-dos to make your trip unforgettable.

Things to do at Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream

• Indulge in Homemade Ice Cream: This is, without a doubt, the primary attraction. Buttonwood Farm boasts over 50 flavors of farm-fresh, small-batch ice cream, made with premium ingredients right on the farm [cite: 7, 24]. From classic vanilla and chocolate to unique creations like Purple Cow (black raspberry with white chocolate chips) and seasonal delights like Sunflower ice cream (available during the event), there's a flavor for every palate [cite: 23, 24, 28]. They also offer non-dairy, sugar-free, and low-fat options, along with fresh-made waffle cones and real whipped cream [cite: 3, 23, 24]. Don't miss the chance to try a scoop (or two!) of their famous confections.
• Explore the Sunflower Fields: From mid-July to late July, the farm transforms into a breathtaking spectacle with 14 acres of sunflowers in full bloom [cite: 3, 9, 18, 23]. The "Sunflowers for Wishes" event, held from July 18-26, 2026, allows visitors to wander through designated walking fields for free [cite: 6, 9, 18, 21]. You can also enter a "cut your own" field for a $3 per person admission fee and a $3 donation per flower, with all proceeds benefiting Make-A-Wish Connecticut [cite: 6, 18, 21]. It’s a truly immersive and photo-worthy experience, and one of the top things to do at Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream.
• Meet the Farm Animals: As a working farm, Buttonwood offers the chance to see cattle grazing in the pastures [cite: 3, 23]. It’s a charming reminder of the farm's dairy roots and a simple pleasure for visitors of all ages, particularly children.
• Enjoy a Picnic: While there's no indoor seating, the farm provides picnic tables and ample space around the ice cream stand to spread out a blanket and enjoy your treats amidst the beautiful rural scenery [cite: 3, 6]. You're welcome to bring your own food, but please keep picnics out of the farm fields [cite: 6].
• Capture Memories: The picturesque setting, especially the sunflower fields, is a photographer's dream. Guests are welcome to take photos for personal use. Professional photographers planning shoots should be aware of the farm's photography policy, which requires a $75 donation to Make-A-Wish per client for access during business hours [cite: 26].

Things to do in Griswold and Nearby

While Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream is a destination in itself, the surrounding area of Griswold and Southeastern Connecticut offers a wealth of additional attractions to round out your visit. We encourage you to explore these local gems:

• Pachaug State Forest: As Connecticut's largest state forest, Pachaug State Forest is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. It offers extensive opportunities for hiking, camping, and enjoying nature's tranquility [cite: 15]. Be sure to bring bug spray, especially during warmer months.
• Hopeville Pond State Park: A serene spot perfect for a relaxing day outdoors, Hopeville Pond State Park allows for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking by the water [cite: 15]. It's a great place to unwind after a sweet treat.
• River Ridge Golf Course: For golf aficionados, River Ridge Golf Course provides a scenic backdrop for a round of golf, appealing to both seasoned players and those just looking for a casual game [cite: 14, 15].
• Skate Inn (Plainfield): Just a short drive away in Plainfield, Skate Inn offers a nostalgic, old-school roller skating experience, perfect for family fun or reliving your own childhood memories [cite: 15].
• Local Shops and Eateries: Griswold has a charming, small-town feel with a few unique spots worth checking out. The Pachaug Picker is an antique store filled with quirky finds, while the Chocolate Rose Bakeshop offers delicious cookies, cakes, and chocolates [cite: 15].
• Mystic Seaport Museum: A short drive from Griswold, the Mystic Seaport Museum is a world-renowned maritime museum, an authentic 19th-century seafaring village with historic ships, exhibits, and a working shipyard. It's a fantastic day out for history buffs and families alike [cite: 14, 19].
• Mystic Aquarium: Also in Mystic, the Mystic Aquarium is home to beluga whales, penguins, and a variety of marine life, offering engaging exhibits and a marine theater. It's an excellent choice for an educational and entertaining experience [cite: 14, 19].
• Casinos: For adult entertainment, the world-class Mohegan Sun Casino and Foxwoods Resort Casino are both within a reasonable driving distance, offering gaming, dining, shopping, and live entertainment [cite: 10, 11, 12, 25].

Best Time to Visit

Timing your visit to Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream can significantly enhance your experience, especially if you're keen to witness the farm's celebrated sunflower fields. We've broken down the best times to go:

Sunflower Season: Late July is Peak Bloom

Without a doubt, the most spectacular time to visit is during late summer when the sunflower maze is in full bloom. For 2026, the highly anticipated "Sunflowers for Wishes" event is scheduled from July 18-26 [cite: 6, 9, 18, 21]. During this roughly nine-day window, the farm's 14 acres burst into a vibrant sea of yellow, with over 300,000 sunflowers creating an unforgettable landscape [cite: 18, 21, 23]. This is when the fields are at their most magnificent, offering prime photo opportunities and the chance to cut your own sunflowers for a donation to Make-A-Wish Connecticut [cite: 6, 18, 21]. The peak bloom typically lasts for about two weeks, but the exact timing can vary slightly depending on Mother Nature, so we always recommend checking the farm's "Sunflower Status" closer to your planned visit [cite: 6].

During the "Sunflowers for Wishes" event, the ice cream shop extends its hours to 11 AM - 9 PM, while the sunflower fields are open from 10 AM - 8 PM [cite: 6, 9]. Be aware that this is the busiest time, so expect larger crowds, especially on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the thickest throngs.

Off-Peak Season: Spring and Fall

If your primary goal is to enjoy the delicious ice cream without the sunflower crowds, Buttonwood Farm is open from March 1st to October 31st [cite: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7].

• Spring (March-May): Visiting in spring offers a quieter experience. The farm's regular hours are Monday-Friday from 1 PM to 8 PM, and Saturday-Sunday from 12 PM to 8 PM [cite: 2, 4]. You can savor your ice cream amidst the budding Connecticut countryside, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere before the summer rush.
• Early Summer (June-early July): Before the sunflowers bloom, early summer still provides pleasant weather for an ice cream outing. The farm operates under its regular hours, and you'll find fewer visitors than during the "Sunflowers for Wishes" event.
• Fall (September-October): As the leaves begin to change, Buttonwood Farm offers a charming autumn experience. While the sunflowers will be gone, you can still enjoy the delicious ice cream and the crisp fall air. Some older sources mention a corn maze and pumpkin patch in the fall [cite: 22, 28], though the current focus is on ice cream and sunflowers. It's a lovely time for a scenic drive and a sweet treat.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream depends on your priorities. For the full sunflower spectacle, late July is your window. For a more tranquil ice cream experience, we suggest spring or fall.

Where to Stay Nearby

When planning your trip to Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream Connecticut, choosing the right lodging can significantly enhance your experience. While Griswold itself offers a few convenient options, the surrounding towns provide a wider array of choices, from cozy inns to larger resorts, many within a short drive. Our team has identified some excellent Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream lodging options to consider.

Hotels in Griswold

For direct access to the charm of Griswold, you'll find a few reliable choices. The Comfort Inn Griswold is a popular option, often highlighted for its value and convenience [cite: 10, 13, 20, 25]. It's a solid choice for families and budget-conscious travelers, often offering amenities like complimentary breakfast and free WiFi [cite: 13, 20]. While Griswold might not have a vast selection of luxury hotels, these options provide a comfortable base for exploring the farm and the local area.

Lodging in Nearby Towns

Many visitors choose to stay in the vibrant neighboring towns, which offer more extensive amenities and attractions. These areas are typically just a 15-30 minute drive from Buttonwood Farm:

• Mystic, CT: A perennial favorite, Mystic is about 17 miles from Buttonwood Farm [cite: 2]. It boasts a charming downtown, the renowned Mystic Seaport Museum, and the Mystic Aquarium. Lodging options here include the Best Western Mystic Hotel [cite: 10, 12, 20], Spark by Hilton Mystic Groton [cite: 10, 20], and the quaint Stonecroft Country Inn, a cozy bed and breakfast perfect for a romantic getaway [cite: 16]. Mystic offers a wider range of dining and shopping experiences.
• Uncasville/Mashantucket, CT: Home to the major casinos, Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casino, these areas offer extensive lodging, dining, and entertainment. You'll find resorts like Mohegan Sun [cite: 10, 25], The Fox Tower at Foxwoods [cite: 10, 12, 25], and other hotels such as Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Uncasville Casino Area [cite: 10, 25], Hyatt Place Uncasville - Casino Area [cite: 12, 25], and Hilton Garden Inn Preston Casino Area [cite: 11, 12, 25]. These are excellent choices if you plan to combine your farm visit with casino entertainment.
• Norwich, CT: A slightly larger city, Norwich offers a variety of hotels including Comfort Suites Near Casinos Norwich-Uncasville CT [cite: 11, 25] and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Norwich-Plainfield-Casino [cite: 11, 25]. It provides a convenient central location for exploring Eastern Connecticut.
• North Stonington, CT: Closer to Foxwoods, North Stonington offers options like the Hilltop Inn and Suites, near Foxwoods Casino [cite: 10, 12, 20, 25].

When considering Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream lodging, we recommend booking in advance, especially if your visit coincides with the "Sunflowers for Wishes" event or other popular summer weekends, as accommodations in this popular region can fill up quickly. For more ideas on where to stay and what to do across the state, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to the Best places in Connecticut.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you make the most of your visit to Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream and the beautiful surrounding region of Southeastern Connecticut, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary. This plan balances the farm's unique charm with other local attractions, ensuring a memorable trip.

Day 1: Buttonwood Farm & Griswold's Local Delights

Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Immerse in Sunflowers and Ice Cream

• Start your day bright and early at Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream. If you're visiting during the "Sunflowers for Wishes" event (July 18-26, 2026), arrive shortly after the fields open at 10 AM to experience the stunning 14-acre sunflower maze with fewer crowds [cite: 6, 9].
• Wander through the walking fields, take breathtaking photos, and consider visiting the "cut your own" field to create a bouquet for a $3 per person admission and $3 per flower donation to Make-A-Wish Connecticut [cite: 6, 18, 21].
• Around lunchtime, head to the ice cream stand, which opens at 11 AM during the event [cite: 6, 9]. Choose from over 50 flavors of homemade ice cream, perhaps even the seasonal Sunflower flavor [cite: 23, 24]. Enjoy your treat at one of the picnic tables or find a spot on the grass.

Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Griswold's Natural Beauty

• After your farm visit, explore the natural attractions of Griswold. Drive to Pachaug State Forest for a leisurely hike on one of its many trails [cite: 15]. Enjoy the tranquility and fresh air of Connecticut's largest state forest.
• Alternatively, head to Hopeville Pond State Park, where you can enjoy the peaceful lakeside scenery, perhaps rent a kayak, or simply relax by the water [cite: 15].

Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Local Flavors & Relaxation

• Dine at a local restaurant in Griswold or a nearby town like Norwich for a taste of regional cuisine.
• Check into your Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream lodging. If you've chosen a hotel in Mystic or Uncasville, take some time to explore the evening offerings there, whether it's a stroll by the water in Mystic or some entertainment at one of the casinos.

Day 2: Coastal Charm or Casino Excitement

Option A: Mystic's Coastal Wonders

Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM): Maritime History & Marine Life

• Head to Mystic, approximately a 17-mile drive from Buttonwood Farm [cite: 2]. Begin your day at the Mystic Seaport Museum, immersing yourself in 19th-century maritime life, exploring historic ships, and visiting the working preservation shipyard [cite: 14, 19].
• Alternatively, spend your morning at the Mystic Aquarium, home to beluga whales, penguins, and a fascinating array of marine exhibits and shows [cite: 14, 19].

Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Downtown Mystic & Shopping

• Enjoy lunch at one of Mystic's many acclaimed restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining.
• Spend the afternoon browsing the unique boutiques and artisan shops in downtown Mystic, crossing the iconic Bascule Bridge.

Option B: Casino Thrills & Entertainment

Morning & Afternoon (10:00 AM - 5:00 PM): Gaming & Resort Amenities

• Drive to either Mohegan Sun or Foxwoods Resort Casino, both major entertainment complexes near Griswold [cite: 10, 11, 12, 25].
• Spend your day exploring the gaming floors, enjoying diverse dining options, shopping at luxury boutiques, or catching a matinee show or concert. Many resorts also offer spa services and pools.

Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Farewell Dinner

• Enjoy a final dinner, whether it's a gourmet meal at a casino resort, a fresh seafood experience in Mystic, or a cozy meal in your chosen lodging area.

This itinerary provides a flexible framework, allowing you to tailor your Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream Connecticut adventure to your interests, ensuring you experience the best of this charming corner of New England.

Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream with kids

Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream is an excellent destination for families with kids. Our team finds that children particularly enjoy seeing the farm's cows grazing in the pastures [cite: 3, 23]. The highlight for many kids is, of course, the wide array of over 50 homemade ice cream flavors, offering plenty of choices to delight even the pickiest eaters [cite: 24]. During the "Sunflowers for Wishes" event (July 18-26, 2026), kids can explore the walking paths through the vast sunflower fields, which are perfect for memorable family photos [cite: 6, 9, 18]. There's also the fun option of cutting their own sunflowers from the designated field for a small fee and donation, which teaches them about supporting a good cause like Make-A-Wish Connecticut [cite: 6, 18, 21]. The outdoor setting with picnic tables allows for a relaxed and casual visit, letting kids enjoy their treats and the open space [cite: 3, 6].

Best hotels near Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream

When searching for the best hotels near Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream, you have several excellent options, ranging from convenient local stays to more extensive resorts in nearby towns. In Griswold itself, the Comfort Inn Griswold is a highly-rated choice, known for its good value and family-friendly amenities [cite: 10, 13, 20, 25]. For those looking for more amenities or entertainment, the areas around Mystic, Uncasville, and North Stonington offer a broader selection. These include popular choices like Spark by Hilton Mystic Groton [cite: 10, 20] and the Best Western Mystic Hotel [cite: 10, 12, 20] in Mystic. If you're combining your visit with casino entertainment, Mohegan Sun [cite: 10, 25], The Fox Tower at Foxwoods [cite: 10, 12, 25], and the Hilltop Inn and Suites, near Foxwoods Casino [cite: 10, 12, 20, 25] are all within a reasonable drive and offer a wide range of facilities [cite: 10, 11, 12, 25]. For a more charming, intimate experience, Stonecroft Country Inn in Mystic is a lovely bed and breakfast option [cite: 16]. We always recommend booking your Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream lodging in advance, especially during peak season.

Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream tips

To make your visit to Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream as enjoyable as possible, our team has compiled some essential tips. First, if you plan to see the famous sunflower maze, aim for the "Sunflowers for Wishes" event, scheduled for July 18-26, 2026, as this is when the fields are in peak bloom [cite: 6, 9, 18, 21]. Arrive early in the day or later in the afternoon during the sunflower event to avoid the largest crowds [cite: 6]. Be prepared for an outdoor experience; there's no indoor seating, so pack sunglasses, a hat, and perhaps a blanket for picnicking [cite: 3, 6]. Parking is available, but during peak sunflower season, the main lot can fill up, and you might need to use the overflow field on Route 201 [cite: 6, 9, 17]. Don't forget cash or card for the $3 per person admission to the cut-your-own sunflower field and the $3 per flower donation [cite: 6, 18, 21]. Remember to stay on designated paths in the sunflower fields and respect farm property [cite: 26]. Finally, come hungry for ice cream – with over 50 flavors, you'll want to try a few [cite: 24]!

Where to stay near Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream

Deciding where to stay near Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream depends on your travel style and what other attractions you plan to visit. For a straightforward stay closest to the farm, the Comfort Inn Griswold is a practical choice [cite: 10, 13, 20, 25]. However, many visitors opt for the more diverse lodging and entertainment options in nearby Mystic, Uncasville, or North Stonington. Mystic, about 17 miles away, offers a charming coastal experience with hotels like Best Western Mystic Hotel or Spark by Hilton Mystic Groton [cite: 10, 12, 20]. For those interested in casinos and resorts, Uncasville and Mashantucket provide numerous options, including Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casino, along with hotels like Hyatt Place Uncasville - Casino Area or Hilltop Inn and Suites near Foxwoods Casino [cite: 10, 11, 12, 25]. These areas offer a wider range of dining, shopping, and entertainment, making them excellent bases for exploring the wider region of Connecticut.

Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream parking

Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream offers ample parking for visitors, though it's important to be aware of the situation during peak times. There is a large gravel parking lot directly at the ice cream stand [cite: 17]. However, during the highly popular "Sunflowers for Wishes" event (July 18-26, 2026), this main lot can fill up very quickly due to the large number of visitors [cite: