Discover the Largest Corn Maze in the Entire World

There is no time like fall to get lost in a corn maze. When it comes to the uniquely American experience, many families look forward to the tradition of finding their way through the labyrinth of green stalks that twist and turn across acres of farmland. And sometimes, one maze can mean a LOT of acres.
In the U.S.A., “bigger is always better,” and corn mazes are no exception. That’s why it’s no wonder America is home to the largest corn maze in the world.
However, before this autumn tradition took hold of U.S. farmland, mazes appeared in Egyptian and Greek culture.
In early history, labyrinths were used for spiritual purposes and followed a single path. Later, aristocrats entertained guests with mazes in Europe during the late 17th century by cutting their hedges into garden activities. It wasn’t until modern times that corn mazes came into popular culture. Don Frantz and Adrian Fisher built the first corn maze in 1993. Before that, they had worked on Superbowl Halftime shows.
Frantz and Fisher built the original corn maze at Lebanon Valley College in Annville, Pennsylvania. “The Amazing Maize Maze” was 3 acres, and it featured the shape of a dinosaur named “Cornelius the Cobasaurus.“

Today, corn mazes with intricate designs are made with computer-generated graphics and GPS-guided mowers that cut shapes into the field automatically.
Are you looking for the largest corn maze in the world? Then look no further than the “Corn State.”

Richardson Adventure Farm in Spring Grove, Illinois

This season, the Richardson Adventure Farm hosts 28 acres of corn shaped into a Jurassic Park-themed maze. The winding stalks are about 65 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. The corn maze hosts 10 miles of high vegetation, and that’s just the tip of what this farm offers.

The Adventure Farm opened on September 9, revealing a waterfall, a movie-themed jeep, a brachiosaurus, and a T-Rex in the maze. Attendees can choose from five games that vary in length and difficulty, including the farm scene investigation game, quiz questions, and finding all 24 hidden checkpoints.

“This year, we’re turning back time as we pay tribute to the legendary movie Jurassic Park, which hit screens 30 years ago. Get ready to tread amidst towering corn walls, reliving the thrill of the past while making unforgettable memories,” the Richardson Farm announcement said.

Although 10 miles of winding maze may feel overwhelming to some, don’t worry too much if you’re nervous to jump in. According to the Richardson Adventure Farm website, there are plenty of exit points with hot chocolate and snacks to refuel between mazing. 

Also, four smaller mazes make up the giant maze, so you don’t have to commit. 

Lastly, for those still weary of such a colossal feat of corn maze, the farm provides bridge checkpoints throughout. From the top of the checkpoints, you’ll be able to see where you’re located within the maze. 

“There’s a left-turns-only route and a right-turns-only route,” Wendy Richardson told Secret Chicago. “There are bridges to climb to get a view of where you are. Parents with little kids can walk in without worrying about getting lost.”

However, if you feel you haven’t spent enough time in the 28 acres of maze, there are also plenty of other attractions. 

The farm has a 50-foot observation tower, a train ride, giant slides, pedal karts, zorbing (riding inside a big ball down a hill), a zip line, a petting zoo (with a live pig race), a pumpkin patch, picnic areas, and a sunflower field boasting 13 acres. So, it may be wise to arrive early!

The Richardson Adventure Farm also hosts special events for those looking for extra fun this Halloween. The maze will open late on October 27 and October 28. On October 15, the farm will host the Corn Maze 5K Run and a one-mile kids run. The race benefits Trees for Troops nonprofit.

For those who would like to enjoy a spooky experience, the farm will host nights in October, where it will be open until midnight. Campfires will be available for parties to rent after their adventure.

Lastly, post Halloween, you can still have fun at the maze. On November 4, the horseback riders can come to wonder the corn! 

During October, tickets cost $24 on Thursdays and Fridays for people aged 13 and up and $30 on Saturdays and Sundays. The farm is closed Monday through Wednesday. You can find more information about tickets and ticket prices on the Richardson Adventure Farm website.