do i buy tickets in advance?

You really don't need to, but if you live in the area consider a season pass!

Hi Charles! We recommend buying tickets online in advance to ensure your time slot doesn't sell out, and for faster entry. As long as tickets are still available you're welcome to purchase at the door!

We went on Mother's Day weekend and the only thing I suggest buying in advance is the Tulip Festival (you don't *have* to, but the line was super long unless you had a reservation).

Didn't have to have advance tickets. Depending on the day if they get too busy you might have to wait as they can reach capacity. So it doesn't hurt to get a reservation to ensure you get in.

You don't have to, you can buy them at the door when you get there. If you do buy them online you still have to check in at the front desk or at least that's how it was when we went in April.