This is a sponsored post, however, all opinions are my own.
Are you looking for things to do at the Carlsbad Flower Fields? There are so many options, but my favorite was the Tractor Wagon ride. We did this first, and I’m so glad we did.
Table of contents
- Parking at the Carlsbad Flower Fields
- When Can You See Flower Fields in Carlsbad?
- The History of the Carlsbad Ranch
- Things to do at the Carlsbad Ranch
- Take a Tractor Wagon Ride
- Go on a Walking Tour at The Flower Fields
- Visit the Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse
- Take a Scenic Walk on the Nearby Paseo del Norte Walkway
- Check out the Onsite Gift Shop at the Carlsbad Flower Fields
- Visit the Butterfly Garden
- Visit the Artist Gardens
- Check out the Food trucks at the Flower Fields
- Visit Santa’s Playground
- Check out Carlsbad Mining Company
- Visit the Illusion Garden
- View the Historic Poinsettia Display
- Take a Group Tour
- Take the kids to the Sweet Pea Maze
- Sea of Sunflowers
- Get a Sweet Treat at the Flower Fields
- U-Pick Blueberries
- Take a Tractor Wagon Ride
- Special Events at Carlsbad Flower Fields
- Private Events at The Flower Fields
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Carlsbad Flower Fields are an iconic springtime attraction in Southern California. Stretching across 50 acres of the historic Carlsbad ranch in the rolling hills of North San Diego county, the rainbow colors of the Ranunculus flowers are a breathtaking sight to behold. Between March 1st and Mother’s Day, this local heritage site comes to life with mother nature’s displays of natural color.
These colorful flower fields have become a seasonal attraction for locals and visitors alike, offering an idyllic escape from the everyday hustle and bustle during the arrival of spring. With blooming flowers, scenic views, and a great location near Paseo del Norte, the Carlsbad flower fields are sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.
Table of contents
- Parking at the Carlsbad Flower Fields
- When Can You See Flower Fields in Carlsbad?
- The History of the Carlsbad Ranch
- Things to do at the Carlsbad Ranch
- Take a Tractor Wagon Ride
- Go on a Walking Tour at The Flower Fields
- Visit the Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse
- Take a Scenic Walk on the Nearby Paseo del Norte Walkway
- Check out the Onsite Gift Shop at the Carlsbad Flower Fields
- Visit the Butterfly Garden
- Visit the Artist Gardens
- Check out the Food trucks at the Flower Fields
- Visit Santa’s Playground
- Check out Carlsbad Mining Company
- Visit the Illusion Garden
- View the Historic Poinsettia Display
- Take a Group Tour
- Take the kids to the Sweet Pea Maze
- Sea of Sunflowers
- Get a Sweet Treat at the Flower Fields
- U-Pick Blueberries
- Special Events at Carlsbad Flower Fields
- Private Events at The Flower Fields
- Frequently Asked Questions
Parking at the Carlsbad Flower Fields
Visitors can park their cars in the surrounding farmland, so there’s plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the famous fields.
When Can You See Flower Fields in Carlsbad?
Located just north of San Diego, the Flower Fields have their annual burst of color every year from early March to mid-May, which makes it the best time to visit. Visitors can enjoy the blooming 55 acres of giant Tecolote Ranunculus blooms, as well as other seasonal wildflowers, such as lupines and poppies. These flowers bloom for approximately six to eight weeks each year.
The History of the Carlsbad Ranch
In addition to its stunning beauty, the Carlsbad fields are also famous for their history as a working flower farm with roots that stretch back over 75 years. This sustainable working farm started in the 1880s when Walter and Elizabeth Kelley planted their ranunculus fields. Today, they are a popular attraction for locals. To see the full 55 acres of colorful flowers, visitors should access the fields from Paseo del Norte.
Things to do at the Carlsbad Ranch
At the flower fields, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. The Flower Fields also have a variety of fun activities for children and families, such as a wagon ride, visiting Santa’s Playground, and the Butterfly Garden. Visitors can also purchase snacks from onsite vendors.
Take a Tractor Wagon Ride
You can take a tractor wagon ride and tour on an antique tractor- narrated by a knowledgeable guide. You can purchase tickets for the Wagon Tour after arriving. The cost is $8 for adults, $4 for children between ages 3-10, and free for children under 3. The wagon rides are a must for everyone.
Go on a Walking Tour at The Flower Fields
Explore the colorful fields on foot – with a map. They have set up a walking tour map, which will lead you to different flower varieties.
Visit the Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse
Check out the Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse -a large greenhouse near the entrance of the fields. This is where you can view and purchase an array of colorful cymbidium orchids.
Take a Scenic Walk on the Nearby Paseo del Norte Walkway
If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, stroll along the nearby Paseo del Norte walkway. This scenic path offers stunning views of the flower fields and is perfect for an afternoon picnic or sunset stroll.
Check out the Onsite Gift Shop at the Carlsbad Flower Fields
Shop- a-holics can check out the onsite gift shop for unique flower-themed souvenirs and gifts.
Visit the Butterfly Garden
Stop by the Butterfly Garden to see various butterflies in their natural habitat.
Visit the Artist Gardens
The Flower Fields also feature a seasonal art show, where local artists display their work in an outdoor gallery setting.
Check out the Food trucks at the Flower Fields
There are also a variety of food trucks scattered throughout the Flower Fields, so you can grab a quick bite to eat while taking in the beautiful views.
Visit Santa’s Playground
The Flower Fields also feature a kid-friendly area for the little ones, complete with whimsical playhouses, games, and other activities.
Check out Carlsbad Mining Company
Use the miner’s traditional sluicing method of running water through boxes filled with sand to discover your refined gemstones.
Visit the Illusion Garden
This is a unique maze of optical illusions and colorful art.
View the Historic Poinsettia Display
The Illusion Garden also features a historic poinsettia display, showcasing the gorgeous Christmas bloom.
Take a Group Tour
Group tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history and ecology of the flower fields.
Take the kids to the Sweet Pea Maze
The Sweet Pea Maze is a fun and interactive maze filled with colorful sweet peas for the kids to explore.
Sea of Sunflowers
Check out the Sea of Sunflowers, usually in April.
Get a Sweet Treat at the Flower Fields
Enjoy some ice cream, Kettle corn, or cotton candy!
U-Pick Blueberries
You can visit our 2-acre U-Pick blueberry patch every Friday until May 14th, which is seasonal.
Special Events at Carlsbad Flower Fields
They have many events happening from Sunset Wine Tasting, Flower Flow Yoga, workshops, Picnic and Flowers, to a fun Mother’s Day.
Private Events at The Flower Fields
The Carlsbad flower fields are also popular venues for weddings, field trips, showers, birthday parties, and corporate events. The experienced team will provide everything you need at the event space to ensure your special day is perfect – from the decorations and entertainment to tasty cuisine catered by local restaurants.
Check their calendar of events here
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are tickets to the Carlsbad Flower Fields?
Admission is $16 for adults and $14 for children ages 3-10.
Mondays – With the purchase of one adult or one senior/military, you receive one child’s ticket free (ages 3-10).
Tuesdays & Wednesdays – Between 1:00 pm-4:00 pm, receive $2 off adults, seniors/military, and children tickets. Season passes are also available.
What photography equipment is allowed at The Flower Fields?
Cam, phones, and tripods are permitted. However, if you want to bring any other equipment, you should book a photo shoot in advance.
What time are the flower fields open?
The Carlsbad Flower Fields are typically open from 9:30am to 6 pm daily from March through May.
Can I bring pets to the flower fields?
Unfortunately, no pets are allowed in the flower fields. Service animals with proper identification are welcome.
Are there restrooms available at the flower fields?
Yes, there are restrooms available for visitors.
Is there a food court or picnic area at the flower fields?
The Carlsbad Flower Fields have a variety of food truck vendors offering pizza, snacks, and drinks. Additionally, there is plenty of space to picnic in the surrounding area.
How long does it take to go through the Carlsbad Flower Fields?
A typical visit to the flower fields takes about one to two hours. You can easily spend more time if you take a wagon tour or explore the nearby trails and art gardens.
Come out and experience this beautiful springtime attraction – you won’t regret it! So what are you waiting for?
Related Articles
