Spring is in the air in Carlsbad — and about to be in full bloom.
North County’s springtime staple, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, will reopen for the 2024 season this Friday, March 1, running through Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 12).
The fields blanketing the rolling hills of the coastal community have been rooted in Carlsbad’s history for 60+ years. The working farm features 55 acres of colorful Giant Tecolote Ranunculus that have become quite the backdrop for gorgeous photos and self-guided, relaxing strolls.
The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch will help usher in spring in SD.
Photo via Sam Loera + The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
🌷 Blossom basics
- First things first: The Flower Fields are open daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Purchase your timed-entry tickets online (the price includes parking), arrive within 30 minutes of your time slot, and stay as long as closing time.
- While the first blooms have sprouted, the season’s peak is late March to early May, so plan your trip accordingly.
🌸 Plant it here
- Don’t miss the fun, family-friendly attractions like the wagon ride, sweet pea maze, gemstone mining, Butterfly Garden, and new Illusion Garden — a nod to “Alice in Wonderland.” Santa’s Playground is also a great spot to let the kids run around.
- Bring a picnic or grab a bite from the vendor stands, which include pizza, soft serve, popcorn, tacos, coffee, lemonade, and the beloved Strawberry Shake from the Strawberry Shack.
- The 2024 activity calendar is full of special events including yoga sessions, live music, wellness workshops, crafting classes, and Kids Day on Saturday, March 23, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Pop-up Picnic Co. is also bringing back its luxury Picnics + Flowers experience every weekend — March 23-May 12, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. — with a picnic-themed lunch, seating, and live music overlooking the flowers.
A close-up of the beautiful blooms.
Photo via Marcie Gonzalez + The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
🌼 Pro tips
- Leave your pets at home.
- If you’re planning to visit more than once this season, consider springing for a season pass.
- If you want to spend a couple of days at the attraction, enjoy a staycation at The Cassara Carlsbad. The coastal hotel overlooks The Flower Fields and is offering a “Stay & See” package throughout the season that includes two tickets to The Flower Fields, a shuttle to the attraction, and a box of floral-flavored chocolates created by local chocolatier Seabreeze Craft Chocolates.
- Local restaurants and bars tend to create items inspired by The Flower Fields this time of year — ask about those specials.
