Spring is here! Spring is here! Imagine more than 50 acres of giant ranunculus flowers painting an idyllic hillside in reds, whites, oranges, yellows, and pinks; announcing the end of winter’s gloom and the beginning of springtime. The smell of the sea mixes with the spring blooms drowning your senses in a sweet but salty fragrance, while the crisp ocean air cools you down as you stroll through the seemingly endless rows of these gorgeous flowers in the California sun.
Just north of San Diego, in the picturesque seaside community of Carlsbad lies a hidden field between an Outlet Mall and LegoLand, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. Started over 100 years ago by horticulturist Luther Gage, the flower fields have grown to be one of San Diego’s largest spring attractions and to many locals a springtime rite of passage. With over 100,000 visitors walking through the gates each year there is something for the whole family. From tractor rides that pull you through the fields, to a personal guide that gives you the inside scoop on the property, they even have horticulture classes for the kiddos! It’s no wonder the flower fields are one of the most unique and beautiful attractions in Southern California and shouldn’t be missed. Be warned though; this will only last from mid March to mid May, so if you put it off...you might just have to wait till next year.
Things You Should Know
When does it take place
March 1, 2019 - May 15, 2019
If you missed it this year, there is always next year...Always early March thru early May
Where does it take place
The Flower Fields
5704 Paseo Del Norte
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Prices
General Admission $18
AAA Member $17
Seniors 60+/ Military Members $16
Children 3-10 $9
Parking Free!
Season passes
Adults $39
Seniors 60+ $34
Children 3-10 $20
Wagon Ride
Hours
Daily 9am - 6pm
Adults $5
Children 3-10 $3
Group Tours 20+ people (advanced reservation required)
Group guided with wagon $29
Group guided without wagon $24
Self guided with wagon $21
Self guided without wagon $16
Group Tours (20 or more)*
Parking Free!
Things I Wish Someone Had Told Me
It gets a little chilly. While the temperature is 50-70 year round in San Diego County the wind coming off the pacific ocean this time of year could be chilly. Best to bring something lightweight so you can take it on and off easily.
You will be doing a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes to walk around in. 50 acres is a lot to cover especially if you don’t take the wagon ride.
No alcohol and no tobacco! This is a family place people so just enjoy the scenery.
The other no’s. No pets, bicycles, hoverboards or drones! These are not permitted on the grounds.
Don’t pick them but you can actually buy the flowers. You can’t pick them on site but there are flowers to purchase in the flower shop right outside the exit.
Things You Will Need
Money All vendors accept credit cards and cash.
A lightweight sweater because it can get a little chilly.
A camera you can bring in any camera that you’d like. My phone worked perfectly for this. Make sure you get a photo with the rusted tractors...pretty cool.
Have fun it’s Spring!
#anamericanexplorer #getoutgoexplore #adventuresd #travel #experience #springtime #SanDiego #exploreCA #theflowerdields #ranunculus #blooms #CarlsbadCA #Flowers #pretty #Ocean #doingthings #lafun #laexplorers #nocomfortzones #trynewthings #goingnewplaces #liveinthemoment #bepresent #alwayssayyes #neversayno #pushinglimits #challengeyourself #Challengeyourself #fun #Spring
