Escape Into Color With The Flower Fields In Carlsbad

Disclosure: Thank you to The Flower Fields, for hosting our visit in order to facilitate this review.

Have you ever visited The Flower Fields in Carlsbad, California? My husband and I went a few years ago during an anniversary trip, but this year we brought the kids along. This 50 acre working ranch is conveniently located just off the 5 freeway in between Orange County and San Diego.

The main attraction of The Flower Fields is the millions of beautiful ranunculuses (or is it ranunculi?) that stretch as far as the eye can see. However, there are many different attractions at The Flower Fields, so I will take you along on our recent outing.

Arriving At The Flower Fields

My first tip is to try to arrive early in the day. We went on a Sunday, and arrived about five minutes before The Flower Fields opened at 9 a.m. Parking at that time was plentiful, and it is free! All tickets must be purchased in advance online here. Have your tickets ready (either printed out or on your phone).

Fountain Garden

If you head towards the right after going through the entrance, you will come across the aptly named Fountain Garden. We made this our first photo stop. This is also where you will find the restrooms.

Historical Poinsettia Display

Who knew there were so many types of poinsettias? Here you can see over twenty varieties. I always associate poinsettias with Christmas, but the yellow ones are also quite striking.

Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse

I have always admired orchids and anyone who is able to keep them blooming. The orchids on display in the greenhouse are truly magnificent.

Tractor Wagon Ride

Tickets for the Tractor Wagon Ride are $6 for adults and $3 for children. The ride around the fields includes an audio commentary of the history of The Flower Fields. We did not go on this ride, but it looked like fun. Click here for more information.

Sweet Pea Maze

We arrived a little too early in the season to full appreciate the Sweet Pea Maze in all its glory. However, it was still fun to walk the maze, and we did not even make it through the proper exit!

Right around the corner from the Sweet Pea Maze there are a couple of fun photo opps:

Ranunculus Fields

Of course, the spectacularly vast fields of ranunculi steal the show!

I have read that they expect the peak bloom period to be between mid-March and mid-April. While many of the beds were just starting to bloom while we were there last weekend, there were still more than plenty of flowers to admire!

There are so many great photo opportunities here. It seemed like everyone was doing mini photo shoots! Another tip would be to be careful of what shoes you wear. There is naturally a lot of dirt, so plan accordingly. Also, do not forget the sunscreen, as there is not much shade.

Purchase Tickets Today!

The Flower Fields are open from now until May 8, 2022. Advanced tickets must be purchased through The Flower Fields’ website before you arrive.