I received tickets in exchange for this post. All opinions are my own. 

One of my favorite things to do in the Spring is visit The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. The 50 acres of rolling hillside tecolote ranunculus is just beautiful, it blooms for six to eight weeks out of the year (March to May), and it also overlooks the Pacific Ocean. This seasonal and popular attraction get visitors from all over the world. I think it can be enjoyed several different ways, and with different people, because it is great for all ages. It is family-friendly, handicapped-friendly, and I also saw couples and groups of friends. The last day is Mother’s Day and I thought – Wouldn’t it be great to take my mom here to honor her? Last year I went with my kids and my husband. They loved it, but this year I requested to go with my sisters and their daughters for my birthday. I wanted a bonding day with just the girls and a leisurely day to take spring pictures without the hassle of the men rushing us. My nieces are at that perfect age too, and what girl doesn’t love flowers! They had the best reactions. They were like, “Mommy look at all the pretty flowers!”

Attractions

• American Flag of Flowers
• Santa’s Playground
• The Artist Garden
• Carlsbad Mining Company
• Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse
• Antique Tractor Wagon Ride
• Historic Poinsettia Display
• Sweet Pea Maze
• Legacy of Color – A History of The Flower Fields

I recommend taking the antique tractor ride to scope out the area, and it also cuts down some of the walking. The area is huge! There are little cut-outs in the fields where you can stand for photos. They have security in golf carts yelling at people to stay out of the fields so they are pretty strict about that. The hardest part is deciding what color flowers you want behind you. Try them all! The tractor stops half-way so we can walk down to explore the area, but it also picks up passengers. The open wagon ride is handicapped accessible, and it includes an audio commentary which helps us understand the history. The wagon takes you along side of the American Flag of Flowers but it doesn’t stop, and you’ll get in trouble if you stand up while it’s moving. I do see people walking back and forth to it so it looks walk-able if you want photos of it.

 

Regretfully with the small children, we didn’t make it to all the attractions, but the kiddos did like visiting the various birds in the colorful Artist Gardens. They received scavenger hunt cards at the entrance, and the children enjoyed collected the stamps. If they get them all, they get a discount for the mining activity. The Sweat Pea Maze is fun and not too hard. I think the designer changes it up every year. Fun Fact: The children’s play zone, Santa’s Playground, includes whimsical playhouses and gigantic mushrooms from Santa’s Village in Lake Arrowhead from years ago.

What a wonderful day to spend with loved ones! I definitely enjoyed it this year for my birthday, and will try again every year. Bring hats for shade, wear sunblock, bring waters to stay hydrated, and be prepared to walk on dirt roads which can be dusty. The attraction exits into an Armstrong Garden Center if you feel like shopping. Parking can be discouraging but if you arrive early it shouldn’t be a problem. There is a second parking lot if you drive further in and there is also a second entrance in the back. For more detailed information about this attraction, please visit their website. They also have special events like after hour events, classes and workshops, a demonstration garden, school programs, group tours, music performances, and more!

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The Flower Fields

March 1 to May 13, 2018

9am – 6pm

at Carlsbad Ranch
5704 Paseo Del Norte
Carlsbad, CA 92008
760-431-0352
www.theflowerfields.com

The Flower Fields provides two free parking areas, restroom facilities and accessibility for people with disabilities. Admission is $16 for adults, $14 for seniors 60+, $8 for children 3–10 and free for children under the age of 3. Season passes and group tours are also available.

• Free parking.
• Restrooms.
• Picnic Areas
• Fresh Strawberries.
• Picture Taking Areas.
• Rose and Themed Gardens.
• Handicapped Accessible.
• Wedding Venue.
• Water Wise Farming.
• Demonstration Garden.
• Armstrong Garden Center.

New renovations and additions this season:

• Beautiful display gardens developed by the San Diego Master Gardeners
• New pathways at the acclaimed sweet pea maze
• Hands-on workshops featuring art, basket, and gardening classes in new greenhouses
• Inviting picnic area where visitors can bring their own food
• Breathtaking Mediterranean, Whimsical and Wedding gardens
• Newly-Renovated Paul Ecke Jr. Barn
• Antique Tractor Ride
• Beautiful new wedding space – breathtaking, Mediterranean, whimsical wedding gardens

Special Events

Family-friendly activities are available at The Flower Fields all season. Everything from Girl Scout Days, Art Workshops, Kids’ Days, Basket Weaving, Floral Arranging, After Hours, Arts & Crafts Weekends, Tea in the Garden, Mother’s Day, and more are scheduled this spring. For more information, check out the calendar of events page: http://www.theflowerfields.com/attractions-and-events/2018-%20calendar-of-events/

After-Hours Events

The Flower Fields is proud to announce the longest roster of exclusive after-hours events yet including:

• Evening in Full Bloom: This is an extraordinary opportunity to dine under the stars amidst a sea of blooming ranunculus flowers. Guests can take in the unparalleled beautify of one of SoCal’s most historic working flower farms and a breath-taking 360-degree view of a spectacular sunset.
• The Fashion, Flowers & Fido Show: Back again by popular demand, this dog-friendly event features a unique fashion show catered to those who enjoy designer brands, doggie dates, and the rush of the runway. The event supports Simon Youth Foundation, The Flower Fields Foundation, and Rancho Coastal Humane Society.