25 Fun Things to Do at the Carlsbad Flower Fields

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch is open for the 2025 season between March 1 and May 11 (Mother’s Day). Visitors can expect vibrant floral displays and a packed events calendar filled with activities for families, couples, and solo adventurers.

Whether you’re exploring the Sea of Sunflowers, navigating the Sweet Pea Maze, or marveling at the famed Tecolote Ranunculus spread across 55 acres, there’s no shortage of Instagram photos to take.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the iconic Carlsbad Flower Fields in North San Diego County.

Before You Go

You must purchase time and date-specific tickets in advance online because they are not for sale onsite. Advance tickets are on sale now even though it opens in March, so you can buy now and plan ahead. Season passes are also available and do not require reservations.

Please note that activities and events listed in the calendar may require an additional fee. Specific pricing details vary and are not included in the descriptions below.

Wear walking shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. Remember, the display areas are a working farm, and flowers grow in the dirt! Do not forget sunscreen and sunglasses.

25 Fun Things to Do at the Carlsbad Flower Fields

Mother Nature certainly puts on a show at what’s considered one of the most unique attractions in the United States. It is certainly one of the best things to do in Carlsbad in the spring!

1. Take Plenty of Photos

This is your opportunity to take the perfect holiday card, family, or social media photos against a backdrop of vivid natural colors in orange, yellow, pink, white, and red ranunculus flower rows and the Pacific Ocean in the distance.

Don’t be shy. You will see plenty of visitors doing the same thing (some with wardrobe changes). Leave your drones at home, as they are prohibited.

2. Tour Beautiful Ranunculus Flowers in an Antique Tractor Wagon

Every season, guests (especially kids) look forward to the Antique Tractor Wagon Tours, where you can ride through the fields in a towed wagon while listening to the history of this unique San Diego attraction.

You buy tractor wagon ride tickets when you arrive and can pay by credit/debit card only. Tickets cost $8 for adults and $4 for children 3-10 years old. Toddlers and babies under age 3 are free.

3. Explore the Glass in Flight Exhibit

Step into a world of wonder with Glass in Flight, a sculpture exhibit by Alex Heveri. See over two dozen vibrant, larger-than-life bird and insect sculptures crafted from glass and steel.

This is already included in the general admission ticket, so I really recommend that you don’t miss it.

4. Navigate the Sweet Pea Maze

Step into this living maze to see if you can find your way out. That is if you want to get out. The colorful sweet pea flowers also give off a lovely fragrance.

5. Check out the Greenhouse Poinsettia and Orchid Displays

Until the 1960s, this land was used by the Ecke family (who still owns the land) to grow their famous poinsettias. Long story short, they moved their operations to greenhouses, but Paul Ecke Jr. convinced his friend and local grower to plant his ranunculus flowers here. It was Paul Ecke Jr. who came up with the idea to open the ranch up for tourism to keep the location economically viable.

So, it only fits that a rather large greenhouse at The Flower Fields showcases rare and unusual poinsettias along with the history of this important Southern California site.

You can also walk through a greenhouse filled with blooming orchids. Admire an array of blooming cymbidium orchids in the serene Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse.

Snap a photo on one of the decorative orchid benches and you can also purchase orchids at the Armstrong Garden Center Gift Shop.

6. Admire the American Flag of Flowers

Every year, red, white, and blue petunias are planted on a hillside in the shape of the American Flag.

7. Let the Kids Play at Santa’s Playground

Do you remember Santa’s Village in Lake Arrowhead? Well, some whimsical playhouses and other displays now live at The Flower Fields.

The Flower Fields is already one of my favorite things to do in San Diego with kids and, of course, in Carlsbad with kids.

8. Participate in Yoga, Pilates, and Meditation Classes

Check the calendar of events, and you’ll find regular Flower Flow Yoga classes at The Flower Fields. It’s a one-hour hatha yoga class set against the spectacular and coordinated display

ys of the Giant Tecolote Ranunculus.

Connect with nature while staying active:

• Family Yoga: Gentle yoga you can enjoy with your little ones.
• Golden Hour Pilates: Strengthen your core at sunset.
• Sunset Savasana Yoga: Relax as you flow through poses.
• Morning Sculpt Yoga: Energize your morning surrounded by flowers
• Sunset Meditation and Sound Healing Workshop: Unwind with a sound healing and meditation journey overlooking The Flower Fields.

Tickets to the class include admission to the Flower Fields, and you need to take your own yoga mat. Class dates vary throughout the season, so head over to the calendar and book the time and date that works for you.

9. Wander Through the Artist Gardens and Aviaries

Be inspired by garden displays that mimic famous artworks. Don’t miss the aviaries, where chirping birds add a magical ambiance.

10. Improve Your Green Thumb at the Demonstration Garden

The Master Gardeners of San Diego County display ornamental and edible plants for visitors to browse and learn more about how to grow at home.

You’ll also walk away with a few garden design tips — I think it’s neat to see how experts pair companion plants together.

You can also join and show your creativity at these other fun workshops:

• Flower Crown Workshops: Make your own floral crown.
• Spring Succulent Workshop: Design a succulent arrangement in a moss-covered basket.
• Floral Mosaic Suncatcher Workshop: Craft a vibrant glass mosaic.

11. Take a Field Trip

I’m a huge advocate of taking advantage of the educational resources that our attractions offer.

Field trips for ages Pre-K to 2nd grades are available that cover topics like composting and gardening but include fun hands-on projects and art. And don’t forget that you can download age-appropriate activity sheets to complete at home.

12. Earn a Girl Scout Patch

Take your troop to The Flower Fields on one of four designated dates to learn about composting, gardening, and the environment, and even take a wagon ride.

What a fun way for Daisies and Brownies to earn a patch. Reservations are required.

13. Take Home Flowers and Plants

One of the most frequently asked questions is whether you can take flowers home. The answer is yes, thanks to the Armstrong Garden Center gift shop.

Pick up some cut ranunculus or take home some bulbs to grow at home in the ground or containers. You can also find plenty of other plants, flowers, pots, and tools for sale here.

14. Spend the Night

You have some choices regarding Carlsbad hotels near The Flower Fields. The two closest, located above the Carlsbad flower fields, are The Cassara Carlsbad and Grand Pacific Palisades. A shuttle will take guests to The Flower Fields (and beyond).

The Cassara Carlsbad is popular with families for its two-bedroom Karlsbad Suites. Grand Pacific Palisades are vacation rental condos with full kitchens and one to three bedrooms. Both share a kids’ water play and swimming pools.

15. Mine Your Own Gemstones

Thanks to the Carlsbad Mining Company, adults and kids can have a blast mining their very own gemstones using a water-based method called sluicing.

Tickets are $5 per guest, or $4 for kids with a completed activity passport.

16. Tour the Butterfly Garden

The Butterfly Garden features benches and statues surrounded by sprawling fields of blooming flowers. Dedicated to the butterflies that help the flowers grow, this spot is both an incredible photo op and a wonderful learning opportunity for kids.

17. Experience the Sea of Sunflowers

This year, you can tour the remarkable Sea of Sunflowers, a 5-acre patch filled with sunflowers of all shapes and sizes. Some stand as tall as 12 feet! Kids and grown-ups will both have an amazing time getting lost among the bright blooms.

This photo-worthy attraction is included with general admission.

18. Discover and Wonder in the Illusion Garden

The Illusion Garden is a fun, mind-bending activity that includes two new topiaries handcrafted by Jennifer Coborn, an artist known for her whimsical, imaginative designs.

19. Snap a Selfie at the Pothead Garden

Admire and photograph unique concrete busts overflowing with flowers and greenery. It’s definitely a sight to see and a great photo opp.

20. Choose From the Live Music Act Line Up

The 2025 live music calendar features a great lineup of various celebrated artists playing blues, jazz, rock n roll, soul, and funk.

Catch live performances by talented artists like Gainesville The Band, Cool Rush, and the Bayou Brothers. Dance or relax to the sounds of rock, funk, and Zydeco.

Choose your vibe in the events calendar.

21. Sip at Sunset With a Wine Tasting Treat

Enjoy a relaxing evening of wine and live music as the sun sets over the fields. Advanced Sommelier Lamar Engel of The Wine Militia will guide you through premium wine pairings with delicious bites, all set to live performances by Southern California artists.

From vibrant reds to refreshing whites, the wines are carefully selected to celebrate California’s top wine regions. This is a unique way to experience the beauty of the Flower Fields while enjoying great music and wine. Tickets cost $124.06.

22. Take Tea in the Garden

You can book a relaxing afternoon tea in a picturesque setting at the Flower Fields. Tea and food is served by The Grand Tea Room. Note that this is an adult-only event, and only children 11 and older are allowed. There are four seating times, so make sure you book ahead to secure your spot.

The Tea takes place on select Sundays in March and April, with tickets priced at $98. Admission to The Flower Fields is included in the ticket cost, making it a delightful way to enjoy this tranquil event in a picturesque setting.

23. Grab a Bite to Eat

Bring your appetite to the Flower Fields. Enjoy delicious snacks and drinks, including:

• Cotton Candy: Hand-spun daily.
• Pizza Trolley: Artisan pizzas and salads.
• Sweet Swirls Ice Cream: Soft-serve treats.
• Strawberry Shack: Famous strawberry shakes and Dole Whip.
• Kettle Kernels Popcorn: Fresh kettle corn.
• Lemonade Stand: Freshly squeezed lemonade.
• Taco Trolley: Build-your-own tacos, burritos, and bowls.

24. Celebrate Mother’s Day

On the last day of the season, honor moms with lively mariachi music and colorful performances by the Rancho Buena Vista High School Ballet Folklorico.

25. Host a Special Event at the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

With so much color and beauty, it’s no surprise that people choose to host weddings, corporate events, and celebrations year-round at Carlsbad Flower Fields.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large-scale function for up to 1,000 guests, these stunning spaces provide the perfect backdrop for any occasion.

Tickets and Passes Information, Parking, and Directions

When you purchase anytime tickets, you’ll be required to select a date and entrance time that will serve as your reservation.

You can also enjoy unlimited visits to Carlsbad Flower Fields during the 2025 season with no reservations required through season pass.

Prepare for Your Visit:

• Pack a camera and wear walking shoes suitable for farm roads and slopes.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat to stay protected while exploring.

Note: Pets, emotional support animals, drones, balloons, and bicycles are not allowed. Only certified service animals are allowed.

Address: 5704 Paseo Del Norte Carlsbad, CA 92008 (get directions)

Parking: It is free to park in the Carlsbad flower fields parking lot.

Final Thoughts

The Carlsbad Flower Fields is your ultimate spring escape—an annual burst of color and fun. It really is an unforgettable and unique experience set in the rolling hills overlooking the striking Carlsbad, California coastline.

From vibrant blooms to unique activities, this destination truly celebrates the area’s local heritage.

Grab your tickets or a Season Pass and make memories that’ll last long after the flowers fade. See you in the fields starting in early March and have fun!

*Photos are courtesy of The Flower Fields.