Planning a Visit to Tulip Valley Farms?

Tulip Valley Farms FAQs

These Frequently Asked Questions cover the most common questions about visiting the farm, including festival timing, tickets, U-Pick flowers, families and pets, parking, photography, and what makes Tulip Valley Farms unique. If you’re looking for details about a specific festival or experience, you’ll also find links to more focused FAQs throughout the site.

 

Experiencing the Tulip Festival FAQs

When is the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival?

Officially, the Tulip Festival is April 1-30 every year, but the timing of the bloom is completely up to Mother Nature. We do regular (if not daily) Bloom Reports from our field on our social media channels, so you can see what the bloom looks like in real time. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

When is peak tulip bloom?

Here’s the secret: there’s no such thing as peak bloom! Tulips are planted in early, mid, and late-blooming varieties, which means something is always blooming, but never all at once. No tulip farm or garden will have every variety in full bloom at the same time.

If Tulip Valley Farms is open, you can count on being surrounded by hundreds of thousands of blooming tulips. For visitors traveling from outside the region, mid-April is generally the safest window for seeing a wide range of color.

Can you walk through the tulip rows during the Tulip Festival?

Yes! Tulip Valley Farms is designed as a walk-through tulip experience, with wide, grass-rowed fields that allow visitors to safely walk through the rows and enjoy the blooms up close. Tulip Valley Farms is the only tulip farm in Skagit Valley that allows guests to walk through the rows during the Tulip Festival; other gardens are designed for viewing only.

Are the tulip farms good for kids?

Yes! Tulip Valley Farms is one of the most family friendly tulip farms in Skagit Valley. Kids can walk through the rows, enjoy hands-on activities like U-Pick tulips, and meet the Micro Mini Highland Cows. The layout is designed to feel open and approachable, making it easier for families to explore at their own pace.

Which tulip farms allow U-Pick?

Tulip Valley Farms is the only tulip farm in Skagit Valley that offers U-Pick tulips during the Tulip Festival. Guests can walk through the fields, choose their favorite blooms, and create their own bouquet directly from the rows, making it a hands-on way to enjoy the festival and take a piece of spring home.

Where can I get Tulip Festival tickets?

There is no single ticket for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Each tulip farm and garden is independently owned and operated, so tickets must be purchased directly from the location you plan to visit.

Most farms do not offer refunds, so be sure you are purchasing tickets for the correct venue and date before completing your order. Tulip Valley Farms tickets can be purchased through our online ticketing platform.

Can I see multiple gardens/farms in one day?

Yes, and many visitors do. Each tulip farm and garden has its own personality and experience. On sunny weekends, traffic can limit how many stops you can comfortably make. On weekdays, it is often possible to visit three to four locations in one day without feeling rushed.

Are dogs allowed at Tulip Valley Farms?

Yes! Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome at Tulip Valley Farms. The farm is designed for families, with wide walking areas and open space to explore, making it easy for kids and dogs to enjoy the visit together.  Learn more on our Kids & Dogs at the Tulip Festival page.

Is the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival family friendly?

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a wonderful way for families to get outside and enjoy spring in the valley. Some tulip farms are more kid-friendly than others. Tulip Valley Farms is intentionally designed with families in mind, offering grass rows that help reduce mud, U-Pick tulips, and the Micro Mini Highland Cows.

While you may not see uninterrupted carpets of color like at some locations, families often find the experience at Tulip Valley Farms more immersive, relaxed, and enjoyable for kids of all ages.

Are tulips available for picking every day?

U-Pick tulips are available daily while the fields are open. Which varieties are in full bloom can vary depending on weather and bloom timing. You can visit us on Instagram or Facebook for the daily bloom update to see what varieties are at their best during your visit window.

How many flowers are in a u-pick bouquet?

U-Pick and pre-picked bouquets include 10 stems. We provide a bucket to carry your flowers, but bouquets are limited to 10 stems rather than filling the bucket.

When is the best time to visit during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival?

The best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Weekdays are typically quieter and offer a more relaxed pace. Weekends bring a lively festival atmosphere but also more traffic. For visitors traveling from outside the area, mid-April usually offers the widest variety of blooms across the region.

Is there free parking at Tulip Valley Farms?

Yes. Tulip Valley Farms offers five acres of free on-site parking for visitors, making it easy to arrive, park safely, and enjoy time in the fields without worrying about parking logistics.

 

Celebrate the Daffodil Festival FAQs

When is the La Conner Daffodil Festival?

The La Conner Daffodil Festival officially runs from March 1 through March 31 each year. Bloom timing depends on weather and temperature, so we recommend checking our social media channels for regular field updates before planning your visit. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

When do the daffodils bloom in Skagit Valley?

Daffodils are temperature-driven and typically bloom throughout March. In some years, blooms can begin as early as February. Like tulips, daffodils are planted in early-, mid-, and late-blooming varieties, so different fields and varieties peak at different times. If you visit early in tulip season, you will often still find many daffodil varieties blooming as well.

Can you walk through the daffodil rows during the Daffodil Festival?

Yes! Tulip Valley Farms is designed as a walk-through daffodil experience, with wide, grass-rowed fields that allow visitors to safely walk through the rows and enjoy the blooms up close. Tulip Valley Farms is the only daffodil farm in Skagit Valley that allows guests to walk through the rows during the daffodil Festival; other gardens are designed for viewing only.

Can you walk through the daffodil fields in Skagit Valley? 

Most daffodil fields in Skagit Valley are viewed from the road and do not allow parking or field access. Tulip Valley Farms is the only location where visitors can safely park, walk through the daffodil rows, take photos, and experience the flowers up close during the La Conner Daffodil Festival.

Where can I park for the Daffodil Festival?

Tulip Valley Farms offers five acres of free on-site parking for festival visitors. Most commercial daffodil fields do not allow parking or field access, so visitors should enjoy those fields from the road only. In the town of La Conner, street parking and several public parking lots are available for festival events and activities.

Why is the Daffodil Festival experience different at Tulip Valley Farms?

Most daffodil fields in Skagit Valley are viewed from the road and do not allow parking or field access. Tulip Valley Farms is the only place during the La Conner Daffodil Festival where visitors can safely park, walk through the daffodil rows, take photos, and pick their own daffodils, creating a hands-on experience you can’t find elsewhere in the valley.

Where is the La Conner Daffodil Festival located?

The La Conner Daffodil Festival takes place throughout the Skagit Valley, with many daffodil fields located around the town of La Conner. Most of these fields are commercial production fields and are intended to be viewed from the road only. Tulip Valley Farms is the only location where visitors can safely park, enter the fields, and experience daffodils up close.

In addition to the fields, the town of La Conner hosts special Daffodil Festival events throughout March.

Where can I get Daffodil Festival tickets?

Tulip Valley Farms is the only ticketed daffodil farm experience during the La Conner Daffodil Festival. Most daffodil fields in Skagit Valley are commercial production fields that are viewed from the road and do not offer tickets or on-site access.

To walk through the daffodil fields, park safely on-site, and participate in U-Pick daffodils, visitors must purchase tickets directly from Tulip Valley Farms through our online ticketing platform. Tickets are specific to date and experience, so we recommend confirming your plans before completing your purchase.

What are the best ways to see the daffodil fields?

Many visitors enjoy driving through Skagit Valley to view daffodil fields from the road, as the fields are spread across a wide area. Cycling is another popular option for those looking for a slower-paced experience.

For visitors who want to step out of the car and experience daffodils up close, Tulip Valley Farms is the only place during the La Conner Daffodil Festival where you can walk through the fields, take photos, and pick your own daffodil bouquet.

Do I really need to put cut daffodils in a different vase from other flowers?

Yes. Daffodils release a natural sap from their stems that can shorten the life of other flowers in the same vase. For best results, keep daffodils in their own vase or condition them separately before mixing.

 

Tickets, Parking, and Getting Here

These FAQs cover the practical details that help your Tulip Festival visit go smoothly.

Where can I get Tulip Festival tickets? 

There is no single ticket for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Each tulip farm and garden is independently owned and operated, so tickets must be purchased directly from the location you plan to visit.

Most farms do not offer refunds, so be sure you are purchasing tickets for the correct venue and date before completing your order. Tulip Valley Farms tickets can be purchased through our online ticketing platform.

Can I see multiple gardens/farms in one day?

Yes, and many visitors do. Each tulip farm and garden has its own personality and experience. On sunny weekends, traffic can limit how many stops you can comfortably make. On weekdays, it is often possible to visit three to four locations in one day without feeling rushed.

Can I change the date of my Tulip Valley Farms visit? 

Yes, guests can adjust the date of their visit by logging into the ticketing platform. Instructions and additional information about adjusting your visit to Tulip Valley Farms is shown on your ticket. You can also email us at Tickets@tulipvalley.com.

Can I get a refund on my ticket?

Generally speaking, tickets are non-refundable. However, you can adjust the date of your visit by logging into the ticketing platform at least 24 hours in advance. We also recommend adding Purchase Protection at checkout, which allows for refunds in the case of qualifying unforeseen circumstances.

Is there free parking at Tulip Valley Farms?

Yes. Tulip Valley Farms offers five acres of free on-site parking for visitors, making it easy to arrive, park safely, and enjoy time in the fields without worrying about parking logistics.

Where can I stay near the Daffodil Festival and/or Tulip Festival? 

The town of La Conner offers charming, locally owned lodging and is the closest town to most festival fields. Burlington, Anacortes, and Mount Vernon also offer a variety of hotels, restaurants, and shopping options, all within a short drive of Tulip Valley Farms.

 

Families, Kids, and Pets

Tulip Valley Farms is designed to be welcoming for families, including kids and dogs.

Is the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival family friendly?

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a wonderful way for families to get outside and enjoy spring in the valley. Some tulip farms are more kid-friendly than others. Tulip Valley Farms is intentionally designed with families in mind, offering grass rows that help reduce mud, U-Pick tulips, and the Micro Mini Highland Cows.

While you may not see uninterrupted carpets of color like at some locations, families often find the experience at Tulip Valley Farms more immersive, relaxed, and enjoyable for kids of all ages.

Are dogs allowed at Tulip Valley Farms? 

Yes! Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome at Tulip Valley Farms. The farm is designed for families, with wide walking areas and open space to explore, making it easy for kids and dogs to enjoy the visit together. Learn more on our Kids & Dogs at the Tulip Festival page. 

 

Mini Highland Cow FAQs

Is it safe to feed tulip leaves to the cows? 

Yes! While tulip bulbs are toxic, tulip leaves are safe for the cows to eat. We have confirmed this multiple times with the owners of the cows and their veterinarian. Feeding is supervised and part of their regular care.

What breed are the cows?

They are micro mini Highland cows, a smaller variation of the traditional Highland cattle breed known for their long hair, gentle nature, and calm temperament.

Can I get in the pen with the cows?

For the safety of both guests and the cows, only Tulip Valley Farms staff are allowed inside the pen. Visitors are welcome to interact with the cows from outside the enclosure and enjoy them up close from designated viewing areas.

Do the cows like dogs? 

The cows are generally curious about dogs, but not all dogs are comfortable around the cows. Dogs must remain on leash at all times, and we ask owners to watch their dog’s behavior closely and give the cows space if needed.

Where can I learn more about the cows?

You can find additional information about micro mini Highland cows on Compact Cattle Co. website. They are the breeders of the cows visiting Tulip Valley Farms and offer detailed FAQs about care, behavior, and the breed.

 

Photography and Special Experiences

Tulip Valley Farms welcomes photographers and special moments, with a few guidelines in place.

Do you allow photographers? 

Yes. Photographers are welcome at Tulip Valley Farms. We love seeing the fields through your lens and appreciate photo tags or shared images when permission is given. Please review our Photographers Toolkit for guidelines, policies, and special access information.

Can I do a photoshoot of my car/horse in the tulip fields?

Yes. Vehicle and animal photo sessions may be allowed under specific guidelines. Please review our Photographers Toolkit for details, requirements, and advance approval information.

Does Tulip Valley Farms allow drones?

Drone use may be permitted under limited circumstances. Requests must be submitted at least 48 hours in advance by emailing Communications@TulipValley.com. Approval is required before any drone flight on the property.

 

U-Pick Tulips and Daffodils

What tools do I need for U-Pick?

No tools are required. Flowers can be picked by hand, and buckets are provided to carry your flowers while you pick. We ask guests not to use scissors or cutting tools in the fields.

What if a bulb comes out of the ground when I pick?

Occasionally, a bulb may come out with the stem. If this happens, you can remove the bulb at the wrapping station, and staff will dispose of it for you. Bulbs pulled while blooming will not rebloom, as they have not had time to recharge in the ground.

How many flowers are included in a U-Pick bouquet?

Each U-Pick bouquet includes 10 stems. Buckets are provided for carrying flowers while you pick, but bouquets are limited to the number of stems purchased and are not “fill the bucket.”

Can I purchase more than one U-Pick bouquet?

Yes. Additional U-Pick bouquets can be added during online checkout at the online price. On the farm, you will receive one bucket for each bouquet purchased, indicating the number of bouquets paid for.

Do you offer pre-picked bouquets?

Yes. Pre-picked bouquets are available for purchase and vary in price based on flower variety and arrangement. Some bouquets are available near the front gate and can be purchased without festival admission.

Is U-Pick included with admission?

U-Pick is offered as an optional add-on to festival admission and can be purchased online in advance or on site, subject to availability.

 

General Tulip Valley Farms Questions

What makes Tulip Valley Farms different from other tulip farms?

Tulip Valley Farms is designed as a walk-through tulip experience. Unlike many traditional tulip farms that are intended for viewing only, guests are encouraged to walk through the rows, experience the flowers up close, and explore the fields at their own pace.

How big is Tulip Valley Farms?

Tulip Valley Farms spans 15 acres of tulip fields, featuring 130 flower varieties, including more than 100 tulip varieties. The farm is intentionally designed with wide, walkable rows and open space, allowing guests to explore the fields comfortably and experience a diverse range of colors and blooms throughout the season.

Are dogs allowed at Tulip Valley Farms?

Yes! Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome at Tulip Valley Farms. The farm is designed for families, with wide walking areas and open space to explore, making it easy for kids and dogs to enjoy the visit together. Learn more on our Kids & Dogs at the Tulip Festival page. 

Can I change the date of my visit?

Yes, guests can adjust the date of their visit by logging into the ticketing platform. Instructions and additional information about adjusting your visit to Tulip Valley Farms is shown on your ticket. You can also email us at Tickets@tulipvalley.com.

Can I get a refund on my ticket?

Generally speaking, tickets are non-refundable. However, you can adjust the date of your visit by logging into the ticketing platform at least 24 hours in advance. We also recommend adding Purchase Protection at checkout, which allows for refunds in the case of qualifying unforeseen circumstances.

When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

Weekdays are typically quieter and offer a more relaxed experience. Weekends are busier, especially during peak bloom. That said, Tulip Valley Farms is intentionally designed with wide rows and open space, so the fields rarely feel crowded.

What should I pack or wear to visit during the festivals? 

We recommend dressing in layers and keeping a waterproof jacket handy. Spring weather in the Pacific Northwest can change quickly, and the fields are often cooler and windier than nearby towns. Umbrellas are helpful on rainy days, though they may be best left in the car if it’s windy.

Do you allow photographers?

Yes. Photographers are welcome at Tulip Valley Farms. We love seeing the fields through your lens and appreciate photo tags or shared images when permission is given. Please review our Photographers Toolkit for guidelines, policies, and special access information.

Can I do a photoshoot of my car/horse in the tulip fields?

Yes. Vehicle and animal photo sessions may be allowed under specific guidelines. Please review our Photographers Toolkit for details, requirements, and advance approval information.

Does Tulip Valley Farms allow drones?

Drone use may be permitted under limited circumstances. Requests must be submitted at least 48 hours in advance by emailing Communications@TulipValley.com. Approval is required before any drone flight on the property.

Where can I stay near the Daffodil Festival and/or Tulip Festival?

The town of La Conner offers charming, locally owned lodging and is the closest town to most festival fields. Burlington, Anacortes, and Mount Vernon also offer a variety of hotels, restaurants, and shopping options, all within a short drive of Tulip Valley Farms.