What to KnowThe Flower FieldsCarlsbadMarch 1-May 10Advance tickets are required$27 adult general; other ticketing tiers are available
WHEN YOU’RE TALKING FLOWERS, and a famous flower-packed attraction, and a flower-packed attraction that has become an annual must-visit for blossom buffs around Carlsbad and far, far beyond, you’re talking new growth, new life, new sights. True, The Flower Fields have been around for many vibrant years, making them a scenic staple of springtime near San Diego, but there is always a sense of newness to the highly visual spot. That’s because the millions (and millions) of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers that sprout over the rolling hillsides are all new each year, as are the sweet peas that fill the fragrant Sweet Pea Maze. But when a new structure arises at the destination, that feels like something especially fresh and different, and butterfly buffs will soon enter the newest addition to The Flower Fields: The new and sizable greenhouse housing the Butterfly Encounter.
Marcie GonzalezMarcie Gonzalez
The Flower Fields will be open from March 1 through Mother’s Day.
THE BUTTERFLY-BEAUTIFUL EXPERIENCE… is a fan favorite, and it is definitely returning for 2026, but it will flutter inside the newly constructed 1,000-square-foot space. It’s “an upgrade” for the flutter-flutter fun, and “hundreds of butterflies” will fill the airy enclosure, one that people are free to roam as they behold butterfly beauty. “Step inside and experience them up close, even hand-feed them, as exotic varieties like the Blue Morpho and Emperor Birdwing bring bursts of color to every corner” is the colorful call to action from The Flower Fields staff. You won’t have to wait long before admiring the butterflies’ debuting digs, or all of The Flower Fields if that’s your pleasure: The season begins March 1, and petals are already popping. If the upcoming patterns hew closely to previous years, peak bloom will arrive in mid- to late-April, but following the attraction’s social pages is always a good idea.