Archie MontroseRemember that viral tulip field photo that made the rounds online a few months ago? I couldn’t decide if it was a masterpiece painted by a skilled artist or a mind-blowing creation from an AI generator.
It was so unreal; it seemed like something out of a dream. Well, curiosity got the best of me, so I decided to embark on an adventure to find these vibrant blooms in Vancouver. You won’t believe how easy it was to locate them!
I discovered some incredibly breathtaking spots, from beautiful parks to hidden gardens. Stick around and keep scrolling because I’ll also share some tips on capturing that perfect shot!
1. The Harrison Tulip Festival
Media credit: harrisontulipfest
Website: https://harrisontulipfest.com/
Address: 5039 Lougheed Hwy., Agassiz, BC V0M 1A3
The Harrison Tulip Festival is a celebration of spring, and it’s been enchanting visitors since 2006. You won’t believe it, but over 10 million tulips, hyacinths, and double daffodils are spread across 35 acres of stunning farmland.
The whole place is breathtaking, especially with the mountains as a backdrop. What I loved most was that they’ve added a new 2.5-acre show garden for the 2024 season, and it’s a sight to behold.
The festival’s atmosphere is joyful and tranquil, perfect for families, couples, and anyone who appreciates nature’s beauty. The food trucks there offered some delicious local fare, which was a bonus!
Pro tip:
Arrive early to avoid crowds and experience the soft morning light that beautifully illuminates the tulips!
2. Botanica Tulip Festival
Media credit: botanicaflowerfestival
Website: http://www.botanicaflowerfestival.com/
Address: 41310 Royalwood Dr, Chilliwack, BC V2R 4J1
The Botanica Tulip Festival is an amazing celebration of spring with over 1.5 million tulips spread across 13 acres of beautiful farmland. I mean, can you imagine that many tulips in one place?
Originally, it was called the Chilliwack Tulip Festival, but now it’s this huge floral extravaganza with 59 unique varieties of tulips blooming every April.
They’ve got this U-Pick Pail experience, where you can pick and take home your favorite tulips. It’s like a personal connection to the land and the vibrant flowers.
But wait, there’s more! The grounds have pathways winding through the colorful fields, perfect for strolls or snapping some photos.
They even have a little playground for the kids and a Local Harvest Market nearby, where you can grab fresh produce and baked goods.
Pro tip:
Plan your trip on a weekday rather than the weekend. This not only allows for a more peaceful experience but also gives you better opportunities for photography without the crowds.
3. Abbotsford Tulip Festival
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Website: http://www.lakelandflowers.ca/
Address: 3663 Marion Rd, Abbotsford, BC V3G 2J6
Operating hours: 10 AM–9 PM
I also got to experience the Abbotsford Tulip Festival, which was absolutely stunning. Picture this: 28 acres of land filled with over 5 million tulips in more than 100 varieties.
The festival takes place from early April to early May, and it’s become a tradition.
One of my favorite things about the festival was the atmosphere. There were food trucks with delicious local bites and live music, and the fields were perfect for strolling and taking tons of beautiful photos.
The festival is perfect for anyone who loves nature or wants to create lasting memories. Families, couples, and photographers—everyone will find joy here. It’s a magical place to take a peaceful walk or engage in family-friendly activities.
Pro tip:
Consider arriving early in the morning, right when it opens. This not only allows you to avoid larger crowds but also allows you to capture stunning photographs with soft morning light illuminating the tulips beautifully.
4. Quarry Gardens in Queen Elizabeth Park
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Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/queen-elizabeth-park-what-to-see.aspx
Address: Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver, BC
Contact details: +16048737000
Operating hours: 6 AM–10 PM
The Quarry Gardens in Queen Elizabeth Park is at one of Vancouver’s highest points, so you get these breathtaking city views. The gardens are famous for their seasonal blooms, especially the tulips.
And let me tell you, it’s especially enjoyable during spring when the tulips are in full bloom, creating a colorful spectacle that attracts visitors from all over. The gardens are also home to a cascading waterfall and a tranquil stream.
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet moment by the waterfall or engaging in friendly conversation at Painters’ Corner, where local artists display their work, it’s the perfect spot for nature lovers, families, and couples seeking a romantic escape.
Pro tip:
Some great dining options, like Seasons in the Park, provide a scenic spot for meals overlooking the gardens. Nearby eateries like East is East offer delicious takeout that is perfect for picnicking on the grounds.
5. VanDusen Botanical Garden
Media credit: vandusengarden
Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/vandusen-botanical-garden.aspx
Address: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1
Contact details: +16042578463
Operating hours: 9 AM–5 PM
The VanDusen Botanical Garden is 55 acres of pure floral paradise. The place is a tulip lover’s dream, boasting over 30 varieties of tulips, plus daffodils and hyacinths in full bloom. The garden was established in 1970 to showcase plants from around the world.
Wandering around, you’ll find all sorts of amenities to make your visit even more enjoyable. The LEED Platinum-certified Visitor Centre has a fantastic gift shop with gardening supplies and unique souvenirs.
Plus, they offer self-guided tour pamphlets to help you navigate the vast grounds. You can’t miss the Elizabethan Hedge Maze – it’s like a playful adventure within the garden.
The vibe at VanDusen is so peaceful and welcoming. It’s the perfect spot for families, couples, or even solo travelers. The colorful blooms set the scene for leisurely walks and deep contemplation.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on exploring the enchanting hedge maze or relaxing by the serene waterlily pond. The garden-themed gift shop is perfect for picking up a unique souvenir!
6. Stanley Park
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Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park-seawall.aspx
Address: Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2
Contact details: +16048737000
Operating hours: 6 AM–10 PM
Stanley Park is an incredible urban oasis with lush greenery and stunning ocean views. The park is famous for its beautiful tulip displays in spring, and let me tell you, they are breathtaking.
I spent the day exploring the park and was blown away by the variety of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and alliums. The colors were just amazing! Over 100 varieties of flowers create this vibrant tapestry against the backdrop of nature.
One of my favorite spots was just outside the Stanley Park Pavilion and along the pathways leading to the Rose Garden. The flower beds were meticulously arranged, and it was the perfect place to stop and take some photos.
There are also so many amenities to enjoy at the park. I had a lovely meal with a view at the Stanley Park Pavilion, and then I rented a bike to explore the area. Cycling along the Seawall and admiring the tulip displays was just magical.
Pro tip:
While you’re in Stanley Park, take advantage of the nearby attractions! You can stroll along the scenic seawall, visit the Vancouver Aquarium, or explore the lush trails leading to the Rose Garden and the Ted and Mary Greig Rhododendron Garden.
