So, you’re coming to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival — great decision! Let’s look at things to bring!
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned tulip trotter, being prepared is key. We’ve put together a list of nine must-haves to make sure your visit is smooth, fun and filled with nothing but good vibes (and a few thousand tulips).
1. Waterproof Boots or Old Shoes
Yes, the tulips are stunning, but Skagit Valley is a farming community, and those tulips are grown in fields and on farms. If it’s rained recently (which, let’s face it, is common), expect some muddy paths. Bring or wear waterproof boots or shoes you don’t mind getting a little messy.
Rainboots and puddle fun at Tulip Town
2. Layers, Layers, Layers
Spring in the Pacific Northwest is a grab bag of weather. One minute, you’re basking in the sun; the next, you’re questioning your life choices in a sudden drizzle. Bring a rain jacket, a light sweater and sunglasses — sometimes, you’ll need all three in the same hour.
3. A Camera or Fully Charged Phone
You didn’t come all this way to not take photos. If you have a real camera, bring it — these fields are dreamy through a good lens. If you’re using your phone, charge it beforehand, and maybe pack a portable battery (because taking 300 tulip selfies is a serious battery drain).
4. A Plan for Your Garden Visits (and Your Tickets!)
Five different gardens are part of the tulip festival. We recommend you decide beforehand whether you want to visit RoozenGaarde, Tulip Town, Garden Rosalyn, Tulip Valley Farms and/or Skagit Acres. Check our festival website for tickets and details, then map out a plan that makes sense for you.
Pro tip. Purchase your tickets ahead of time to save money and gain easier access inside the gardens.
5. A Picnic Blanket (and a Plan for Lunch)
Want to soak in the tulip views a little longer? Pack a picnic and enjoy your meal right in the gardens, or grab food on-site — all gardens offer tasty food and drink options.
Not in the mood to picnic? Skagit Valley has an incredible food scene, from cozy cafés to farm-to-table restaurants, so make time to explore the local flavors while you’re here!
6. A Backpack or Bag for Essentials
Between souvenirs, snacks and an extra layer, you’ll be carrying more than you think. A small backpack or bag keeps everything organized so you’re not juggling a jacket, a camera and a bouquet of fresh-cut tulips all at once.
7. A Sense of Adventure (and a Little Patience)
That perfect photo op at RoozenGaarde
This one’s free, but it’s crucial.
Weekends get busy, and parking lots fill up. You might have to wait for that perfect photo op. Take a deep breath, enjoy the scenery and remember — you’re surrounded by millions of blooming tulips. That’s worth a little wait, right?
Pro tip. Visit during the weekdays for less crowds!
8. Your Personal Festival Itinerary
Want to make the most of your day? Plan around our events calendar! Start the morning at one of the gardens (before midday crowds), and grab lunch in La Conner or Mount Vernon. Then, swing by an art show, the street fair or the Tulip Parade (depending on the weekend).
Wrap up the day with a sunset drive through the valley — because golden hour + tulips = magic.
9. An Open Mind (Because the Best Moments Aren’t Always Planned)
Maybe you’ll find the best chicken pot pie of your life. Maybe you’ll meet a local farmer with a great story. Or maybe you’ll take a wrong turn and end up at one of the most beautiful drivable viewpoints. However your day unfolds, soak it all in — this is what the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is all about.
Delicious chicken pot pie at Shawn O’Donnell’s
Pack Your Bags and Feel the Excitement
Now that you’re fully prepped, we hope you visit Skagit Valley soon!
Explore our festival map and guide to find your unique experience. Purchase your garden tickets today.🌷
