SKAGIT TULIP SURVIVAL GUIDE
The Skagit valley tulip fields are an amazing sight and one of the many photography opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. They are destination and visitors from all over the world come to see a display of springtime color. Once in full bloom, the fields are spectacular. This popularity does have a downside that creates tension and frustration for locals and tourists alike.
Here is a survival guide to make a day at the tulips more enjoyable.
https://www.tulips.com/bloommap
Weekdays
A weekday is more relaxed. There will be plenty of tourists, but not the weekend mob.
Morning or Evening
Go early or later. These are the best times to photograph anyways. The light is diffused and dramatic. A sunny day is great for walking through the fields with the family, but not so for photographs.
Traffic
The roads all around the fields are extremely congested. The freeway (I-5) even backs-up for 10 miles in both directions on the weekend. Check the traffic WSDOT app, plan an alternate route and bring a lot of patience.
Parking
The No Parking signs have gone up. Skagit County Sheriff’s Department loves to harass and give tickets. They are country cops. Do yourself a favor and park in designated lots and avoid giving a donation to Skagit County.
Driving
Never stop or slow down in the middle of the road. Keep the flow of traffic going. Locals will instantly lay on the horn, scream some very colorful words and give you some non-verbal communication to back it up. As a reminder – rednecks carry guns.
Tulip Fields
Every year, there is less and less to see. Tulips are a crop, fields rotate and many have no access. This is a great year to visit. Most will be happy with the display gardens at Tulip Town or Roozengaarde, but if you want a real field – there are plenty of roadside options.
Tulip Town display gardens
Rozzengaarde display gardens
La Conner
Tired of the tulips? Hang out in one of my favorite towns, La Conner. Plenty of shopping, restaurants and a couple wine. Have lunch at Nell Thorn and enjoy some wine tasting at two fantastic local wineries.
Feel free to give me a call, text or email if you need more information on visiting or to schedule a tulip field portrait session. Enjoy!
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Russell Chandler 