With Burnside Farm’s Festival of Spring in full swing, there are fields filled with millions of tulips and daffodils within driving distance of Washington, D.C., seeing the flowers is on almost everyone’s list of things to do around Washington, D.C. during April. Fortunately, Washingtonians who can’t just pack up their car and go, don’t have to miss out on any of the seasonal fun!
Where to see tulips near Washington, D.C.
There are two places to find tulips that are less than a day-trip away from capital city!
The Netherlands Carillon in Arlington
If you’re unfamiliar with the Netherlands Carillon, it’s a monument of sorts that the Dutch government dedicated to the United States as a symbol of freedom and friendship between the people of the Netherlands and the United States. It is located in Arlington, just across the Potomac, near the Arlington National Cemetary.
The Carillon grounds are open all year from 6 am until midnight, offering an incredible view of Washington, D.C. that you may not have experienced before! It also is filled with sloped grassy areas and a several large trees, making it the ideal area for outdoor picnics during the sunny days of Spring (if it ever stops raining).
The Navy – Merchant Marine Memorial on Columbia Island
Still considered inside Washington, D.C., the Navy – Merchant Marine Memorial, located in Lady Bird Johnson Park on Columbia Island is surrounded by some breathtaking tulips that make the view of D.C. from across the Potomac River unforgettable! The memorial is surrounded by iconic and beautiful red tulip flowers that bloom every spring, turning this often-overlooked memorial into one of the most beautiful spots in the entire city.
If you’re an aspiring photographer you cannot go wrong visiting either location, both offer incredible and unique views but these beautiful tulip blooms are only going to stick around for a limited time only.