I have to say: I always dreamed about visiting the tulip fields in Holland. This dream almost came true two years ago, when we were in Amsterdam and we visited Keukenhof Park, the famous tulip park in Lisse, about 45 minutes drive from Amsterdam. But, at that time, unfortunately, we were unable to see the tulip fields that surround the area. And trust me – Keukenhof is beautiful but is a park, it is different from a field. Fortunately, I found out about Holland Ridge Farms, a farm located in Cream Ridge, New Jersey, that was open to the public in April 2018. When I first heard about the farm, in 2019, it was too late. I promised myself I would go there in 2020. Well, we all know what happened, right? So, I could only go this year. And it was so worth it!
The Farm
The Jansen family roots run deep in Holland where they started growing tulips over 100 years ago. At the head of the family is Casey Sr, who immigrated to the United States in 1964 when he was just 17 years old and founded Holland Greenhouses Inc. Sr learned Dutch-tulip bulb techniques from his father and incorporated everything he was taught into growing tulips in New Jersey. With over 50 years of tulip growing experience under his belt, Sr spearheaded the idea of creating a u-pick tulip season for the public to enjoy. While scouting land for a brand-new greenhouse, Sr and his son Casey Jr discovered 153 acres of preserved farmland with nutrient-rich soil, perfect for growing flowers. In the Fall of 2017, they planted more than 1 million tulip bulbs in preparation for the first u-pick tulip season. In April 2018 the farm finally opened the gates to the public and, since then, the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
Holland Ridge Farms is located off Interstate 195 in Cream Ridge, NJ between New York City and Philadelphia. Since there is no public transportation near the farm, it is only accessible by car and there is a huge parking lot available. Driving from Midtown Manhattan, you will spend about 1h30min to get there without traffic.
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When to visit
When we talk about flowers, we need to follow mother nature flow… The tulip season happens in April – it usually starts after the first half of the month and I highly recommend that you follow the farm on Instagram and subscribe to the newsletter to get updates about the exact dates. Also, don’t think you will have plenty of time to visit it: the season lasts 2-3 weeks only! This year, the opening day was April 13th. Tickets are $12.80 (Adult 13 – 61), $10,66 (Senior 62+ & Military) and $8,53 (Child 3 – 12). Kids under 3 are free. Remember that the ticket does not include flowers. These are an additional $1 per stem.
What to expect
Honestly, I was impressed and it exceeded my expectations. IT IS HUGE! Millions of bulbs, rows, and rows of colorful tulips as far as the eye can see. With over 60 acres of flowers, it is the largest on the East Coast! Also, some elements that make you feel like you are in Holland, like a big traditional Dutch wooden shoe and classic Dutch bikes, the perfect photo props. Trust me, you will have a lot of fun walking around and exploring different angles to take your pictures. Honestly, if you live in the area, please don’t hesitate and visit, it is beautiful and unique!
It is good to highlight that the farm features bathrooms, food trucks, some picnic tables, and a bakery, so you can spend a pleasant time while you are there. The farm also offers free hayrides around the area. For the kids, on weekends only, there are pony rides and a petting zoo.
Address: 86 Rues Rd, Cream Ridge, NJ 08514.
Check the video below to have an idea of the farm’s size:
Final tips:
- Holland Ridge Farms also promotes a sunflower season, in September!
- I just found out that there is a Tulip Farm in Long Island: @waterdrinkerlongisland
Content creator and journalist in New York City. Here, I share lifestyle, beauty, NYC tips, thoughts, and the struggles about living in the most amazing city in the world! I’m not gonna pretend to be another person: I’m a Brazilian immigrant and I think this is my soul, it is part of who I am. I hope you enjoy my content! Follow me on Instagram!
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