When spring time comes in the Netherlands it is tulip time. Keukenhof opens up to visitors in the spring and stays open during the spring months only. If you want to experience these magnificent gardens make sure you get there during tulip season. The Keukenhof gardens are exquisite. Millions of spring bulbs are planted all around the grounds. There are flower shows, and sculptures to see, too.
Come by car, bus, bicycle or motorcycle. There is free parking for buses and a fee for car parking. True to Dutch form, there are bicycle racks where you can park your bike. There is public transportation available to Keukenhof. Check out the local tulip fields on the way there--you won’t miss them. The sight of acres and acres of solid colors of tulips in full bloom is spectacular, like someone magically painted the vista in front of you and left it there for everyone to enjoy. These fields are the breeding grounds for many of the bulbs exported from The Netherlands to other countries.
Bring your dog if you like. Dogs are permitted to come into the park, though they must be on leashes. The park provides scoops and disposal bags for you free of charge to pick up any messes the dogs drop.
Take the children to see all the varieties of spring flowers. The children may also enjoy the playground, maze and a place to visit animals. If you get hungry, Keukenhof serves up food in its own restaurants, including some traditional Dutch fare.
Notice not only tulips, but many other spring blossoms in bloom. The settings and plantings in this garden park are inspiring and a feast to the eyes. If you are lucky and come on a nice spring day, bring your camera to capture some of the annual beauty in Keukenhof. The park smells like spring in bloom so the senses are flooded with the richness of the season wherever you walk in the park. Great love and care has been taken in the landscaping, planting and maintenance of this garden of spring wonders. Take your time enjoying the views. This isn’t something to rush through.
Take the guided tour if you prefer. You will get background and history from a tour guide. There is a fee for the guided tour and the group is limited to 20 people at a time.
Plan ahead, check the dates online and come during one of the special flower exhibitions in one of the four pavilions or attend the Lisse flower parade that travels 25 miles from Noordwijk to Haarlem and includes Lisse. See the floats covered in flowers, then come over to Keukenhof to experience the gardens afterward.
