Spring returns in brilliant color at Longwood Gardens during Spring Blooms, on view March 27 through May 3. The season begins in late March with emerging blooms from hardy bulbs, crocus, and forsythia, followed by the arrival of soft pink cherry blossoms in early April.
By mid-April, more than 150,000 tulips and other spring bulbs are expected to reach peak bloom along the iconic 600-foot-long Flower Garden Walk (weather permitting). Throughout the season, flowering magnolias and dogwoods paint the landscape with spring pastels for a breathtaking seasonal display.
The season features extended hours to enjoy the beauty of spring on special “Tulip Tuesdays,” April 21, 28, and May 5, from 10 AM-6 PM, and extended evening hours until 9 PM on April 18, 19 ,24-26, and May 1-3.
Wander into Spring
In Longwood’s Meadow Garden, Eastern redbud, Carolina silverbell, and flowering dogwood bloom in harmony with nature. Elsewhere, guests can stroll past whimsical topiaries, climb grand treehouses, and wander serene woodlands as spring quietly emerges.
“Spring is one of the most beautiful and fleeting seasons at Longwood Gardens,” said Dan Sekowski, associate director of outdoor landscapes. “Our horticulturists are exploring creative ways to showcase bulbs and other spring blooms, from naturalizing species tulips across a sweeping lawn in the Idea Garden to vibrant layered displays of color and texture. Each area presents a different idea that changes as the season progresses.”
In the Idea Garden, innovative plantings offer fresh inspiration and beautiful backdrops for spring. Experimental combinations, a sweeping bulb lawn, and vibrant containers filled with flowering bulbs create a dynamic landscape that evolves throughout the season. In the Hydrangea Room garden a sea of alliums and daffodils (narcissus) are interrupted by clusters of dark-leaved ninebark, towering eremus, and snapdragons.
Adding to the seasonal experience, Longwood’s fountains return in the Open Air Theatre beginning April 18, followed by the Italian Water Garden on April 25. The Main Fountain Garden shows return May 8.
Spring Under Glass
Inside the Conservatories, spring unfolds in vibrant color and fragrance. In the West Conservatory, extraordinary plants captivate with bold forms, brilliant hues, and unexpected textures. Guests can see the striking variety of giant kangaroo-paws and the dramatic blooms of Tower-of-Jewels. Delicate South African bulbs, including Cape Cowslip add moments of botanical beauty. Colorful new additions to the West Conservatory this season include stock Matthiola (‘Katz Apricot’), Wart-stemmed Pincushion (‘Goldie’), and foxglove (‘Illumination Flame’).
Inside the East and Main Conservatories, springs’ classic fragrances fill the air as freesia and campanula bloom. Hanging baskets of honeybells perfume the space, while hydrangeas and foxgloves bring vibrant color to walkways and displays above. Timeless fuchsia varieties such as ‘Mrs. Marshall’ and ‘Traudchen Bonstedt’ grace walkways, while cascading baskets of ‘Lord Beaconsfield’ draw the eye upward.
Bonsai in Bloom
Outside of Longwood’s spectacular conservatories, spring unfolds. The Bonsai Courtyard displays a masterful selection of 50-60 deciduous trees leafing out in perfect scale and proportion alongside flowering cherry trees. From the end of March through April 27, a vibrant selection of blooming Kurume azalea bonsai will be on display.
Seasonal Flavors at 1906
After exploring the gardens, guests can extend the experience with seasonal dining at 1906, Longwood’s signature restaurant. At 1906, beautifully crafted dishes celebrate the flavors of the season using ingredients from Longwood’s Ornamental Kitchen Garden and local purveyors. Guests can enjoy an elegant lunch when the Gardens are open, along with spring dinner service during extended hours Friday through Sunday evenings beginning April 18.
Reservations are required and can be made at longwoodgardens.org/dine.
On Thursday, April 23, there will be a special Duckhorn Vineyards 50th Anniversary Wine Dinner. The experience begins with a cocktail reception of small bites and featured wines. Following special remarks and insights from P.J. Alviso, Vice President of Winegrowing at Duckhorn, the evening includes a beautifully curated four-course menu from Longwood’s culinary team that’s thoughtfully paired with exceptional wines from the Duckhorn portfolio.
Hours & Admission
The Gardens are open Wednesday-Monday from 10 AM to 6 PM from March 27 through April 17. From April 18 through May 7, the Gardens are open Monday through Thursday from 10 AM through 6 PM, and Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 AM to 9:00 PM.
Although typically closed on Tuesdays, the Gardens will be open on April 21, 28, and May 5 to allow guests additional opportunities to enjoy Spring Blooms. Timed admission tickets are required, and Members require timed reservations every day throughout Spring Blooms. Tickets and reservations are available at longwoodgardens.org.
_____
A walkthrough of Spring Blooms.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on VISTA.Today in March 2026.
