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Cherry blossoms tend to steal the spotlight this time of year—and deservedly so. But another pastel flower is worthy of our attention, too: the tulip. These colorful flowers are about to make their seasonal debut, emerging from bulbs deep underground that have survived the winter freeze.
One of the best spots to see these botanical marvels is at the West Side Community Garden, a hidden oasis of springtime splendor that is home to more than 10,000 tulips. The volunteer-run garden will host its 47th annual tulip festival from April 12–April 27. Best of all, the massive festival is free and open to all.
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Enter through a wrought iron gate on West 89th Street between Amsterdam and Columbus Avenues to find the secret garden, open daily from dawn 'til dusk. Inside, weave through paths packed with plants. How many exactly? Well, volunteers plant about 13,000 tulip bulbs every year!
You'll see tulips in every color and variety imaginable. Pink, yellow, red, purple and orange tulips—plus a few cool multi-color blooms—fill the garden's raised beds. As for varieties, see if you can spot the differences between parrots, darwins and triumphs—all different types of tulips.
Adding to the scene are pink cherry blossom petals dropping from the trees, the sweet smell of hyacinths in the air and the vibrant pop of color from azaleas.
Needless to say, it's all very Instagrammable, but try to take a meditative moment away from your phone to enjoy the seasonal wonder. The garden truly is a magical place, where birdsong replaces honking car horns and the frenetic energy of the city slows down for a bit. Bring a friend, bring a book, grab your journal and find a bench to relax while enjoying all the splendor.
If you want to help keep the garden beautiful year after year, you can make a donation here.