Weren’t we all moseying through tulip fields, angling our cellphone cameras to crop out the other people who were snapping cute Instagram selfies, like, two weeks ago?
Reality check: all of those pretty spring flowers wilted months ago and are mouldering in compost piles. Yards have turned varying shades of yellow. Some trees are casting off their leaves with reckless abandon.
If you aren’t ready to embrace the season of pumpkin spice and dying plants, head to Swan Island Dahlias for a reminder that one flower is still living its best life.
Billed as “the largest and leading dahlia grower in the United States,” Swan Island Dahlias opens its farm to the public every August and September for the free Annual Dahlia Festival. Visitors are invited to stroll through nearly 40 acres of blooming dahlias representing 370+ varieties, from massive dinnerplate types to exquisite miniatures with tightly rolled petals.
Save time to visit the gift shop and grab a bite to eat before you leave.