The Tulip Library

Spectacular blooms in an easily accessible location, near so many other, better-​known attractions.

Small and fleeting, but when it is in full bloom it is quite beautiful.

Absolutely gorgeous. We were in DC for the cherry blossoms but missed their peak by a few days. We stumbled upon the tulips and though only about a third of the beds were in bloom, what we saw was amazing. The beds are carefully tended and the paths between them wide enough to manuever, even when crowded. There were some color and petal shapes I never knew existed. Truly something to be seen for those (like me) who can’t make it out to Holland.

I visited the Tulip Library on a Sunday afternoon in mid-​April. While a couple of beds were already past bloom, the majority (20 or so) were still in full flower. Imagine little patches of tulips in every color: red, yellow, pink, purple, and even black. You can walk, meander, or even tiptoe through them. And since the library’s hidden away on a little slice of land near the Tidal Basin, it’s rarely crowded.

From early April to the first week of May, you can find nearly 100 varieties of tulips at the Tulip Library.
My friends and I stumbled upon this little slice of photography heaven when taking a quick tour of the memorials in mid-​April. I had no idea such a place existed but good gracious I’m glad to have found it! Perfect for walking through or taking pictures and nearby are picnic tables and space for blankets to just relax.
According to the map/​flyer I picked up, the library was created in 1969. The bulbs are flown in from Holland (about 10,000) and are hand-​planted so it’s important not to touch them.
Once the cherry blossoms have bloomed and the trees are bare, not to fret! The Tulip Library will be in full bloom, ready for you to enjoy!