SCOTT TWP. – As spring approaches, local farms are gearing up to offer fresh and vibrant experiences for visitors, from colorful tulip fields to adorable baby animals. Both Lakeland Orchard & Cidery in Scott Township and Brown Hill Farms in Lemon Township are unveiling new seasonal attractions designed to captivate families and photographers alike.
Lakeland Orchard’s New Tulip Field and Baby Animal Days
At Lakeland Orchard & Cidery, a 4-acre tulip field will bloom this spring, offering a stunning backdrop against the mountainous landscape. The tulips, imported from the Netherlands, are expected to reach full bloom around the first weekend of May, lasting through Mother’s Day. Farm manager Julianne Roba shared that plans for the tulip field have been in development for several years.
“We’ve had this special spot at the orchard where we’ve previously grown strawberries and sunflowers, and now it’s home to our tulips,” Roba said. “It’s a beautiful location with a fantastic view over the mountains.”
To celebrate, Lakeland Orchard will host a Tulip Festival from May 3 to 18, with events scheduled for Thursdays through Sundays. The festival will feature a ride on the Lakeland Express train, offering visitors a unique view of the tulip fields. Guests can also create custom bouquets from precut tulips.
“The tulips are up and tracking for bloom right around the first weekend in May, and we’re hopeful they’ll last through Mother’s Day,” Roba said. “It’s always a thrill to see them start to bloom. I check on them every day.”
Additionally, Lakeland Orchard will introduce a variety of baby animals from May 3 to June 1. Among the new arrivals are two miniature donkeys, two miniature Scottish Highland cows, lambs, baby goats, chicks, ducks, sheep, and llamas.
“Spring is the season for babies, and people love to interact with the animals,” Roba said. “The baby ducks are particularly adorable, and of course, the miniature donkeys and cows will be a hit with visitors.”
As part of the spring festivities, Lakeland Orchard will also debut a new menu item: the carrot cake doughnut.
“I think my favorite part of the job is testing new doughnut flavors,” Roba said with a smile. “We’re always trying to find the best options for our customers.”
Brown Hill Farms’ Spring Blooms and New Attractions
Meanwhile, Brown Hill Farms is set to open its 5-acre tulip field in late April. A new 70-seat, accessible passenger train will transport guests to the fields, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the colorful blooms. Co-owner Michele Brown said the tulip festival is scheduled to begin April 26.
“This year, we’ve also added a 23-foot windmill with an observation deck, offering panoramic views of the Endless Mountains and our tulip fields,” Brown said.
For those looking for family-friendly fun, Brown Hill Farms will also feature several popular fall activities, including a corn pit, giant slide, trike track, and giant sandbox. Baby Highland cows and rabbits will also be part of the spring experience.
Brown Hill Farms is a photographer’s paradise, with picturesque backdrops throughout the property. This season, the farm is revamping several photo areas, including repainting old props to give them a fresh look.
“We have a large following of photographers, and we always try to keep things fresh with new backdrops,” Brown said. “It’s a priority for us to provide visitors with beautiful photo opportunities.”
Brown Hill Farms features around 60 varieties of tulips each year, with new varieties mixed in depending on availability.
“We typically keep three-quarters of the same varieties each year, but I also like to bring in new tulips from Holland to keep things exciting,” Brown explained.
The Joy of Spring
As temperatures begin to rise, both farm managers share a common sentiment: the arrival of spring is a welcome change after the long winter.
“We’re all ready for sunshine and color,” Brown said. “After such a long, cold winter, people are eager to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the tulip fields.”
Roba echoed that feeling: “Spring in Northeastern Pennsylvania is magical. After the gray winter, seeing something green for the first time really lifts the spirit.”
Both farms are excited to share the beauty of the season with visitors, providing opportunities for family fun, photography, and a deeper connection to the natural world. Whether it’s strolling through fields of vibrant tulips or interacting with new baby animals, these local farms offer the perfect way to welcome the warmer months ahead.
