For a few weeks in the spring, a soft blanket of delicate pink and white blooms descends on the nation’s capital. Here are the best places to view the DC cherry blossoms.
Growing up in a military family meant moving around a lot, but it also meant that I had the unique opportunity to live in Washington DC three different times. Each stint in the city left me with unforgettable memories, from seeing Amelia Earhart’s plane at the Smithsonian to watching fireworks explode behind the Washington Monument on the 4th of July. But these memorable experiences pale in comparison to seeing the nation’s capital bathed in the delicate pink and white flowers of cherry blossoms.
If you are wondering where to see cherry blossoms in DC, keep reading. From the crowd-packed sidewalk encircling the Tidal Basin to quiet, hidden gems, I’ll share some of my favorite cherry blossom spots in DC.
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Have You Experienced the DC Cherry Blossoms?
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Tidal Basin
Carved from the Potomac River, the Tidal Basin, which connects several memorials and monuments, is a prime spot to admire DC cherry blossoms. With the water gently lapping at its edges and iconic monuments standing guard, the Basin offers a picturesque setting for the thousands of iconic cherry trees that burst into bloom. It’s a sight that draws visitors from around the globe, and for good reason. The reflection of the delicate pink and white blossoms in the water, with the Washington Monument in the backdrop, is truly a sight to behold.
Likely to Sell Out
Cherry Blossom Bike Tour in DC
- Guided, two-hour bike tour around the Tidal Basin and through East Potomac Park
- Reserve now and pay later
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
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East Potomac Park
Just south of the Tidal Basin, East Potomac Park is a cherry blossom haven. This park stretches along the Potomac, ending at Hains Point where the Potomac meets the Anacostia River. In East Potomac Park, you can avoid some of the largest cherry blossom crowds that congregate along the Tidal Basin — and the views are just as beautiful. The park is known for its Kwanzan cherry trees, which bloom a bit later than the Yoshinos at the Basin, offering a second wave of impressive views during cherry blossom season.
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West Potomac Park
Stretching north of the Tidal Basin toward the Lincoln Memorial, West Potomac Park is another beautiful, and less crowded, spot to view the beloved cherry trees in Washington, DC. In fact, the capital’s first cherry tree was planted by First Lady Helen Herron Taft in West Potomac Park in the early 1900s.
Stanton Park
Located just north of Capitol Hill, Stanton Park offers a quaint cherry blossom experience. It’s smaller and more intimate than along the Tidal Basin, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or quiet picnic under the blossoms. The park’s central statue of General Nathanael Greene becomes a focal point surrounded by the soft hues of beautiful cherry blossoms.
Cherry Blossom Bus Tour in DC
- Four-hour, climate-controlled bus tour
- See key landmarks and monuments, including the White House
- Reserve now and pay later
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
Buy Now
Dumbarton Oaks Garden
Tucked away in Georgetown, Cherry Hill at Dumbarton Oaks Garden is a must-visit spot when the DC cherry blossoms are blooming. With a mixture of cherry tree species, the slope at the bottom of the garden comes alive with color to announce the arrival of spring. And the surrounding gardens are a quiet, beautiful spot to enjoy the season.
Arlington National Cemetery
Although you can see it from the back side of the Lincoln Memorial, crossing the Potomac River to Arlington National Cemetery technically takes you into Northern Virginia. And, although this national cemetery is a place of solemn respect, the pink blossoms add a layer of beauty to this hallowed ground, making it a unique place to reflect and admire nature’s splendor.
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Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Northern Virginia and Southern Maryland
While the Capital City’s compact 60 square miles are packed with many spots to admire DC’s famous cherry blossoms, the beauty doesn’t stop at the city’s borders. Nestled between Virginia and Maryland, the capital’s floral festivities spill over into the surrounding areas. If you’re willing to venture just a bit outside the hustle and bustle of the city, you’ll discover additional spots to see these breathtaking signs of spring.
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Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
Traveling about 20 miles west from Arlington National Cemetery, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna, Virginia, is another great place to view cherry blossoms. The gardens offer a tranquil setting to enjoy the blossoms, with winding paths and picturesque ponds enhancing the experience.
Green Spring Gardens
Located in Alexandria, Virginia, Green Spring Gardens is a little smaller than some of the other locations on this list but no less charming. Part national historic site and part outdoor classroom, the 9.5-acre garden is well maintained, offering a variety of plant life, including beautiful cherry trees.
River Farm
You’ll find River Farm directly south of Washington, DC, along the west bank of the Potomac River. Once part of George Washington’s estate, this historical gem is a bit off the beaten path but well worth the visit. The gardens here are a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, with cherry trees adding to the site’s natural beauty.
Brookside Gardens
About a 30-minute drive north of Washington, DC, Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, Maryland, offers a peaceful escape with its own cherry blossom display. In addition to walking paths that wind under a pink canopy of cherry blossoms in the spring, the 50-acre garden also includes a variety of seasonal gardens and two conservatories for year-round enjoyment.
To View DC Cherry Blossoms
Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling to Washington to see the DC cherry blossoms. Whether you’re planning your first visit or seeking new ways to experience the blooms, gain additional insights for a memorable cherry blossom season below.
When is cherry blossom season in DC?
Cherry blossom season in DC typically occurs from mid-March to mid-April. Keep tabs on the trees and the peak bloom forecast at the National Park Service’s Bloom Watch.
When is peak cherry blossom season in DC?
The DC cherry blossoms are typically at their most vibrant and full bloom from mid-March to mid-April, with an average peak bloom date of April 4th. However, the timing can vary slightly each year depending on weather conditions.
When is the Cherry Blossom Festival in DC?
The Cherry Blossom Festival in DC is typically celebrated from mid-March to mid-April. Specific dates can vary each year based on the forecasted peak bloom.
How long do the cherry blossoms last in DC?
Cherry blossom blooms usually last 4 to 7 days after peak bloom. However, different cherry tree varieties bloom at different times throughout the spring. Along the Tidal Basin and at East Potomac Park, the National Park Service maintains a variety of cherry trees, including Yoshino, Kwanzan, Akebono, Fugenzo, and Shirofugen. The Kwanzan trees typically bloom about two weeks after the Yoshino.
How many cherry blossom trees are there in Washington DC?
According to the National Park Service, there are approximately 3,800 cherry trees surrounding the Tidal Basin and at East Potomac Park. Additionally, you’ll find thousands of cherry trees in other locations across the Washington, DC, metropolitan area.
Where to Stay in DC for Cherry Blossom Season
While you’ll find many great accommodations in DC, Hilton is the premier hotel provider of the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC. And, as such, many of its properties go all out during this beautiful time of year.
Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
The historic Waldorf Astoria Washington DC gets all decked out for cherry blossom season. Admire impressive cherry blossom decor in the lobby and check out their special cherry blossom season packages.
Conrad Washington DC
Located just east of Lafayette Square the Conrad Washington DC also has special cherry blossom offers. When you book two nights in a Sakura Club room, you’ll receive the third night free! Additionally, the Sakura Experience includes daily Japanese whiskey tastings.
Capital Hilton
Just steps from the White House, the Capital Hilton’scherry blossom package includes a bento box filled with delicious Japanese treats and a kite to fly on the National Mall.
What to Do in DC During Cherry Blossom Season
In addition to just slowing down and taking time to admire the cherry blossoms, you can:
- Enjoy a cherry blossom bike tour around the Tidal Basin and through East Potomac Park.
- Brush up on your tea etiquette and enjoy a special cherry blossom afternoon tea at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC, featuring themed decorations and a menu inspired by the season.
- Take a four-hour, climate-controlled cherry blossom bus tour to see key landmarks and monuments framed by cherry blossoms.
Have You Experienced the Beauty of Cherry Blossoms in DC?
Have you experienced spring in Washington, DC? What moments took your breath away? Do you have a secret viewing spot or a cherished memory made under the blossoms? Share your experiences, tips, and tricks in the comments below.
Looking for more information to plan your Washington DC vacation? Check out my additional recommendations to help you plan your trip to Washington, DC, including what to see and do in Washington DC, the best places to stay in Washington DC, where to eat in Washington DC, and more!
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Sage Scott
After growing up all over the United States and in Europe, Sage Scott writes her travel blog with a midlife traveler’s perspective from America’s Heartland.
