One of the most enchanting times to visit DC is during the Cherry Blossom Festival. These thousands of cherry trees, a gift of friendship from Japan in 1912 (although an earlier batch of 2,000 was sadly destroyed by insect infestation), splatter the cityscape in delicate pinks and whites.
For over a century, the cherry blossoms have become a living tapestry of history and a magnet for both locals and tourists who flock to savor their fleeting beauty. While there’s nothing quite like witnessing the blossoms in Japan, catching a glimpse here in DC is an unforgettable experience if you’re in town. Timing the peak bloom can be tricky if you’re not local, but if you are, make sure to visit some of the prime viewing spots.
You might not know that different varieties of cherry trees bloom at different times. One of my favorites is the weeping cherry trees, which can be found in East Potomac Park and the Tidal Basin. Here are some top spots to see the cherry blossoms around DC:
The Tidal Basin
This is probably the most iconic location to view the cherry blossoms, attracting thousands of visitors each spring. It’s easy to see why: the area offers some of the most picturesque views, perfect for photography with the Jefferson Memorial as a stunning backdrop. I love heading there early with my camera and tripod. If you plan to visit, go early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the biggest crowds. Parking is tough, but free weekend parking is available at the National Mall. It’s also a short walk from the Smithsonian or Metro Center stations.
East Potomac Park
Behind the Jefferson Memorial lies East Potomac Park, home to over 1,700 cherry trees. It’s a less crowded alternative to the Tidal Basin and offers a bit more privacy. Some of my favorite trees are here. Just continue past the Jefferson Memorial to find this beautiful park.
Near the Washington Monument
Over 300 cherry trees surround the Washington Monument area. This spot provides fantastic opportunities for photography, with the monument framing your shots beautifully. It’s an easily walkable location from the Smithsonian or Metro Center stations, and free weekend parking is usually available at the National Mall. Note that the Washington Monument is currently closed for renovations.
The National Mall
While not abundant, there are some cherry trees scattered throughout the National Mall. Many visitors rush to the Tidal Basin, so you might find these trees less crowded. You’ll find groups of trees and statues along the pathways between the Korean War Memorial and World War II Memorial. Access is easy via the Smithsonian Metro Station, and there’s parking available on weekends.
The National Arboretum
The National Arboretum is home to some of the earliest cherry trees to arrive in the U.S. Although less convenient in location, it remains a wonderful place to visit anytime. To get there, take the Metro to the Stadium Armory Station, then the B2 Metrobus to Bladensburg and Rand Streets. From there, it’s a two-block walk to the entrance at 24th & R Streets. There’s also an entrance on New York Ave.
Other Locations
Beyond the main hotspots, cherry trees adorn various parts of Washington, DC, and its suburbs, such as around the Lincoln Memorial and various streets. Suburban areas like Bethesda also showcase beautiful blossoms.
Festival
One of the best parts of being in DC during this time is the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The event is packed with activities, including a parade and programs by the National Park Service. There’s even a photography contest that you can enter online. For more details, check out the official festival website. The 2023 Cherry Blossom Festival runs from March 20 to April 14, 2024.
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