Best Places To See Cherry Blossoms In Washington D.C.
Last Updated on November 6, 2024 by Erin Donahue
Washington, DC is a city full of landmarks and monuments, but nothing is quite as breathtaking as seeing cherry blossoms at Tidal Basin during peak bloom. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to the city to witness the blooming of the cherry trees and experience the natural beauty that symbolizes our nation’s capital.
History of Cherry Blossoms in Washington D.C.
According to the National Park Service, the famous cherry trees were gifted to Washington, DC by Japan in 1912, and since then, the blooming of these trees has become a cherished tradition. As the city comes to life with an explosion of pale pink and white blossoms, it’s hard not to feel a sense of wonder and awe. This history is shared with New York City too.
How To Plan A Visit
The peak bloom date is determined when 70% of the Yoshino Cherry blossoms are open, and it usually falls between the last week of March and the first week of April. However, predicting the exact date of peak bloom can be challenging, as it is dependent on weather conditions. NPS horticulturists monitor the bud development and report the status of the blossoms every day on their social media channels. In both 2019 and 2023, I traveled to D.C. specifically for the cherry blossom, and was in town during peak bloom!
One of the things that make the cherry blossom season so special is the unpredictable length of time of the blooming period. The Yoshino trees typically bloom only for three to five days. The exact bloom date is heavily dependent on weather conditions. Cool, calm weather can extend the bloom, while a rainy, windy day can bring an abrupt end to the ephemeral blossoms. Unfortunately, a cold snap can prevent the trees from blooming at all, making it a true test of Mother Nature’s whims.
To make the most out of your visit to see the cherry blossoms, plan to spend a couple of days exploring the Tidal Basin and other parts of D.C. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, from picnicking under the trees to renting a paddle boat to see the blossoms from the water. The National Cherry Blossom Festival also takes place during this time, offering a variety of cultural events and activities.
Where To Stay In Washington D.C.
Since this is a high season to be in DC, staying in hotels and other accommodations can be pricey. This city in general is expensive, and as a travel content creator, one of the ways I try to offset my costs is to work with hotels providing them with assets in exchange for a stay. I was in talks to work with the Waldorf Astoria Washington D.C. but they were booked up, so we discussed working together at another point in time when it’s low season. While I was there, I gathered some content and enjoyed some fine dining anyway.
CitizenM Hotel
If you’re planning a trip to this vibrant city and looking for a place to stay that offers comfort, convenience, and style without breaking the bank, CitizenM Washington DC Capitol Hotel is a good option. I ended up staying here, paid out of pocket, and was pleasantly surprised with it.
Located within walking distance of all the major attractions, this affordable-luxury boutique hotel is the perfect base for your adventures in DC. CitizenM hotels have cleverly designed rooms that are identical, providing a consistent and efficient experience for all guests. With one XL bed to share, these rooms are perfect for couples or solo travelers who want to indulge in some much-needed relaxation after a long day of exploring the city.
One of the highlights of this hotel is the range of amenities it offers. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you’ll appreciate the fast Wifi, widescreen TV, and mood lights that set the perfect ambiance for a night in. The fluffy pillows and blackout blinds ensure a restful night’s sleep, so you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.
That’s not all – CitizenM offers unlimited coffee options all day if you spend $20 on the breakfast buffet in the morning. This is a great way to fuel up before hitting the sights or to take a break and recharge throughout the day.
In summary, CitizenM Washington DC Capitol Hotel is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a comfortable, stylish, and affordable stay in the heart of DC. With an unbeatable location, this hotel is the perfect choice for your next trip to the nation’s capital.
Best Photo Spots of Cherry Blossoms
When it comes to capturing the perfect photo of the cherry blossoms, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Avoiding crowds is almost impossible since this is one of the “high seasons”, but visiting early in the morning or late in the evening will have fewer crowds.
The blooming of the cherry trees around the Tidal Basin is a sight that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance, it’s no wonder that the cherry blossom season draws visitors from all over the world. So pack your camera, plan your trip, and get ready to experience the magic of Washington, DC in the spring!
Watch on YouTube
To keep up to date with everything I share, follow along on my social media and read up on what camera gear I use when I travel.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Pin this post!
