Springtime is my favorite time of year in Washington DC! If you follow me on Instagram you’ll know why. It’s because this is when the cherry blossoms in DC bloom and turn the city into a sea of blush!
(My blue dress is sold out but similar here, here, and here.)
Cherry blossoms in DC brings over 1.5 million visitors to the city each year! Additionally, The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington DC hosts a ton of fun events around the city during this time to truly celebrate the blooming of the cherry blossoms in DC.
Keep reading for all the best events in Washington DC during the Cherry Blossom Festival, when the best time to see cherry blossoms in DC is, where to stay, and how to avoid all the crowds!
PEAK BLOOM PREDICTIONS 2026
NPS: March 29 1 April 1, 2026
Washington Post: April 3 – 7, 2026
NBC StormTeam4: March 30 – April 5, 2026
CHERRY BLOSSOM PEAK BLOOM UPDATE: March 26, 2026 – The cherry blossoms have reached peak bloom! The 80 degree weather we had today pushed them past stage 5. This afternoon will be extremely busy. We are expecting rain on Friday, March 27, 2026, so it won’t be as busy, but that means it will push many people to visit on Saturday, March 28, 2026. I predict March 28 and 29 to be EXTREMELY CROWDED, so be prepared. Last year, when peak bloom landed near the weekend, it was impossible to find parking because they closed East Potomac Park to vehicle traffic in the morning. Plus the crowds were just insane because the Kite Festival was taking place the same day. I think they may close it again because the Kite Festival is this weekend, and they usually use East Potomac Park as a staging area.
Best Place to See the Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC 2026
What is the best place to see cherry blossoms in Washington DC?
The best place to see cherry blossoms in DC is the Tidal Basin.
The Tidal Basin cherry blossoms are the one’s you always see on Instagram!
While the Tidal Basin might be where tourist flock to see the cherry blossoms, there are quite a few other spots without the crowds, such as Kenwood Maryland, East Potomac Park, and the National Arboretum.
Tidal Basin Seawall Reconstruction
If you didn’t know the National Park Service (NPS) took on a huge project starting in 2024 to reconstruct the Tidal Basin seawall. This is a much-needed rehab project as the Tidal Basin has become prone to flooding in recent years.
This $113 million, three-year project to repair the Tidal Basin and West Potomac Park seawalls is funded by the Great American Outdoors Act, this effort will address sinking seawalls and rising sea levels, protecting historic landmarks and cherry trees. Around 300 trees will be removed, with 455 to be replanted. The project includes rebuilding the seawalls, improving drainage, and enhancing walkways, aiming for completion by 2027.
For the 2026 cherry blossom season, this means the Tidal Basin may not look like any of the pictures you have seen.
As of December 10, 2025, the National Park Service announced the early completion of the Tidal Basin seawall reconstruction, a major step in protecting some of the nation’s most recognizable memorials and landscapes.
Funded by the Great American Outdoors Act and supporting the executive order on Making the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful, the work strengthens the shoreline around the Jefferson Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and the world-famous cherry blossom trees. It is the first of two phases, with the Potomac River seawall scheduled for completion in May 2026. Together, the projects are on track to finish eight months ahead of schedule and about $30 million under budget.
The project addressed decades of sinking ground, frequent tidal flooding and aging infrastructure along the south side of the Tidal Basin. In some places, the original seawall, built in the late 1800s and early 1900s, had settled more than five feet, causing daily flooding on walkways and repeated damage to trees and historic landscapes.
In spring 2026, the National Park Service will plant 426 trees, including 269 cherry trees, around the Tidal Basin and along the Potomac River work areas, replacing the 306 trees removed for construction.
To protect these young trees and allow the landscape to stabilize, the project area in the Tidal Basin and West Potomac Park will remain closed through the 2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival, with reopening expected shortly afterward. If you are visiting DC for cherry blossoms in 2026 do not expect to have access to this area as it is solidly fenced off.
The construction is mostly in the southern corner of the Tidal Basin as I’ve highlighted in magenta in the the map below.
Cherry Blossoms DC 2026: When is Peak Bloom for the Cherry Blossoms
When is the best time to see Washington DC’s cherry blossoms? When is peak bloom for the Tidal Basin cherry blossoms in Washington DC?
Average Peak Bloom
The average peak bloom is sometime between late March and early April.
The peak bloom period is definitely the best time to see the cherry blossoms in Washington DC. And peak bloom doesn’t necessarily coincide with the Washington DC Cherry Blossom Festival which is planned well in advance of peak bloom dates.
Not all the trees around the Tidal Basin bloom at the same time; some bloom early, and some bloom late. During peak bloom, about 70% of the frees are in full bloom. However, as time passes, the early blooms fade, while later-blooming trees become fuller.
The peak bloom period is completely weather-dependent, and the last few years of spring have been crazy in this area. It’s cold one minute and hot the next!
A few years ago, we had two weeks of almost 80-degree weather in February, followed by a huge freeze, which caused all the magnolias to bloom and then die! If you plan a trip here just to see the cherry blossoms, I would make a backup plan.
Looking back on all the years I’ve photographed cherry blossoms, the average peak bloom period is from March 29th to April 4th. In 2024 however, the cherry blossoms peak bloom blew everyone’s predictions out of the water, reaching peak bloom on March 17th.
Peak Bloom Forecast and Predictions
The National Park Service and the Washington Post Capital Weather Gang usually announce their peak bloom predictions late February to early March.
Peak bloom as not been announced yet for 2026!
Peak bloom forecasts for 2025 are announced as follows:
The Washington Post predicts the cherry blossoms will peak bloom between March 23 and 27.
Storm Team4 Meteorology predicts that peak bloom will fall between March 28 and April 3.
NPS will announce their pedictions on February 27th!
I usually follow the NPS’s predictions and the Capital Weather Gang’s predictions very closely, checking on a daily basis when it gets close to peak bloom time for the cherry blossoms!
Here’s a quick chart from the NPS on peak bloom dates from past years so you can get an idea of what the timing looks like.
Do the peak predictions change?
YES, they do! The National Park Service will change its predictions based on the progress of the trees.
One year the NPS announced a change the day before the trees went into peak bloom because we had an unusual spell of warm weather.
How accurate are peak bloom forecasts?
Based on my experience, the first predictions are usually not super accurate.
They are usually about a week off. It’s really hard to predict peak bloom more than about 10 days out because the weather could change drastically.
How Long do Cherry Blossoms Last?
Average peak bloom can last 1-2 weeks depending on the weather here’s what they look like on the first day of peak bloom April 5, 2018, on the left and on the right is almost a week later:
Cherry Blossom Watch is a great site for getting daily updates once the trees start to bloom. You can see the daily conditions of the trees and how far along they are blooming. Check it out here.
History of the Cherry Blossoms In Washington DC
Japan gifted over 3,000 cherry blossom trees to the United States in a show of friendship in 1912. The gift included 12 varieties of cherry blossom trees from Japan but Yoshino was the dominant variety.
The first gift of 2,000 trees actually had to be burned because they were diseased and bug-infested, but undeterred Japan gifted another 3,020 trees which were successfully planted.
Today, there are over 4,000 cherry blossom trees around the Tidal Basin and in West and East Potomac Parks, on the Washington Monument grounds, and in several other park locations, but less than 100 of them are the original trees gifted from Japan. Most tourist flock to the Tidal Basin cherry blossoms in spring!
Where to Stay in Washington DC
Washington DC is actually quite a large city and the yoshino cherry blossoms mostly bloom in one specific area, the Tidal Basin.
If you are here for the National Cherry Blossom Festival then you will want to stay near the Tidal Basin or stay near a Metro Station that directly goes to the Smithsonian Station without having to switch trains.
Penn Quarter
If you are here solely for cherry blossoms you will want to stay near the Tidal Basin. Penn Quarter is a great area right next to the White House.
Hotels in this area will put you near the Blue, Silver, and Orange lines on the DC Metro which take you to the Smithsonian Metro Stop, the closest Metro Station to the Cherry Blossoms on the Tidal Basin
Willard InterContinental
The Willard – Check Prices is just 2 blocks from the White House on Pennsylvania Avenue and blends historic charm with unrivaled hospitality. The guest rooms are lavish with plush amenities.
Steeped in Washington DC history, Captain John Tayloe built it as a row house in 1816, then leased it as a hotel to Joshua Tennyson. The hotels name and operator changed numerous times over the past 30 years. For more on The Willard’s history click here.
I’ve personally stayed at The Willard in Washington DC twice for New Year’s Eve, and both times the hotel showed us a perfect stay! I highly recommend this iconic hotel if you are in Washington DC for Cherry Blossoms.
It is about a 20 minute (1 mile) walk from the Tidal Basin, but it’s a scenic walk through the National Mall where you will pass the Washington Monument.
We have stayed in the Oval Suite – Check Prices and the Executive Suite – Check Prices. If you want a true lux experience, I’d go with the Oval Suite.
You will have stunning views of the Washington Monument and an actual oval living room area that makes you feel like you are in the White House.
Or if you prefer, you can hop on the Metro at the Federal Triangle Station and ride the train down to the Smithsonian Stop.
The Willard is also just around the corner from POV on top of the W Hotel, which is a fun roof top bar in Washington DC.
Astro Doughnuts is just two blocks away and has some of the best doughnuts in the area, plus they usually have special cherry blossom doughnuts that are totally Instagram-worthy as well as delicious.
W Hotel Washington DC
The W Hotel in Washington DC – Check Prices is hip and swanky!
Like most W Hotels the one in Washington DC boasts modern design and posh amenities.
With over 3,000 reviews and 4.5 stars on Google, this hotel is home to POV, the super popular rooftop bar that boasts views of the White House.
The Wharf
The recently redeveloped Wharf area is just under a mile from the Tidal Basin and a budget friendly area to stay in Washington DC. The Wharf has plenty of amazing restaurants, and great sunset views over the water.
Plus it’s the location of the Petalpalooza! There’s 3 hotels right on the waterfront and they all have over 4 star reviews on Google:
Hyatt House Washington DC – Check Prices
Canopy by Hilton – Check Prices
InterContinenal Washington DC the Wharf – Check Prices
The closest Metro stop to the Wharf area is L’Enfant Plaza Metro. Though if you plan on visiting the National Mall, during your stay it’s easier just to walk.
Rosslyn / Arlington
If you are on a budget the Rosslyn and Arlington area in Virginia are great options for your stay in Washington DC.
This area of Virginia is just across the Potomac River from Washington DC and boasts many affordable hotels.
I would stay in a hotel that’s walking distance the Rosslyn Metro Station unless you plan on renting a car, which I do not recommend if you are here to see cherry blossoms.
The Rosslyn Metro Station is on the Blue, Silver and Orange Lines which will take you directly to the Smithsonian Metro Station (closest Metro Station to the Tidal Basin) without changing lines.
Hotels Walking Distance from the Rosslyn Metro Stop:
Hyatt Centric Arlington – Check Prices
Just 1 block from the Rosslyn Metro Station and has over 4 stars on Google. This is the closest hotel to the Rosslyn Metro.
Le Meridien Arlington – Check Pricees
A 2 minute walk from the Rosslyn Metro Station over 4 stars on Google.
Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington – Check Prices
This hotel is a 6 minute walk from the Rosslyn Metro and has over 4 stars on Google.
Neighborhoods Not to Stay In
If you are visiting Washington DC to see cherry blossoms there are 2 popular areas that I would recommend you NOT stay in.
These 2 neighborhoods are actually two of my favorites to hang out at in Washington DC but they are both NOT metro accessible and have a ton of a traffic and limited parking.
Number one is Georgetown which is absolutely the prettiest neighborhood in Washington DC, but traffic down M street is a nightmare.
There’s no metro station near here unless you are willing to walk very far. Also parking is quite limited.
The other neighborhood is Adams Morgan. The nightlife and café scene is great.
It’s also home to one of my favorite hotels in DC, the Line. But again traffic is awful here, there’s barely parking, and it’s not near any metro stops.
Transportation: How to Get to Cherry Blossoms in DC at the Tidal Basin
How to get to the cherry blossom trees surrounding the Tidal Basin?
You can take the metro, drive or take a scooter!
The Washington D.C. Metro’s Smithsonian stop on the Blue, Yellow, and Silvers lines is the closest to the Tidal Basin. You can walk over in about 10 minutes.
If you have a car you can also drive, but get to the Tidal Basin early or there won’t be any parking. When I say early I mean 6 or 7 a.m. on a weekend.
But if you get there late there is still plenty of parking you will just walk more.
There are several parking lots for Cherry Blossoms on Ohio Dr. Southwest, these fill up quickly, but if you keep driving down Ohio there will usually be street parking.
You can walk a scenic route along the river to the Tidal Basin. It’s actually a very nice paved path which is also lined with some cherry blossoms.
Scooters in Washington DC
There are quite a few dockless electric scooter services around DC now, but good luck finding one that’s charged during cherry blossom peak bloom on a weekday or a weekend near the metro or near the Tidal Basin.
I went twice during weekday afternoons and couldn’t locate a single scooter that was charged. Dockless scooters in Washington DC for 2024 include Jump/Lime (Uber), Lyft, VeoRide and Spin.
Each electric scooter company has its own app so you’ll have to download them all to see if there are any scooters available. I’d download the app and set up your account before you go just in case you happen to find a scooter that’s actually charged.
Driving
Driving to see the cherry blossoms is not recommended during the week because of all the traffic. If you plan on visiting on a weekend however and getting there early, driving can be easier.
Parking Around the Tidal Basin
Parking can be quite limited, but there are spots on Constitution and around Ohio Drive where you can park.
National Cherry Blossom Festival, Washington, DC 2026
The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC, runs from March 20, 2026, to April 12, 2026.
Cherry Blossom Festival Events 2026
The 2026 Cherry Blossom Festival Event dates: TBD
For more information on the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington DC go here.
Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Race DC 2025
The annual Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Race will take place on April 6, 2025 and the 5k will take place on April 6, 2025. More details on the race and how to register here.
I would avoid the Tidal Basin and driving to DC during this time because traffic will be insane with nowhere to park. There will be a number of road closures for the run.
We accidentally went one year during the run and had to turn around and go home. I have run the 10-mile race before too and it is quite the magical experience! If you like to run, but didn’t sign up for the race I suggest you take a run around East Potomac Park during peak bloom! This is part of the route for the Cherry Blossom 10 Miler!
When is the Best Time of Day to See the Cherry Blossoms in D.C.
When exactly is the best time to see cherry blossoms to avoid the crowds? Are weekends better or weekdays? What time of day is the best for seeing the cherry blossoms in DC without the crowds?
Cherry Blossoms in DC around the Tidal Basin on a Weekend
Once the cherry blossoms hit peak bloom be prepared for that weekend to be extremely crowded! Everyone in DC, Maryland, and Virginia will be at the Tidal Basin trying to get that cherry blossom selfie.
It’s so crowded it’s hard to even walk sometimes. And if you have kids, DO NOT BRING A STROLLER!! I repeat do not bring a stroller because you won’t be able to get anywhere.
My advice is if you are going on a weekend, go early in the morning, by 6 to 7 am and you should have the place pretty much to yourself for about an hour.
The crowds start really rolling in at around 9 am and by 11 am you will regret having slept in!
Cherry Blossoms in DC around the Tidal Basin on a Weekday
Going on a weekday to see the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin will be better, but the time of day matters.
Last year I went during the week in the afternoon and the Tidal Basin was still pretty crowded. This is because you have both tourists and locals getting off work all descend onto the Tidal Basin at one time.
Your best bet is going in the morning on a weekday to avoid the crowds for cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin.
Weather also plays a huge role in the number of crowds. Last year we had really nice weather during peak bloom, which is why I think it was so exceedingly crowded.
I still remember over 10 years ago my boyfriend and I randomly skipped class one weekday afternoon to catch the cherry blossoms at sunset and there was literally no one there!
I have this awesome picture of me sitting on the edge of the Tidal Basin with beautiful cherry blossoms overhanging in the background and not a soul in sight. Unfortunately, those days are gone!
Weather for Washington DC Cherry Blossoms
Weather in the Washington D.C. area is beyond finicky in the spring.
Having lived here for the last 35 years, it’s snowed, rained, and been 80 degrees during the cherry blossom season.
For the past few years though I’ve yet to catch a weekend at the Tidal Basin during peak bloom where it wasn’t cloudy and threatening rain.
Dress accordingly in layers and with some waterproof gear.
As the weather is finicky and the cherry blossoms in DC are delicate, a huge rain or thunderstorm storm can completely wash the petals away.
Or a hot spell could make the petals drop and spring green sooner than predicted.
If you are coming here specifically to see the cherry blossoms, I’d watch the weather very carefully a few days could mean glorious pink trees, or a bunch of pink petals basically carpeting the ground.
READ MORE: THE PERFECT AFTERNOON TEA IN WASHINGTON DC
Cherry Blossoms DC: What if I Miss Peak Bloom
One of the questions I get asked the most is:
What if I miss peak bloom?
Luckily there’s another blossom called the Kwanzan cherry blossoms that bloom literally everywhere in this area!
These blooms are a lot sturdier, bigger, and a deeper pink! They look almost like carnations on trees.
Peak bloom for the Kwanzan cherry blossoms in D.C. is just a week or two past the main blossoms.
They are just as pretty to photograph! You can also check out some of the many gardens in DC that have beautiful blooms! There’s literally a field them at Hains Point!
Cherry Blossoms DC: If you are too early for Peak Bloom
As the cherry blossoms are so weathered dependent you might arrive in DC before they bloom.
The predictions for peak bloom have been pushed back twice in past years and then moved up rather suddenly with very little notice.
Fortunately, if a sea of blush is what you’re after the saucer magnolias in DC bloom about a week or two before the cherry blossoms.
These beautiful trees truly put on a show and can be even more magnificent than the cherry blossoms themselves.
There are a few locations to see that sea of pink in DC, but my favorites are Enid A. Haupt Garden at the Smithsonian Castle and Rawlin’s Park both are free.
Enid A. Haupt Garden
The magnolias at Enid A. Haupt Garden and the Smithsonian Castle are a sight to behold!
I honestly might love the saucer magnolias at the Smithsonian Castle more than the cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin in DC.
The saucer magnolias at Enid A. Haupt Garden are starting to show pink and will peak bloom around the week of March 21, 2021.
Enid A. Haupt Garden is open from sunrise to sunset and free to visit.
Location: 1050 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560
Rawlins Park
The saucer magnolias at Rawlins bloom basically around the same time as Haupt Garden.
There’s no fence surrounding Rawlins park so you can visit anytime! And it’s also free.
Location: 1900 E St NW, Washington, DC 20415
Okame cherry blossoms in the DC area tend to bloom about 1- 2 weeks before the Yoshino trees as well.
The colorful purple trees are so pretty and bloom all over the city.
My favorite place to see Okame cherry blossoms in DC is Congressional Cemetery which has a “blossom tunnel” of Okame trees.
The picture above was taken 3/26/2021.
Cherry Blossoms Not in DC
If you don’t want to battle the crowds at the Tidal Basin in D.C. during the cherry blossom peak bloom there are many other places to see the cherry blossoms not in DC. I’d suggest heading over to Kenwood in Bethesda, Maryland.
This cute little neighborhood has all the cherry blossoms and none of the crowds, see the details here. Also, the Kenwood neighborhood cherry blossoms in Maryland reach peak bloom a few days after the cherry blossoms in Washington D.C.
Therefore if you happen to not catch the Washington D.C cherry blossom peak bloom you can still see cherry blossoms in Kenwood Maryland. This exact situation happened to us a few years ago and we still got to experience all the cherry blossom magic in Kenwood!
Another alternative to the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin in Washington DC is East Potomac Park.
East Potomac Park, also known as Hains Point is right next to the Tidal Basin and has plenty of Cherry Blossom Trees with no crowds.
Last year I went to the Tidal Basin during Peak and it was super crowded. But as soon as I was on Ohio Drive I had all the cherry blossom trees to myself.
Download the map of the spot I’m talking about.
East Potomac Park is also home to the beautiful Kwansan cherry blossom trees in Washington DC .
There’s a huge grove of them and it is breathtaking! If you happen to miss peak bloom the Kwansan cherry blossoms bloom about 2 weeks after the Yoshinos along with the tulips in DC.
Washington DC Cherry Blossom Update March 29, 2024
The cherry blossoms you may have heard are on their last legs! Although they are past peak bloom, the trees are still very pretty in my opinion. All the trees that were not fully bloomed yet from my last update are now fully bloomed and looking beautiful!
Here’s a map of where the best blooms are around the Tidal Basin (pink is still in good bloom and green is not as good).
And here are some pictures from today! These were all taken in the pink portion of the map above! If you are wondering if the cherry blossoms are worth visiting this weekend, I would say yes! But they won’t last much longer. The cold week we have had have helped them stay longer! If you are here from TikTok or Instagram, the video you saw was taken today March 29, 2024 at sunrise!
Also because it’s past peak, it’s a lot less crowded. But the Cherry Blossom Kite Festival is this Saturday. I would avoid driving in the Tidal Basin during this event because they close off many streets and redirect traffic.
Washington DC Cherry Blossom Update: March 19, 2024
I headed down to see the cherry blossoms just 2 days after the NPS announced peak bloom! While the warm weather pushed the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin into peak bloom, not all the trees are at peak. As the NPS has said peak bloom is when 70% of the trees are in full bloom.
There are over 3,000 blossom trees around the Tidal Basin, so 70% is a lot of trees in full bloom and it is a magical experience.
But being a local I’ve seen it so much better especially if you are trying to take some pictures for the gram.
The trees not right next to the Tidal Basin are blooming beautifully. And the cherry blossom trees around the MLK Memorial are also fully bloomed.
BUT the trees that are right next to the Tidal basin, the ones that hang over the water are mostly not full yet! Below is a map of what it looks like today from the parts I walked. My theory is that because they are closer to the water they get more cold air.
Also while it was 70 degrees on Sunday causing the blooms to hit peak, it’s been cold ever since, so the slower trees got even slower!
Pink is full bloom and green is partial bloom on the map.
If you are local I would wait a few days before going to see them. If you are coming next week, this could be good news for you because the slower-blooming trees will likely last into next week.
Cherry Blossom Themed Bars & Restaurants in DC
After you are done with Cherry Blossoms in DC it’s time to head over to the Cherry Blossom Bar! This Cherry Blossom pop-up bar by the Drink Company is dripping with cherry blossoms and trees.
Not to mention the Godzilla and a room covered with lanterns and butterflies. And the drinks are all excellent.
My favorites of the evening were the “A God, An Alpha Predator, Godzilla” and the “Yuzu Sour.” The “Beana Colada” comes in the cutest cat mug ever, and don’t let the red bean scare you, it’s perfect in this drink.
“The Way Of The Tea” is light with egg whites and as a nice strong matcha flavor. My least favorites were the “Love Crazed Monster Crushes World” and “There Goes Tokyo,” both were a bit too strong for my taste but those that like a good whiskey would enjoy it.
2022 Cherry Blossom Bar Update: The Drink Company has permanently closed its bars. Hopefully, someone will step up to the plate and take over this wonderful tradition!
The Residents DC Cherry Blossom Themed Restaurant
The Residents Restaurant and Bar in DC has set up a beautiful cherry blossom theme on their outdoor patio.
The food and drinks here are both amazing. The perfect place to celebrate cherry blossoms in Washington DC!
Hook Hall
Hook Hall is one of the cutest beer gardens in DC. They have transformed their outdoor area into a cherry blossom haven!
The themed cherry blossom drinks are on point! This might be my favorite cherry blossom bar after the demise of Drink Company.
Washington DC Cherry Blossom Pictures
Tidal Basin Cherry Blossoms April 4, 2021
How to Photograph Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC
I get this question a lot! How do you get cherry blossom pictures without anyone in them? How do you take cherry blossom pictures by yourself? If you follow me on Instagram, you know most of the pictures on there are pictures I took myself with a tripod.
It’s really not hard to take cherry blossom pictures in Washington DC without anyone in them. Here are some of my photo tips for cherry blossoms in Washington DC:
- Don’t go after 9 am on a weekend. It gets so crowded all around the Tidal Basin it will be impossible to get even a selfie without other people in them!
- Be patient. So you go on a weekday afternoon and there are still a ton of people. You just need to be patient and wait the people out. They usually come in droves so once a group passes you will get a few moments to yourself.
- Stay away from the monuments. The most crowded areas I’ve found are near the monuments. All the other areas are less crowded so that you can set up a tripod and take a picture of yourself with cherry blossoms without anyone in them! The shot below was taken at a point on the Tidal Basin that wasn’t near a monument and most people were just passing through!
- You can also download my map, see above, for some secret spots that I take my pictures at, like the bottom right one below.
Hope these Washington DC cherry blossom photo tips were helpful!
My pink dress available here.
Washington DC Cherry Blossoms Peak Bloom History
Below are the updates from 2019 and you can see what to expect for peak bloom and a few days after as well.
Washington DC Cherry Blossom Update April 1, 2019 (First Day of Peak Bloom)
I made the trip to see the Washington DC cherry blossom on the first day of peak bloom and it was beautiful! Most of the flowers are in full bloom now. The cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin across from the Jefferson Memorial look to be a bit behind and not as full. Close to the boathouse, the cherry blossoms there look to be fully blooming! Some of my pictures of the Washington DC cherry blossoms on the first day of peak bloom.
Green dress available here.
I’ve always wanted to go to this!!
Jennifer
Effortlessly Sophisticated
Come visit!!
omg this is so beautiful. My husband and I are planning a trip to Japan during the cherry blossom season but now you made me want to come to your city too!! xx
http://www.bonjourchiara.com
I’m sure japan will be even prettier!!!
Thank you for this post. I have been to D.C. an endless number of times and yet, I’ve never ever seen the cherry blossoms. This is super helpful.
I am a sucker for Sakura (cherry blossoms in Japan) and love calling them that. I have honestly never seen them in real (sad i know) and cannot wait to do visit Japan again just for it or in DC. Gorgeous photos.
This is so nice! I want to experience it too ? i’ve heard Cherry Blossom in Japan is awesome too! 🙂
I never knew there was a cherry blossom season in Washington DC. You gave some great tips on seeing this. I don’t have kids but I’ll tell friends with kids not to bring a stroller!
The first time that comes to mind when one mentions cherry blossoms will have to be that picturesque landscape of pink and white spread across in Japan. I’ve heard lots about it from friends, but have yet to admire it in person for myself.
As I’m living in Asia, I guess it will be easier for me to check it out in Japan than the States. Nevertheless, lovely shots to pre-empt me on what to expect there!
It is my dream to visit DC when the cherry blossoms are in bloom but despite multiple trips its never worked out that way. Someday soon, hopefully. It’s such a beautiful sight!
I am absolutely smitten with cherry blossom season in DC (I’ve never been to Japan) and had the lucky chance to go a few years ago. It was absolutely beautiful! Even in gloomy days (perhaps even better since there was no crowd). I keep wanting to go back for it but planning a trip is definitely difficult because of the varied blooming times. Love the guide – it makes me want to go back this year so bad!
http://www.rosegoldrhyme.com
I am very much looking forward to cherry blossom season in DC – I have been wanting to make that event for years. I will be traveling down for a few weekdays this year hoping to avoid the crowds. Thanks for all of the tips!
I’ve been wanting to go to the cherry blossom pop up bar! I’ve lived in DC my whole life and have never gone, definitely making it my goal to go this year!
I love cherry blossoms. When I saw your tweet on Twitter about this post. I squealed! Lol
hahaha i love cherry blossoms too!! it’s my fave time of the year!
Very nice. I’ll have to make a trip out there someday!!
Great post! Too bad the weather is about to get bad ㅠㅠ. Cherry blossoms are a must see for sure
The Cherry Blossom season in DC looks amazing! I’ve never had the chance to visit whenever I’ve come to the US, I’ll definitely visit next time 🙂 x
amerzwithlove.com
Very beautiful post. I came here after seeing your twitter account (you liked my tweet about internet censorship). Hopefuly we can work in some collaboration in the future. WIsh you success!
Wow looks amazing we certainly need to head to DC to check this out.
GR | https://www.thegreat.uk
My friend and I try to arrange a trip to visit DC for the Cherry blossom festival last year but yeah, it was so dang cold! We couldn’t make the trip. we haven’t thought of trying again but the pictures look so beautiful and tempting. I would never have known about those times and where to park in what we can do there so this was super helpful and informative. I’ll have to see if I can make the trip this time! ?
Geraldine | https://geraldinetalks.com
I’m glad you found it helpful and hope you make it down this year!! And yeah DC is freeeeezing!!!
I’m a little nervous about the crowds since we will be there the day before Blossoms day. Nice and easy reading post!
your photos are so gorgeous !! i would love to see both DC and the cherry blossoms.
Joy at The Joyous Living
This is a fabulous resource! My family and I are headed to DC at the end of March and if the timing is right we’ll be there for the cherry blossoms. Fingers crossed. I’ll definitely be referencing this post to plan some of our outings. I love all of your photos.
These photos are very beautiful. I also want to take photos with Cherry blossoms in Washington DC. May I ask where you got those lovely dresses? You look stunning in them.
The photos are fantastic!! Thanks for sharing!!