If you’ve made it to this blog post, it is likely because you are looking for information on visiting the Washington DC cherry blossoms. The signature cherry blossoms blossoming is the true test that SPRING has officially SPRUNG! Typically, the DC cherry blossoms bloom around the last week of March into the first week of April. But it varies from year to year based on weather conditions, so it can also be a little before or after that period. I recommend checking www.cherryblossomwatch.com to stay up to date.
I know it can be a little tricky when booking your vacation package to Washington, DC. However, anytime in April should pretty much guarantee you a site of the full blossoms.
How it All Started
The tradition of celebrating the blooming of cherry trees in Japan is centuries old. The planting of cherry trees in Washington DC originated in 1912 as a gift of friendship to the People of the United States from the People of Japan. In Japan, the flowering cherry tree, or “Sakura,” is an important flowering plant. The beauty of the cherry blossom is a symbol with rich meaning in Japanese culture. For more than a hundred years, we have celebrating cherry trees blooming in solidarity. So not only do these trees make for a perfect photoshoot, but there is a lot of cultural meaning behind them!
National Cherry Blossom Festival
If you really want to make the most out of your vacation to see the DC cherry blossoms at their peak, consider visiting during the weekend of the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival. This “festival” typically is from the end of March – the end of April; however, the big parade takes place around mid-April.
Throughout this month, there are plenty of standalone events to participate in. Events include the opening ceremony, kite festival, PetalPalooza, and of course the big parade finale.
Another standalone event of the festival is the Pink Tie Party! Welcome spring with style and experience a world of dazzling flavor, incredible entertainment, and more for the Pink Tie Party, a reception-style event hosted by TCMA (A Drew Company) for the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center.
Don your finest pink attire so you can enjoy all of the soiree festivities! While this event is free, you are welcome to donate. Any and all funds do support the mission of Washington, DC’s iconic National Cherry Blossom Festival.
Washington, DC Tidal Basin
You might be wondering where EXACTLY you’ll find the DC cherry blossoms. More specifically, the exact trees planted in honor of our new found peace with Japan many years ago. That answer is simple: Tidal Basin. Shimmering in the sun, surrounded by cherry trees and national monuments, the Tidal Basin is a must see in Washington, DC. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Washington Monument are easily visible along the two mile long Tidal Basin Loop Trail. Also note that paddleboat rentals are available during late spring, summer and early fall. If you’re looking for a specific activity to do!
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Where to Stay
Now that I’ve convinced you to visit the DC cherry blossoms for vacation, you need to know where to stay! After a long day of hitting the streets, visiting museums and taking endless photos, it’s great to have a cozy hotel room or luxurious suite to relax in. Here’s my list of where to stay in Washington, DC during the cherry blossoms season.
- The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection
- Hyatt House Washington DC
- Canopy by Hilton
- Intercontinental Washington DC
- Hilton Washington DC – The Wharf
- Hilton Washington DC National Mall
- Thompson Washington DC
- Kimpton George Hotel
- Residence Inn by Marriott Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard
- JW Marriott DC
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC
Hotels within Walking Distance to Tidal Basin
Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf
Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf resides in the waterfront district, one of DC’s newest destinations. Our hotel shares in The Wharf’s maritime spirit, and we’ll welcome you to the neighborhood with a local treat at check-in.
Hilton Washington DC National Mall
The Hilton Washington DC National Mall hotel: a modern and stylish version of its former self. We are incorporating contemporary and upscale design elements to suit the needs of future travelers. Close to the action is an understatement.
InterContinental Washington DC The Wharf
Delight in modern comfort and be inspired by the breathtaking views of the Potomac River. This luxury waterfront hotel is located close to gourmet restaurants and shops at The Wharf District.
What To Do
Once you’ve had your fill of the DC cherry blossoms, what now? Well it’s no secret that Washington DC, the nation’s capital, is a major international city with tons of attractions. Home to powerhouse politics and a history that goes back hundreds of years, Washington DC offers an incredible chance to learn about how the US was born. A trip to the city just isn’t complete without a stop at some of its great museums (many of them free), amazing monuments, and iconic historical landmarks.
But there’s also much more to Washington DC than history and politics. Just ask the more than 24 million visitors that stop by the nation’s capital every year. The city is well-known for its sizzling foodie scene, world-class art, and the many green spaces to walk, explore, and relax in. Topping the list of attractions in DC: The White House, the Lincoln Memorial, Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington Monument, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. HERE IS THE FULL COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF DC TOURS & ATTRACTIONS YOU CAN BOOK!
Traveling with Kids? Check out these family-friendly options!
Where to Eat
After all of that fun sightseeing, you’re definitely going to be left hungry! While there are far too many restaurants in DC to break it down, here’s a breakdown that I hope you find helpful.
If you’re looking for something cheap, east, and fast take a look at the food trucks around the museum. They are scattered all throughout the city and you can grab anything from a hot dog to a falafel. If you’re in the mood for Italian, head to Little Italy! If you’re looking for good seafood, there’s no better place than eating at The Wharf, right on the water! Here is the Thrillist’s article on the Best Restaurants in DC if you’re looking for specific restaurant recommendations.
Setting up a Photoshoot
If you were interested in setting up a photoshoot of the DC cherry blossoms, there is a fairly new company called Shoott. They have come into the game to make photoshoots affordable and obtainable by everyone. You can set up a FREE 30-minute photoshoot and pay per photo (or bundle). Here is my full review of them. I highly recommend commemorating your trip to Washington DC for the cherry blossoms!
Planning your trip to DC?
