The Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in D.C. This Year (2024)

March 19, 2024, marks the spring equinox, the day when the sun crosses the equator and heads north. Those in the Northern Hemisphere can look forward to longer hours of serotonin-boosting sunshine, warmer temperatures, and nature budding back to life.

Few U.S. cities undergo this seasonal transformation more beautifully and dramatically than Washington, D.C., with its 3,800 cherry blossom trees. Gifted to the nation's capital by Tokyo's late mayor, Yukio Ozaki, back in 1912, they remain a visually striking symbol of renewal, hope, and friendship.

Their synchronized blooming is so cherished that there's an annual National Cherry Blossom Festival (held this year from March 20 through April 14) that draws more than 1.5 million people from around the globe. As for the best time to see the blooms? The National Park Service predicts peak blooms from March 23 to 26 in 2024, and visitors can stay tuned to the NPS Bloom Watch website for updated information about their progress.

Because the window to view the cherry blossoms is so fleeting, here's a handy guide to help you strategize and make the most of a trip to Washington, D.C., to see the stunning display this spring.

Tidal Basin

One of the most photographed sites during cherry blossom season, this 10-foot-deep reservoir between the Potomac River and Washington Channel reflects the more than 1,400 Yoshino cherry trees that border it. Their soft, whitish-pink hue and delicate almond scent entice the senses. This basin also provides terrific photo ops near the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

But with such wide appeal comes crowds. If you want to steer clear of the masses, drop by early in the morning when the natural light illuminates everything, including the water, with a warm, flattering glow. Or, a smarter option, book a room at the Salamander. The stately hotel boasts unfettered views of the Tidal Basin, plus, it's within easy walking distance to the trees.

U.S. National Arboretum

Situated on the eastern edge of the nation's capital, the U.S. National Arboretum maintains a wonderfully hushed vibe all year round. This nature and preservation center is quite isolated, accessible only by car and stretching across 446 acres. It boasts more than 70 types of cherry trees. Also worth scoping out is the National Bonsai and Penjing Museum, which displays about 60 diminutive, meticulously pruned specimens.

For some of the city's top locally owned restaurants, hop back in the car and head about two miles away to the H Street Corridor. The buzzy neighborhood is home to The Little Grand, which serves up co*cktails and pizzas by beloved New York chef Bobby Hellen in a stylish, discreet setting. Another exciting option, Daru turns out delicious riffs on classic Indian dishes. (The black daal with burrata is a knockout.)

National Mall

Another popular stop for visitors regardless of the time of year is the National Mall. To peep the puffy blossoms, head just west of the Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument, where you'll spot little clusters of trees.

For a bite nearby — and since you'll already be on your feet — stroll over to Old Ebbitt Grill, a beloved city institution founded in 1856, known for its raw bar, crab cakes, and burgers. Another terrific option is Immigrant Food by chef Enrique Limardo. The visionary concept celebrates the rich culinary contributions of America's immigrants in a vibrant, colorful setting.

Dumbarton Oaks Gardens

The Dumbarton Oaks Gardens, encompassing 16 acres, is home to the aptly named Cherry Hill. Come springtime, the slope transforms into a cascading sea of pink with various types of trees, including Sargent's and winter-flowering cherries. You can also spot other resplendent blooms (magnolias, forsythias, and tulips) around this time of year.

Afterward, treat yourself to a well-crafted drink. Lead bartender Engidawork "Engi" Alebachew is shaking up original libations for the occasion at Bourbon Steak in the Four Seasons. And at Fitzgerald's, a swanky lounge steps away from the Georgetown University campus, you can pair elevated bar snacks like Korean chicken wings or a local cheese board with some Japanese whisky from the extensive collection.

Hains Point Loop Trail

Prefer to explore the city via bike? Check out Hains Point Loop Trail in East Potomac Park. The flat, four-mile cycling route runs along the Potomac River, Anacostia River, and Washington Channel, and past iconic monuments and plenty of cherry trees. For a pit stop, visit Navy Yard, the waterfront district that's boomed in recent years with noteworthy dining options. The Salt Line by Kyle Bailey specializes in sustainable seafood from New England to the Chesapeake Bay.