How to see the Cherry Blossom in Washington D.C.
About the Cherry Blossom
Cherry blossoms have been part of Japanese life and culture for ages. In 1912, these exquisite trees were offered by the People of Japan to the People of the US as a token of friendship. In March 1912, over 3000 cherry trees arrived in Washington DC from Yokohama in Japan, most planted around the Tidal Basin. The number and variety of trees have grown since then.
Today, the US celebrates the National Cherry Blossom Festival every year to mark the beginning of the friendship between the two nations. Millions flock to the capital to enjoy the four-week festivities, or just for the peak weekend, which varies every year.
Washington DC in full bloom
This is how to see the Cherry Blossom in Washington D.C.
The Cherry Blossom Festival brings a lot of people during the month of March and early April. To plan your trip, it’s best if you follow the bloom watch by the National Park Service. After the flowers bloom, the fullness of the trees depends on the weather conditions. Sometimes the wind and heavy rain will cause the petals to fall.
Where to stay?
I recommend the Sheraton Suites Old Town Alexandria. It’s 10 minutes away from King Street and Old Town’s waterfront, and near a bus station that easily connects you to the Metro, if you want a more local experience.
Transportation?
METRO AND BUS: You can move around easily using the WMATA (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority). You can buy a day pass at the kiosk or use your Apple Wallet and tap your phone at the points of entry. Use your Maps app or Google app for directions. The metro system is very easy to follow and the bus connections too.
BIKE IT: You can move around the city by renting bikes using the Capital Bikeshare app
RIDESHARE: Use Uber or Lyft at your convenience. Especially after hours. The WMATA closes at 1am.
Day 1 – Arlington and Alexandria
Here you can take the tram tour for a guided and faster visit for a fee, or you can just walk for FREE.
I recommend visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, especially during the change of guard which happens at the top of every hour. This historic monument is dedicated to deceased U.S. service members whose remains have not been identified and the ceremony is solemn and beautiful to witness.
National 911 Pentagon City Memorial
The memorial is located outside the Pentagon and it’s best to access via Metrorail at the Pentagon or Pentagon City stops and walk. This is FREE and open 24 hours, 365 days of the year.
Pro Tip: For both attractions make sure you bring snacks, water or have eaten beforehand. There are no restaurants or coffee shops at these historic attractions. You’ll need the energy to move around.
Old Town Alexandria
Get back to Old Town Alexandria for dinner at one of the many restaurants near the Waterfront in King St. Then walk around the streets and enjoy over 250 years of history.
Other dinner recommendation is at Ambar – Balkan Cuisine in Arlington.
Day 2 -Washington DC, Georgetown
Also, if you are into museums and historical places you could enjoy the rest of the day in the museums, which are FREE.
Nightlife – Dinner and Dancing
Visit the Casta’s Rum Bar, dine and stay for the after-hours party.
How to see the Cherry Blossom in Washington D.C. This time of the year is special. Visiting the Cherry Blossom is something that you must see in this lifetime to welcome a new season, new friendships or a new stage in your incredible life.