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Destination of the Day

Washington, DC

Visiting Washington, D.C., during cherry blossom season is one of the top spring activities for travelers across the U.S. Now, according to the latest forecasts, it seems that visitors won't have to wait much longer to see their favorite florals in full bloom. The National Park Service recently dropped their cherry blossom forecast, confirming that they expect peak bloom between March 22 and 25. Here's how to enjoy the city's bright pink petals.

National Cherry Blossom Festival

The annual National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the biggest events in the nation's capital. The tradition dates back to 1912 when the then-mayor of Tokyo gifted over 3,000 trees to the U.S. to celebrate the enduring friendship between the two countries. This year, the city-wide event will take place from March 20 to April 17, and will feature four weeks of international cultural performance and special events like art exhibits and foodie gatherings. Among the most popular events are the Blossom Kite Festival, the National Cherry Blossom Parade, and the Japanese Street Festival.

Best Spots to See the Blooms

Although the National Mall and several other highly-congested touristy areas offer great opportunities to see these colorful flowers in full bloom, there are some quieter places around the D.C. area where you can see the cherry blossoms without the crowds. The Arboretum features 76 varieties of cherry trees blossoming in the research and display collections, and you can take a self-guided adventure through acres of flowering cherry trees by car, foot, or bicycle. Or, check out the 1,200-acre Anacostia Park, where cherry trees bloom all along the river in a spectacular display.

Getting Around Washington, DC

Navigating the city during the National Cherry Blossom Festival can be challenging, especially on the weekends. Parking is limited in D.C., so the best way to get to the Tidal Basin and the National Mall is by public transportation or Capital Bikeshare bike.

Vacation Like a Pro

The best time to walk the Tidal Basin without the crowds is in the early morning. Not only does the east side of the Tidal Basin (between the National Mall and the Jefferson Memorial) tend to get more congested as the goes on, the early morning also provides the best light for photos.

Rachel Cooper
Travel Writer

Your Packing List

While it can be tempting to fully embrace spring, you should still generally pack warmer clothing, especially a jacket for the evenings.

There's always the possibility of rain; consider packing an umbrella, raincoat, and rain boots.

You're going to be doing a lot of walking, so a comfy pair of shoes is a must-have.

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Get Inspired

One of the only places in the U.S. where you can see the Milky Way, Julian, California was officially accredited as an International Dark Sky Community by the International Dark-Sky Association in May 2021. Stargazers from all over flock here to marvel at the spiral galaxy, which can be enjoyed in and around town, including at Lake Cuyamaca and Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.