Cherry Blossoms in DC

Every year at the end of March and beginning of April people from far and near flock to Washington, D.C. to see Japan's gift to the United States - cherry trees. They are in full peak this year, 2025, from March 28-30, but if you missed it this year or are still going to see the blooms that remain, follow this guide to make the most of your trip.

Getting There

If you're coming from more than driving distance, you can fly into the Reagan National Airport or Dulles International (see my video touring the airport). Then, taxi, Uber, rent a car, or take the Metro to your hotel.

pink flowers along the water — View of cherry blossoms at peak bloom along the Tidal Basin

From Northern Virginia, Maryland, or somewhere within driving distance? While driving to DC normally is an easy endeavor, experts recommend taking public transportation for the peak of cherry blossom season. If you're coming from western Loudoun, the closest stop will be the Ashburn stop on the Silver Line of the Metro, which you can catch at Loudoun Station or the Ashburn station near Metrowalk.

map of the metro lines to DC — Map of the Metro lines to DC

If you insist on driving, I suggest parking along the National Mall using the ParkMobile app and walking to your destination.

people at water's edge with pink cherry blossoms — People enjoying the cherry blossoms on peak bloom day

Where To Go

The largest cluster of trees is at the Tidal Basin, where you will also get to see several memorials, including the Washington Monument (where there is a restroom!) and the MLK Jr. Memorial. You can walk here (about a 10-15 minute walk) from the National Mall and also from the Smithsonian Metro stop, if you took the Metro.

view of memorial on tidal basin in DC — View of the Jefferson Memorial from a paddle boat on the Tidal Basin

What To Do

If you want to enjoy the experience on a budget, pack a picnic lunch and a blanket and eat under the branches of the cherry blossom blooms. Many people pose along the edge of the water to take aesthetic pictures for Instagram or social media or to save the memory of their visit with children's or family portraits.

You can also take a paddle boat out on the Tidal Basin (if you know you're going to ahead of time, print out the waiver online and bring it with you); otherwise, you can fill out a waiver electronically and rent a paddle boat for four for $38/$40 for an hour depending on weekday/weekend rentals. This is an enjoyable way to immerse yourself in the experience, get exercise if you're one of the paddlers, and see the monuments and cherry blossom trees from the viewpoint of the water. You'll also get to enjoy the ducks, occasional seagull, and introduction to spring being on the water (and remember your sunscreen!).

pink cherry blossom petals on the water — Cherry blossom petals on the water at the Tidal Basin

Extras

You might get lucky and run into a former president (President Obama was in attendance at the peak blooms last weekend!). You may also get to attend or witness another event going on the same for (for example, this year on peak bloom day, it was also the Trans Day of Visibility Rally). (christopherstreetproject.org ) You can make a day of it and get ice cream from one of the numerous food trucks in the surrounding area or visit the Smithsonian or other museums all within walking distance, and just enjoy the general festiveness in the air.

pink cold drink with tulips in background — Lavender lemonade from food truck vendor in DC

Whether you're coming from far away or you live nearby and just have never taken the trip, I suggest making it an item on your to do list and taking advantage of the opportunity for an immersive, cultural, and beautiful experience. 🌸 Enjoy!

As always, if you need real estate help in the Northern Virginia area, buying a home, renting, or selling, reach out: Maureen Landes, REALTOR, New Home Co-Broker, Relocation Expert, licensed in VA (202) 827-5069 maureenlandes@gmail.com View homes at landesproperties.com