How to Plan a DC Trip During Cherry Blossoms Peak Bloom

Come the last week of March and the first week of April, thousands will flock to Washington, D.C. to see the Yoshino cherry blossoms (the main type of cherry tree that D.C. is famous for, despite having 12+ types of trees in the region) and everyone will celebrate the arrival of spring.

Each year we eagerly await the projected date for cherry blossom bloom, scouting out the best viewing of the cherry blossom trees, from the Jefferson Memorial and Martin Luther King JR. Memorial to the pink flowers that show up in bordering Virginia and Maryland. 

But, how do you plan a trip during one of the busiest times of the year in the Nation’s Capital?

Whether you are here to celebrate the gift of friendship bestowed on the District by the Mayor of Japan in the early 20th century, or you just want to indulge your senses in all things cherry blossoms (may we recommend a cherry blossom cocktail?), you won’t be disappointed when you plan a trip to see Washington’s cherry blossoms this year.

So, how do you plan a trip to see an event that has dates that vary from year to year? Well, first you need to understand what peak bloom means before you can book your overnight stay and decide on which annual festival events you want to attend. 

What is Cherry Blossom Peak Bloom? 

Cherry blossom peak bloom refers to the point in time when the majority of the cherry blossom trees (70 percent) in a specific area have reached their maximum blooming potential. It is the moment when the trees are in full bloom, and the most number of flowers open at the same time, which usually lasts only a few days (sometimes a week).

Peak bloom timing varies each year depending on the weather, temperature, and location. For example, D.C. and Tokyo may see their peak bloom in March and April, while farther north in Boston or Hokkaido, Japan, you may see cherry blossoms as late as May. 

One thing is for sure though, for many people, cherry blossom peak bloom is an important event, as it marks the beginning of spring and is considered a symbol of renewal and hope. It is a time when locals and visitors participate in cultural activities, picnics, kite flying, the National Cherry Blossom Festival, pink parties, and to see special interactive art installations and exhibits at museums in D.C.

When is Cherry Blossom Peak Bloom?

This is the tricky part of cherry blossoms- their bloom time is based on the whims of Mother Nature. However, usually in mid to late-February, the National Park Service will make a prediction based on the winter weather so far that year.

The Washington Post makes their predictions a bit earlier, but personally, I trust the NPS a bit more. The Post will be close, but the NPS is usually spot on. 

The cherry blossom trees in Washington, D.C. usually hit peak bloom in mid to late March. They have been known to peak in early April too. It does make booking flights difficult, but even if you don’t see the blooms at their peak (remember- this only means that 70% of the blossoms are open), you will still see one of the most spectacular, highly anticipated events in the Mid-Atlantic region. 

Trust me, if the city planners and the team at the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival could figure out peak bloom of the cherry trees, we would all be a lot less stressed. Just think of the uncertainty as part of the charm of the blooms.  

How Does Weather Affect the D.C. Cherry Blossom Peak Bloom Time? 

While weather conditions do affect the yearly peak bloom prediction, recent years have seen green buds start to appear in February, making the average peak bloom date within the same few weeks each early spring. The earliest peak bloom on historical records was March 15, 1990, with the latest being April 18th in the late 1950s.

According to the EPA, “based on the entire 102 years of data, the average peak bloom date for Washington’s cherry blossoms is April 4.” 

However, average temperatures and the usual weather patterns are changing thanks to climate change, making this short-lived scene of splendor across the Capital Region a little harder to predict than it has been in the past decade.

The EPA reported that “peak bloom date for the cherry trees is occurring earlier than it did in the past. Since 1921, peak bloom dates have shifted earlier by approximately seven days. The peak bloom date has occurred before April 4 in 16 of the past 20 years.”

You will see the earliest peak blooms when we have warmer temperatures in January, but late frosts can stall the blooms and even kill off buds. 

Variable temperatures will also affect the length of the blooming period, which makes long-term forecasts difficult. The organizers of the National Cherry Blossom Festival are basically in a constant state of holding their breath as they wait to see if ideal conditions will keep their event dates within peak bloom time in one of the best places to see the iconic cherry blossoms.

What are the Best Dates to Plan Your DC Trip for Peak Bloom?

Book your trip for the last week of March or the first week of April. You are guaranteed to see cherry blossoms. The worst thing would be to come too early or too late. Personally, I’d book the last week in May, even if it is over spring break. It’s been the most consistent for gorgeous cherry blossom flowers.

Now that you know WHEN to go to DC for peak bloom, let’s look at the logistics of getting there and build a D.C. itinerary that will not only let you see the sites, but also give you some wiggle room to actually relax and enjoy your trip.

Want all of your travel planning details in one spot? Grab our digital or paperback guide to Washington, D.C.

How to get to Washington DC

By Plane

There are three major airports that serve the Washington DC area:

1. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
2. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
3. Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

Check flights and rates HERE. 

How to get to D.C. from the airport

Depending on your arrival airport and how you like to travel, there are a few ways to get into Washington, D.C. from all three airports. 

• Taxi or rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services, such as Uber or Lyft, are available at all airports. Once you land, check signs to see where you are allowed to pick up your rideshare, as not all are allowed to pick you up curbside.
• Metrorail: The DC Metrorail system serves all three airports. Learn how to ride the Metro HERE.
  1. From DCA, you can take the Silver Line to the city center.
  2. From IAD, you can FINALLY take the Silver Line to downtown D.C.
  3. From BWI, you can take a free shuttle to the BWI Marshall Rail Station and then take the MARC or Amtrak trains to Union Station in DC.
• Bus: Several bus companies offer shuttle services from the airports to different locations in the city.
• Rental car: Rental car counters are available at all airports if you’d rather have a car during your stay. I do recommend getting a rental car if you want to wander more than downtown D.C., and book in advance if you are traveling during cherry blossom season and summer months. We recommend DiscoverCars.com to find the best rates on rental cars whenever you are traveling to D.C. or wherever your travels may take you. All of the major suppliers are there and somehow they have always found the best rates for my trips.  

By Train

Washington, D.C. is served by Amtrak, which operates trains from various cities across the United States, as well as by local commuter rail services like the MARC and Virginia Railway Express. 

Before you depart, check a few details to make sure you get on the correct train and have a smooth ride. 

1. Check the Amtrak or commuter rail schedules and fares, and book your train tickets in advance.
2. Arrive at the train station in your departure city at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Make sure to have your train ticket (paper or digital) and identification with you.
3. Board the train and find your assigned seat and/or cabin. Remember, the Quiet Car is QUIET. No cell phones, loud kids, etc.
4. Once you arrive in Washington, D.C., grab your bags from the luggage rack in your train car (or at your seat) and exit the train station.
5. Hop on the DC Metro, grab a taxi, call a rideshare or walk to your hotel (or final destination in D.C.)

Washington DC’s two train stations:

Union Station: Located in the heart of the city, Union Station is the primary Amtrak station in D.C., and is served by local commuter rail services. From here, you can take the D.C. Metrorail or buses to your final destination.

Washington, DC – Union Station (NOMA): Located in the NoMa (North of Massachusetts Avenue) neighborhood, this station is served by Amtrak and MARC commuter rail. It is located closer to the neighborhoods of Capitol Hill, Union Market, and the H Street Corridor.

Double check all train schedules and routes before you book and before you head to the train station. Train cancellations and closures do happen thanks to weather, strikes and other factors. 

By Car

Washington, D.C. is super easy to get to by car, with several major highways connecting the city to other parts of the United States. Depending on where you are coming from, here is a simple breakdown on how to get to Washington DC by car:

Determine your route and direction of travel: Washington DC is located along the east coast, and major highways include I-95, I-495 (AKA the Capital Beltway), I-66, and US-50.

Timing Your Drive: Plan your trip and estimate your travel time, taking into account traffic and any rest stops or meals you may need to take. Try very, VERY hard not to arrive during rush hour in D.C. or you will find that the Beltway is a parking lot.

Traveling to D.C. with Kids?

Pick up a print or digital copy of our new Washington, D.C. with Kids Travel Guide and Itinerary. You and your kids will never be bored, plus you can avoid the overwhelming task of researching and planning your trip because we already did it for you. Written by locals and tested out by local kids (and their cousins) who are the harshest critiques in travel and family time. Learn more or order your digital copy today! Paperback copies are available on Amazon for immediate delivery.

Check your paperwork! Make sure to have a valid driver’s license, registration, and insurance for the vehicle you will be driving. Enter D.C. via one of the major highways, and very carefully follow the signs to your destination. It is very easy to miss an exit, especially when you are headed to The Wharf and downtown, so don’t get flustered if you miss your exit. Just go to the next one and turn around.

In the District: Be aware of traffic and parking regulations, and plan ahead if you want to park in one of the public parking garages and lots around the city. If you can, reserve a spot on SpotHero before you arrive, especially if you want to park close to the Tidal Basin. You will NOT be able to park right next to the Tidal Basin, as streets will be closed off, but you can get pretty close. 

GPS and Map Apps: Washington, D.C. is confusing. The quadrants only make sense when you are walking or using a map. First-time visitors can end up on the opposite side of the city if they don’t take note of the NW or SW in an address.  

NOTE: Some parts of Washington, D.C. have restricted access or limited parking, especially near government buildings or popular tourist attractions, and even more so during the Cherry Blossom Festival. Keep an eye on traffic and road closures if you are driving around the city. You will be ticketed and towed if you park in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Our Favorite Cherry Blossom Hotels

If you want to see the Yoshino cherry trees, then you want to stay close to Washington’s Tidal Basin. While the exact timing of peak bloom is hard to predict months in advance, you are most likely to hit a few peak bloom days in late March or the first week of April, so plan your trip around those two weeks, and you will see at least some of the city’s iconic cherry trees in bloom. 

Remember- they are still beautiful even if the cherry trees’ blossom development is a bit early or late compared to your travel dates. Peak bloom will also effect hotel prices, which generally soar at this time of year not just because of the cherry blossoms, but spring break season as well for many kids across the country.  

Salamander Washington DC

• Address: 1330 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
• Details

The Salamander DC (formerly the Mandarin Oriental) is the ONE hotel you will want to book when you visit the Nation’s Capital during cherry blossom season. It also happens to be the closest hotel to the Tidal Basin. It’s pricey, but if you can swing it the location and service are worth it.

There are rooms large enough for families, as well as an indoor pool and incredible spa if you need some downtime to relax. 

Hotel Zena, A Viceroy Urban Retreat

• Address: 1155 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
• Details

We love the Hotel Zena not just for it’s location, which is walkable to most of the city’s attractions, but all of the art, rooftop pool, cocktails at Figleaf Bar & Lounge, and the number of suites available that can fit families, couples, and even a girls’ getaway group. Oh, and it’s pet friendly! 

Viceroy Washington DC

• Address: 1430 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005
• Details

The Viceroy in Washington DC is not only pet friendly, but is one of the more calming, yet highly conceptualized design hotels in the city. With a rooftop pool, it’s easy to see why so many guests book rooms here, especially with views of the District, and easy walks to the White House and other major museums and government sites in the neighborhood. 

Grand Hyatt Washington DC

• Address: 1000 H St NW, Washington, DC 20001
• Details

For Hyatt loyalty members, you can still enjoy your top-tier status and walk to the White House and Tidal Basin during your stay. While there is no pool, the Grand Hyatt does have one of the cheaper self-parking options for overnight stays in D.C. 

AC Hotel Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard

• Address: 867 New Jersey Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003
• Details

AC Hotel is pet and family friendly with comfortable rooms and easy access to all of the great sites and restaurants in the Capitol Hill and Navy Yard neighborhoods. While it feels more like a business hotel (calm, neutral decor), the rooftop sky bar is a welcome retreat for anyone looking for a cocktail with a view.

Better yet, you can walk across the street for groceries, or down towards the water to one of the best restaurants in the city- Albi- which takes the top spot on our Middle Eastern restaurant guide to D.C.

More Washington DC Cherry Blossom Hotels

• Conrad Washington DC
• Waldorf Astoria Washington DC (great afternoon tea)
• Canopy By Hilton 
• Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf
• The St. Regis Washington DC (amazing afternoon tea)
• Thompson Washington D.C., by Hyatt

Parking Near the Tidal Basin

The Tidal Basin is pretty much the most popular attraction in D.C. during the Cherry Blossom Festival, and parking can be very difficult to find. Pay VERY close attention to street signs, as you will be ticketed and/or towed if you park in the wrong area. 

Parking Garages and Parking Lots

There are several parking garages and lots in the area, including the Tidal Basin Parking Lot, which is located off Maine Avenue SW, between the Bureau of Engraving and the Tidal Basin. Other nearby parking garages include L’Enfant Plaza Parking Garage, the Parking Garage at 1101 4th St SW, Union Station Parking Garage, the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center Parking Garage, and Ford Theatre parking garage.

However, be prepared for high rates and limited availability during peak hours. RESERVE your spot ahead of time on apps like SpotHero to ensure you actually get a spot in the garage at a fair price. 

Street Parking

Street parking is limited near the Tidal Basin, but there are some metered spots available on Ohio Drive and along Independence Avenue. Keep in mind that parking regulations are strictly enforced, so make sure to check the signs for any parking restrictions or time limits.

Some streets that we think are open for parking may actually be closed for the festival, so keep an eye on signage and the news stations for updates. The street parking situation is changing all of the time.

Park and Ride

Some parking facilities outside the city offer shuttle services to the National Mall and Tidal Basin during the festival. You can also park at the Metro Park and Ride lots outside of the city, and take the Metro in. 

Personally, I’d recommend this option, as you don’t want to deal with the traffic in D.C. when hoards of people are crossing streets all along your route.

Hotel Parking

If you are staying at a hotel, and already parking overnight, leave your car in the hotel lot and just walk, bike or ride the Metro. I can’t stress enough how much you do not want to drive towards the Tidal Basin during cherry blossom season. 

Public Transportation

I’ll say it again–take public transportation instead of driving. The Tidal Basin is accessible via the Metrorail (Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines) and several bus routes. You can also take a bike or scooter to get around the area, which will be more cost effective and much faster than trying to navigate all of the closed roads.

Washington, D.C. Peak Bloom Cherry Blossom Itinerary (SAMPLE)

You made it to D.C.! Ok, let’s work on your itinerary so you get a general sense of what is actually feasible on a weekend in D.C. Keep in mind that walking will be a big part of your day, and navigating the city takes time.

DAY 1

• 11am Arrive in D.C.
• 12pm Lunch
• 1:30pm Tidal Basin Welcome Area & Stage
• 5:30pm Dinner
• 7:30pm DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour (tickets)

Day 2

• 7:30am Light Breakfast
• 10am Donut tour
• 1pm CityCenterDC Art installation
• 2:30pm Light lunch
• 3:30pm Artechouse cherry blossom exhibit (timed tickets)
• 6:30pm Cherry Blossom Photos with Flytographer 
• 8pm Dinner at Albi

Day 3

• 8:15am Depart for White House (grab to go coffee and pastries before you head out!)
• 9am White House Tour 
  * Don’t forget your phone, I.D. and tickets! Everything else must stay at your hotel.
• 11:30am Lunch at
• 1pm Blossom Kite Festival
• 4pm Free time at the museums on The Mall
  • National Museum of Asian Art, 1100 Jefferson Dr SW

Day 4

• 6:30am Sunrise on the Tidal Basin
• 8am Breakfast
• 9:30am U.S. Botanic Garden
• 11am Tour of the U.S. Capitol
• 1pm Lunch
• 2pm Drive to the Kenwood cherry blossoms in MD
• 4:30pm Shop Bethesda Row
• Dinner at Roku

Things to do in DC during Cherry Blossom Peak Bloom

Now that you have a sample DC itinerary, let’s dig into a few more things you can do when you are in the city.

As you already know, the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington DC brings even more events and special attractions to D.C., on top of everything else there is do on a trip to D.C. While it can be overwhelming (yes, even locals get overstimulated by everything going on), with so many museums, government buildings, and neighborhoods to explore, we are breaking down the main things to do in D.C. during cherry blossom peak bloom. 

If you have time for more, just think of it as an extra sprinkle of awesome on your trip. 

Visit the DC Tidal Basin

The Tidal Basin is the most popular destination during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, with thousands of cherry blossom trees lining the water. Take a stroll around the basin and enjoy a picnic near the memorials, or rent a paddleboat and enjoy the view from the water. Even in the rain, this part of D.C. is worth exploring for the trees alone.

Attend the National Cherry Blossom Festival

The festival offers a several annual events and activities, including the Blossom Kite Festival, the National Cherry Blossom Parade, and the Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival. Check the festival’s official website for a full schedule of events, or look at our list below of all events happening this year.

Sunset Photos with the Cherry Blossoms

There is no better time to get photos in Washington, D.C. than when the cherry blossoms are in bloom. Book a session with a Flytographer who will make you, your friends and your family look incredible as the sun begins to set along the Tidal Basin. 

Book your session quickly though, as cherry blossoms are the most popular time for these professional photographers. 

Use Discount Code: WALKINGONMEDIA to get $10 off your photo session. 

Explore the National Mall

The National Mall is home to DC’s most famous monuments and memorials, including the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and World War II Memorial, as well as some of the best museums for kids (and adults). Take a walk or bike ride around the Mall and enjoy the cherry blossom trees sprinkled throughout the D.C.’s national park.

Visit the Smithsonian Museums

We like our monuments as much as we love our world-class museums here in D.C., and are located on or near the National Mall. Admission to Smithsonian museums is free, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers, families who aren’t sure if their kids will last long at a paid attraction, and those looking for a quiet corner to sit (The courtyard at the National Portrait Gallery is one of my favorite places to hide). 

Make sure you enquire about any special exhibits happening during cherry blossom season. Museums, like the National Museum of Asian Art (the Freer Gallery of Art), will often bring in special exhibits, host lectures, and even have family activities to bring the cherry blossoms to life through art. 

Enjoy Local D.C. Restaurants

D.C. is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, but in the spring, our chefs pull out all of their creativity to highlight the cherry blossom blooms, or at least a bit more cherry flavor in their sweet and savory dishes.

Look for prix-fix menus, cherry blossom cocktails and beers, limited-edition desserts, and our favorite, the mini cherry blossom donuts from Astro Chicken and Donuts.

Order a box in advance (essential if you want them, especially on weekends when they sell out) to pick up before the Blossom Kite Festival at the Washington Monument so you can enjoy a taste of spring while you watch master kite fliers tackle the winds. 

Take a Cherry Blossom-themed Tour

Many tour companies offer cherry blossom-themed tours during the festival, including walking tours, bike tours, food and Segway tours. Here are a few we recommend if you are looking for a guided experience. 

• Washington DC Cherry Blossoms By Bike Tour
• The DC Cherry Blossom Tour
• Washington DC: Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour
• Washington DC Delicious Donut Adventure by Underground Donut Tour
• Washington DC Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

Shop at the Cherry Blossom Pop-Up

The festival includes a pop-up shop featuring cherry blossom-themed merchandise, including T-shirts, hats, books, jewelry, posters and other souvenirs, along with National Park souvenirs to take home.

Shops across D.C. will also host pop-ups that feature artists celebrating the annual blooms.

Check out Shop Made in D.C. for loads of local artists anytime of year, but we especially love to check out their locations in the spring. 

Get out of Washington, D.C. 

D.C. isn’t the only spot in the area with loads of cherry blossoms. Head up to Kenwood in Maryland to wander a neighborhood filled with cherry blossom trees. There are several spots throughout the state of Maryland to see blooms (ex. Fort McHenry in Baltimore), as well as in Virginia (ex. Arlington National Cemetery), and even Delaware (check out Wilmington DE and Longwood Gardens). 

National Cherry Blossom Festival Events

The National Cherry Blossom Festival hosts the largest spring events in D.C. Each event is so good, you will want to pick at least one to plan your trip around so you don’t miss a bit of the magic.

Even as locals, I will block out time to hit at least one or two events each year; going to all would even overwhelm me, let alone my kids! 

From start to finish, here are the festival events you will want to check out this year. 

Pink Tie Party

• Date/ Time: Friday, March 15, 7pm-11pm
• Address: Union Station Washington D.C.
• Entry Requirements: Paid tickets
• Website

Opening Ceremony

• Date/ Time: Saturday, March 23, 5pm-6:30pm
• Address: Warner Theatre 513 13th Street, NW
• Entry Requirements: Free timed tickets required
• Website

Tidal Basin Welcome Area & Stage

• Date/ Time: Peak Bloom Dates
• Address: West Basin Drive SW
• Entry Requirements: Free
• Website

Blossom Kite Festival

• Date/ Time: Saturday, March 30, 10am-4pm
• Address: Washington Monument Grounds
• Entry Requirements: Free
• Website

Sakura Taiko Fest

• Date/ Time: Saturday, March 30
• Address: Sylvan Theatre, Independence Avenue & 15th Street SW
• Entry Requirements: Free
• Website

Cherry Blossom 5K & 10 Mile

• 5k Run: Saturday, April 1, 9:15 – 11 AM at Freedom Plaza, 14th & Pennsylvania Ave. NW
• 10 Mile Race: Saturday, April 1, 7:30 – 11 AM at Washington Monument Grounds, 15th and Constitution Ave. NW
• Entry Requirements: Registration to participate required
• Website

Petalpalooza® & Festival Fireworks Show

• Date/ Time: Saturday, April 6, 1pm -9pm
• Address: Capitol Riverfront
• Entry Requirements: Free
• Website

National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade®

• Date/ Time: Saturday, April 13, 10am-12pm
• Address: Constitution Avenue NW, between 7th and 17th Streets
• Entry Requirements: Paid tickets required for the stands
• Website

The Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival

• ​Date/ Time:
  • Saturday, April 13, 10:30am – 6:00pm
  • Sunday, April 14, 10:30 am – 4:00 pm
• Address: Pennsylvania Avenue, NW – Between 3rd and 7th Streets
• Entry Requirements: Paid tickets required (Children 12 and under are always free and do not require a ticket.)
• Website

So, what did we miss? Need more info? Check out our printable cherry blossom guide to D.C.