Cherry blossoms in Washington are a few week’s away. Peak bloom is expected to occur any time between April 1-6.
The city is beautiful this time of year. It is one of the reasons why I love my hometown. Pink petals that resemble snow cover the sidewalks and streets, and all is well with the world. There is something about cherry blossoms that makes me feel at ease. Maybe it is because our winters are so harsh? All I know is I cannot wait!
One of the things I cannot stand is the crowds. Being from the nation’s capitol, I am used to the droves of tourists that ascend upon our city. It is hard to get mad at them even when they are a group of 15 people wearing matching t-shirts and visors. But during cherry blossom season, I do not have the patience.
Every since Instagram became a cultural norm, more people come to DC. I get it, who doesn’t want to see the beautiful Japanese wonders that line our tidal basin.? However, some of us live here and we want to enjoy it too!
So for this post I am sharing my top 3 places to enjoy sans the tourists.
The U.S. National Arboretum
Not a lot of people know that the arboretum is even there. You can spend an entire day here, and still not see the entire thing. Walk, bike, or drive around it is accessible for all.
Cherry blossoms are scattered everywhere, but the Asian Collection is the place to be. Wooded Japanese Gardens, a Chinese pagoda, and views of the river it is serene to say the least.
The bonsai gardens are breathtaking all in their own right. I can spend hours just in this section.
Dumbarton Oaks
Tucked away just above Georgetown, this is DC’s very own secret garden. This is another spot a lot of people do not know about. I am always surprised when people have never heard of it.
I took the photo below right at dusk a couple of years ago. It is my favorite place to go with a picnic, bottle of wine, and enjoy the view.
Hains Point aka East Potomac Park
Close to The Wharf and along the SW waterfront this is a great place to take kids. It is right across the river from Regan National, so you can watch the planes land extremely close. You also can see various boats and water taxis go by. There is a playground, walking trials, tons of ducks, and did I mention hundreds of cherry blossom trees line the roads?
This 3 mile set of roads and sidewalks actually boasts more cherry blossoms than the tidal basin itself.
Okay, full disclosure, Hains point is not tourist-free. I can assure though it does not draw nearly the crowds as the mall. Tip- to find parking get there early.
I have to say that City Center is a great place during this time of year. There are no actual trees, but the lanterns (featured in the first photo of this post) are something worth seeing. Not to mention it is a close walk to where many festivities are held.
Hope you guys enjoy this time as much as I do!
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