Mar 12, 2024

The National Cherry Blossom Festival: A Guide to Enjoy All the Beauty

From March 20th to April 14th, Washington, D.C. transforms into a picturesque wonderland. It welcomes the National Cherry Blossom Festival, a cherished celebration of nature’s splendor and a symbol of enduring friendship between nations. Dating back to 1912, when Japan gifted the city with cherry trees as a token of goodwill, this festival has become a beloved tradition. As delicate pink blooms adorn the cityscape, millions flock to witness this breathtaking spectacle. If you’re planning to visit, here’s our guide on how to make the most of your experience.

Explore Independently

For those seeking a more personal experience, embarking on a self-guided adventure offers flexibility and freedom. DC’s Metrorail, Metrobus and DC Circulator are the most convenient options for reaching the city’s blossom sites during the Festival. The Tidal Basin, located near the Jefferson Memorial, serves as the epicenter of cherry blossom viewing. As you wander along the shoreline, take in the iconic landmarks of the MLK and FDR memorials, each adorned with the delicate pink blossoms.

Embark on a Guided Walking Tour

If you prefer a guided experience enriched with historical insights, several walking tours provide an excellent way to explore the blossoms and their significance. Options like the “Bloom on the Basin” tour and the “Blossom Secrets Tour” offer engaging narratives that delve into the fascinating history behind these cherished blooms. Here are our top picks of guided walking tours: 

Bloom on the Basin: DC Cherry Blossom Tour

Blossom Secrets Tour by Washington Walks

DC by Foot Blossoms on the Basin Walking Tour

Set Sail on a Guided Boating Tour

Discover the beauty of Washington, D.C.’s cherry blossoms from a guided boat tour along the Potomac River. From dining cruises offering lunch or dinner with a view to hot-tub boat tours, boating excursions are an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the splendor of the cherry blossom season. We suggest the following guided boat tours: 

Capitol River Cruises’ Cherry Blossom Cruise

Cherry Blossom Dining Cruises

Cherry Blossom Water Taxi

DC Cherry Blossom Hot Tub Tour

Embark DC Cherry Blossom Tours

Hotel AKA Alexandria’s Blossom Bliss

Explore Alternative Experiences

For those seeking a more unconventional adventure, options like biking, bus or pedicab tours are the perfect choice. We recommend the following as distinctive ways to enjoy the blooms. 

Cherry Blossom Guided Tour with Pedego Alexandria

DC Cherry Blossom Guided Bus Tour

Nonpartisan Pedicab

Create Cherished Memories!

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is not merely a celebration of nature’s beauty but a testament to the enduring spirit of spring, renewal, and friendship. Whether you choose to wander along the Tidal Basin independently or embark on a guided tour, the splendor of these blossoms promises an unforgettable experience. At Jennifer Young Homes, we invite you to embrace the magic of the cherry blossoms and create cherished memories amidst their ephemeral beauty. If you are interested in making the DC-area your home, we can help! Reach out to us today at (703) 651-5655.

Read Next

Stay Cool This Summer: DMV Family Fun to Beat the Heat

Stay Cool This Summer: DMV Family Fun to Beat the Heat

Summer heat in the DMV is no joke—but there are so many local ways to stay cool and still have a blast with the family! From splashy water parks to engaging indoor museums, we’ve rounded up the best activities in Virginia, Maryland, and DC to help you beat the heat.

Light Up the DMV: Where to Watch Fireworks this 4th of July!

Light Up the DMV: Where to Watch Fireworks this 4th of July!

From all of us at Jennifer Young Homes—happy 4th of July! Whether you’re planning a night under the stars in the city or a community celebration close to home, there are tons of ways to celebrate Independence Day across DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

Summer Starts Here: DMV Happenings in June

Summer Starts Here: DMV Happenings in June

June in the DMV is bursting with energy—from outdoor concerts, cultural performances, and family-friendly fests to pro sports across DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Whether you’re entertaining out-of-town guests or exploring your own backyard, these events promise summer memories in the making.

Fresh Air & Lake Views: DMV Hiking Spots

Fresh Air & Lake Views: DMV Hiking Spots

Spring is in full bloom across the DMV, and there’s no better time to get outdoors and soak in the fresh air, sunshine, and stunning natural beauty all around us. Whether you’re a local homeowner or just settling into the area, Northern Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland are full of scenic trails—many with peaceful lakes, wooded paths, and biking options—that make staying active and enjoying nature easy and enjoyable.
Here’s a round-up of some of our favorite hiking and walking trails near lakes, with something for every fitness level.