Dustin Gandof
Cherry blossoms are a natural indication of the arrival of spring and have become a symbol of new beginnings. While Washington D.C. is undoubtedly the most popular destination for cherry blossom viewing in the United States, there are many other cities where you can witness these beautiful blooms. In this article, we will explore 12 cities beyond Washington that are worth visiting during cherry blossom season.
1. Salem, Oregon
Salem is undoubtedly one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in the USA, particularly at the Oregon State Capitol. The Capitol is home to stunning cherry blossom trees that bloom in early spring each year. Besides, visitors can enjoy various events celebrating the arrival of the cherry blossoms in the city.
2. Macon, Georgia
Macon is home to more than 350,000 cherry blossom trees that make it one of the best places to view cherry blossoms outside of Japan. The town’s International Cherry Blossom Festival draws thousands of tourists each year to witness its pink and white blooms.
3. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is another fantastic city to explore cherry blossoms. Visitors can see the cherry blossom trees at Golden Gate Park and the Japanese Tea Garden. Both locations offer stunning backdrops for cherry blossom viewing, while the garden also hosts a cherry blossom festival each year.
4. Brooklyn, New York
If you’re looking for cherry blossoms in New York City, you’ll want to head to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. This beautiful garden is home to more than 200 cherry blossom trees, including several rare varieties. The garden also holds an annual Sakura Matsuri festival that celebrates the arrival of the cherry blossoms.
5. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, famous for its music, doesn’t disappoint if you’re looking for Cherry Blossoms. The city features over 1,000 cherry blossom trees and holds an annual Cherry Blossom festival. Highlights of the festival include live music, Japanese food, and art, among others.
6. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is known as the City of Brotherly Love, but during Cherry Blossom season, the city is covered with a sea of pink and white hues. The cherry blossom trees can be seen around Fairmount Park’s historic Shofuso Japanese House and Garden.
7. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach is one of the most unexpected cities to see cherry blossom trees in the U.S. The city is home to many cherry blossom trees that bloom in late March and early April. Visit First Landing State Park, which features a beautiful cherry tree grove, to enjoy the best views.
8. Buffalo, New York
Buffalo city is one of the best locations to explore cherry blossoms, occasionally referred to as the “cherry tree capital of the United States.” Buffalo offers different sites to see the cherry trees, including Japanese Garden and Delaware Park.
9. Dallas, Texas
Dallas isn’t usually the first city that comes to mind when you think of Cherry Blossoms, but the city has over 50 cherry blossom trees that bloom anytime between mid-February and mid-March, depending on the weather. Visit the Dallas Arboretum during this period to catch a glimpse of the city’s Cherry blossoms.
10. Newark, New Jersey
Newark is known for one of the oldest and most significant cherry blossom groves in the national park system. The city is also home to Branch Brook Park, which is famous for hosting the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in the world.
11. St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is another city with fantastic cherry blossom trees. Visitors can enjoy the cherry blossoms at the Missouri Botanical Garden or Tower Grove Park. Both locations feature beautiful cherry blossom trees and offer a serene environment to enjoy the blooms.
12. Seattle, Washington
Finally, we wrap up our list with Seattle, which is home to the University of Washington. The university’s campus features one of the most breathtaking cherry blossom displays in the Pacific Northwest each spring. The quad (or Central Plaza) is home to around 31 Yoshino cherry trees that offer stunning views.
In conclusion, while Washington, D.C., might be the most famous destination for cherry blossom viewing in the United States, these 12 cities offer fantastic alternatives for experiencing the beauty of cherry blossoms outside of the nation’s capital. So, why not plan a visit to one of these 12 cities this spring and immerse yourself in the pink and white hues of cherry blossoms.
