Dustin Gandof
Springtime Beauty: Where to See Cherry Blossoms in the U.S.
1. Washington, D.C.
Undoubtedly, one of the most popular places to view cherry blossoms is in Washington, D.C. The National Mall, surrounded by the Tidal Basin and monuments, is a picturesque location for springtime visitors. The annual National Cherry Blossom Festival is a must-see event, bringing together cultural events, local cuisine, and a parade to celebrate the arrival of spring.
2. St. Louis, Missouri
If you’re in the Midwest, be sure to visit the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis. With over 200 cherry blossom trees, the garden is a sight to behold in the springtime. The “Sakura Sunday” festival, held in partnership with the Japanese Festival, is a weekend-long celebration of Japanese culture.
3. Seattle, Washington
The Pacific Northwest isn’t just known for its coffee and tech companies. In fact, Seattle boasts a stunning display of cherry blossom trees in the University of Washington’s quad. Plan a springtime visit to the campus and take a stroll through the breathtaking display of pink and white petals.
4. Brooklyn Botanic Garden, New York
If you’re on the East Coast, take a trip to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York. With over 200 cherry blossom trees, it’s a sight to see in the springtime. Don’t miss the annual Sakura Matsuri festival, complete with Japanese cultural performances, traditional tea ceremonies, and food vendors.
5. Portland, Oregon
The Portland Japanese Garden is a must-visit destination for cherry blossom enthusiasts. The garden boasts 12 cherry blossom trees, including the rare Shirofugen tree from Japan. Plan a visit in late March to early April for the best viewing experience.
6. Atlanta, Georgia
Georgia’s capital city is home to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, which features a stunning display of cherry blossom trees. The garden also hosts the “Atlanta Blooms” festival in the springtime, complete with live music, flower walks, and beautiful displays of tulips and daffodils.
7. San Francisco, California
The Bay Area is a beautiful location for viewing cherry blossom trees. Head to the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park for a peaceful and tranquil springtime stroll amongst the trees. Don’t miss the annual Cherry Blossom Festival in Japantown, complete with parades and traditional performances.
8. Nashville, Tennessee
Make your way to Music City for a visit to Cheekwood Estate and Gardens. With over 150 cherry blossom trees, the gardens are breathtaking during the springtime. Don’t miss the “Cheekwood in Bloom” festival, featuring art exhibits, live music, and a gorgeous display of tulips.
9. Newark, New Jersey
The Branch Brook Park is the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in the U.S. outside of Washington, D.C. With over 5,000 trees, it’s a must-see for cherry blossom enthusiasts. Plan a visit in mid-April for the annual Cherry Blossom Festival, complete with live music and food vendors.
10. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Morris Arboretum in Philadelphia is a stunning location for cherry blossom viewing. With over 70 cherry blossom trees, the arboretum is a beautiful and peaceful location for a springtime stroll. Don’t miss the weekly “Garden Discovery Series” in the spring, featuring guided tours and family-friendly activities.
11. Salt Lake City, Utah
The International Peace Gardens in Salt Lake City is a beautiful location for cherry blossom viewing. The garden boasts cherry blossom trees of different varieties and is a peaceful location year-round. Don’t miss the annual “Cherry Blossom Festival” in May, featuring traditional Japanese drumming and food vendors.
12. Rochester, New York
Rochester is home to Highland Park, which features over 1,200 cherry blossom trees. Plan a visit in late April or early May for peak viewing time. Don’t miss the “Lilac Festival” in May, featuring live music, food vendors, and a gorgeous display of lilacs.
Whether you’re on the East Coast, West Coast, or somewhere in between, there are plenty of stunning locations to view cherry blossom trees in the U.S. Take a springtime trip to one of these beautiful destinations for a peaceful and picturesque experience.
