Great Ways to See Cherry Blossom in Washington D.C

Every year, Washington D.C. hosts the National Cherry Blossom Festival from March 26 to April 10.Tourists from all over the U.S. swarm the Tidal Basin for one of the most gorgeous natural extravaganza. It's one crazy time in the Nation's Capital. However, travelers who wish to avoid the mayhem have access to several off-the-beaten venues in Washington D.C.In addition, special guided tours and cruise are great options to explore the beauty of cherry blossoms without visiting the Tidal Basin.

Best Ways to See the National Cherry Blossom in and around Washington D.C

Visit The United States National Arboretum

With over 76 varieties of cherry trees, the National Arboretum is a great venue to beat the crowd and explore the cherry trees. Located in the northeast part of Washington D.C., the arboretum is ten minutes from the Capitol. The Arboretum opens everyday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free. Guests can explore the 446-acre campus by bus, car, bike or by foot. A special tram service is also available. Feel free to bring your picnic baskets and enjoy a meal on the east terrace or at the picnic area at the National Grove of State Trees. Free ample parking is the much-needed cherry on the top!

3501 New York Ave
Washington D.C., DC 20002
(202) 245-2726

Visit The Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

Ninety-five acre of gorgeous area at the Meadowlark Botanical Garden offers walking trails, lakes, gazebos and a shade garden. Forego the Tidal Basin and enjoy more than twenty varieties of cherry trees. The botanical garden opens from 10 a.m. until 6p.m. in March, and until 7 p.m. in April. Single admission fee ranges from $2.50 to $5.

9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court ,
Vienna, VA 22182
(703) 255-3631 ‎

Visit The Anacostia Park

Operated by the United States National Park Service, Anacostia Park is one of Washington, D.C.'s largest and most important recreation areas, along the Anacostia River. Guests have access to miles of river shore, an 18-hole golf course, picnic areas and walking trails. The park opens daily from 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

Take A Lunch/Dinner Cruise

Along with these out-of-the-ordinary spots to explore the National Cherry Blossom, guests also have access to several lunch and dinner cruises. Enjoy a gorgeous view of the cherry trees from the water, while you dine on chef-inspired dishes and partake in wonderful entertainment.

Partake in a Bike Tour

For the intrepid unwilling to participate in an extensive lunch cruise may partake in a bike tour. The 2-hour guided trip focuses on the beauty of the cherry blossoms along the Potomac Tidal Basin to East Potomac Park. The 7-mile moderate bike ride is available from March 26 to April 10 from 12p.m. and 3p.m.

Book a Segway Tour

Participate in one of the most entertaining ways to explore Washington D.C. during the cherry blossoms. Segway, the two-wheeled self balancing vehicle will allow you to experience nature upfront without being lost in the crowd. Riders should be 16 or older.

Source(s):
Washingtonian.com: Cherry Blossom Guide