how to see the cherry blossoms in washington, dc

What time of year are the DC cherry blossoms (usually)?

The capital's cherry blossom season is famously temperamental. The city is said to be in "peak bloom" when 70% of the cherry trees are actively blooming, and this can happen anywhere from March 15 to April 18, lasting for only a few days.

Our best advice to anyone hoping to view the cherry blossoms is to keep your dates flexible. We allow you to move your dates on all RV site bookings for free at Cherry Hill Park, so you can make sure you’re here at just the right time.

When are the cherry blossoms this year?

More precise forecasts of the year's peak bloom will begin to appear near the end of February and early March. For up-to-date bloom predictions each year, check out this cherry blossom guide. Forecasts will shift as the date of peak bloom moves closer, and become more accurate within a week or so of peak bloom.

Don't worry if your timing's a little off - though "peak bloom" only lasts for a few days, blooms are still beautiful for 1-2 weeks, and the National Cherry Blossom Festival runs from late March to mid-April.

Where do I go downtown to see the cherry blossoms in Washington, DC?

The best place to see Washington, DC’s cherry trees is near the Tidal Basin, a particularly scenic part of the National Mall downtown. The Metro serves several stations close by. If you’re taking the yellow or green lines (these are the lines closest to Cherry Hill Park), the closest Metro station to the cherry blossoms is L’Enfant Plaza.

How do I get to the Tidal Basin?

If you’re traveling to see the blossoms from Cherry Hill Park, you’re only about 11 miles away (we’re located in central Maryland). You can take a direct trip downtown on our Express Bus, which starts up in spring each year.

If you’d prefer to use public transit, we recommend that you from our on-site bus depot to nearby College Park Metro Station. You can also drive and park at the Metro station. Here’s a more detailed guide to taking the Metro.

Is it worth it?

Yes! Planning is tricky, but the array of blossoms is truly breath-taking, and the National Cherry Blossom Festival only adds to the fun, with free displays and shows on the National Mall.