Forget about heading to Japan to see the cherry blossoms; you can see them right here in the USA, and we’re going to share with you some of the best places to see them.
Visiting Japan to see the cherry blossoms is a bucket list dream of mine. When I last visited Tokyo, I took Madison to Tokyo Disneyland in the fall. I fell in love with Tokyo and decided that I would be paying it another visit, but during the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Japan is well-known for its spectacular cherry blossom festivals, which attract a large number of visitors each year.
You may be surprised to know that you don’t have to travel internationally to fulfill your dream of experiencing a cherry blossom festival. It does not have to be realized in Japan. The US is home to some of the most beautiful cherry blossom displays, and at times, it can even rival Japan’s famous display!
Don’t believe me? Here are the top destinations to see cherry blossoms in the USA.
Washington, D.C.
Best Time to Visit: Around April 4th
In Washington, D.C., visitors can enjoy the famous National Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place each spring along the banks of the Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park. It’s estimated that over 1.5 million people come from around the world to witness this breathtaking event annually. Visitors can explore this natural beauty while also taking in some of the city’s historical landmarks, such as the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial. Other popular spots include the National Mall, Tidal Basin, and Capitol Hill. At the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which happens every year in the spring, people can enjoy a variety of cultural events and activities.
San Francisco, California
Best Time to Visit: Around Late March
The City by the Bay is home to an incredible array of cultural attractions and activities. But one of its most stunning natural wonders are the cherry blossom trees that line the streets of Japan Town, and bloom each spring. San Francisco’s cherry blossoms are especially breathtaking due to their deep pink-white hue and the fact that they blanket the entire city in a magical, ethereal haze. Located in San Francisco’s Japantown district, visitors can witness this magical sight while also enjoying some delicious Japanese food and taking part in festivities at the annual Cherry Blossom Festival.
New York City, New York
Best Time to Visit: Around April 20th
The Big Apple is home to some of the most iconic attractions renowned throughout the world. But what many visitors don’t know is that New York City also has its own set of cherry blossom trees scattered throughout its boroughs. From Central Park to Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and even Prospect Park, visitors can take full advantage of this natural beauty while enjoying a delightful picnic or capturing the perfect selfie with their friends and family.
Seattle, Washington
Best Time to Visit: Around Late March
Seattle is one of the few cities that experiences all four seasons with a vibrant display of colors during springtime due to its abundance of cherry blossom trees. Seattle is known for its evergreen forests and lush greenery, but during the springtime it’s also a great destination for seeing cherry blossoms. Seattle offers numerous areas for people to enjoy these delicate flowers, such as the University of Washington Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, where visitors can explore more than 500 acres of vast gardens and plants with their friends and family. Other popular spots include the International Fountain in Seattle Center and Volunteer Park in Capitol Hill. From the University of Washington Quad to the cherry blossoms lining Gasworks Park, visitors can come and witness this stunning sight while also enjoying a variety of activities in Seattle.
Portland, Oregon
Best Time to Visit: Around Late March
Portland is one of the most beautiful cities in the Pacific Northwest, and it’s also known for having some of the best places to view cherry blossoms. From downtown Portland, visitors can take a leisurely stroll along Tom McCall Waterfront Park, which offers gorgeous views of both Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens. Other popular spots include Lan Su Chinese Garden, Washington Park, Peninsula Park Rose Garden, and more. Visitors can enjoy this natural beauty while also indulging in some of the city’s favorite activities, such as kayaking on the Willamette River or grabbing a bite at one of Portland’s many food carts.
Nashville, Tennessee
Best Time to Visit: Around Mid-March
Nashville is known for its country music, but the city also offers plenty of opportunities to see stunning cherry blossoms each spring. The Vanderbilt Women’s Garden, located on the Vanderbilt University campus, is home to some of the most beautiful trees in Nashville. Other cherry blossom hotspots include Centennial Park, Warner Parks, and Radnor Lake State Park. Visitors can also take part in special events like the annual Nashville Cherry Blossoms Festival or simply enjoy a stroll along the banks of the Cumberland River while taking in this breathtaking view.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Best Time to Visit: Around April 11th
Philadelphia is known for its historical landmarks, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. But the city is also home to some spectacular cherry blossom trees that bloom each spring. From Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Fairmount Park to Bartram’s Garden and Longwood Gardens, visitors can explore this natural beauty while also taking in some of Philadelphia’s other famous attractions. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities during the annual Shofuso Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia, which features live music, family-friendly activities, food trucks, and more.
Boston, Massachusetts
Best Time to Visit: Around Early May
The City on the Hill offers plenty of opportunities to see gorgeous cherry blossoms each spring. From the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University to the Esplanade along the Charles River, visitors can witness this stunning sight while also taking in some of Boston’s other famous attractions. In addition to its many parks and gardens, visitors can take a stroll along the Freedom Trail or visit one of the city’s many museums and galleries. While there is no dedicated festival to celebrate the blossoming of the cherry trees on the Esplanade, it is a beautiful place for a stroll, a picnic, or even a kayak ride when the blossoms are in bloom.
St. Louis, Missouri
Best Time to Visit: Around Mid-April
St. Louis is known for its iconic Gateway Arch and historic neighborhoods, but the city also offers plenty of opportunities to take in some stunning cherry blossom trees each spring. Visitors can explore beautiful Koster Park and Tower Grove Park, which are home to dozens of cherry blossom trees that bloom around mid-April. Other popular spots include Webster Groves Nature Sanctuary and Creve Coeur Park, both of which offer breathtaking views during this time of year. Whether visitors come to explore the city’s history or take part in its many festivals and events, St. Louis is the perfect destination for travelers looking to witness nature at its finest.
Dallas, Texas
Best Time to Visit: Mid-Late March
The Lone Star State offers plenty of opportunities to witness the beauty of cherry blossoms each spring. From Fair Park in downtown Dallas to White Rock Lake, visitors can explore this natural wonder while also immersing themselves in some of Dallas’ other attractions. Other popular spots include Arbor Hills Nature Preserve and Klyde Warren Park, both of which feature stunning views of the skyline during bloom season. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities, such as shopping at NorthPark Center or visiting one of the city’s many museums and galleries.
In Conclusion
So if you’re looking to escape to a place filled with beauty this spring season, then consider visiting one of these top destinations in the USA that are perfect for witnessing the beautiful cherry blossoms. Overall, these destinations are some of the best places to see cherry blossoms in the USA. Whether it’s for a day trip or an extended vacation, you won’t be disappointed with any of these locations. From Washington, D.C., to Portland, each city offers something special that you won’t want to miss out on during the springtime. Be sure to plan your trip accordingly and bring your camera so you can capture this vibrant moment for years to come. So go ahead and plan your next cherry blossom getaway today!
