Best places to view cherry blossoms that are NOT on the National Mall

Clearly a lot of families are looking to get outdoors because this post was very well received. We thought a post on where to view cherry blossoms without the crowds the Tidal Basin has may be useful. Cherry Blossom Watch is on and as of now the peak time will be March 20-24, 2020! However, if you are hoping to make it to the Cherry Blossom Festival be sure to visit the link for updated information before heading downtown as some events have been cancelled.

• The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception has over 150 trees.
• Dumbarton Oaks has a mixture of cherry species as well as other gorgeous spring blooms.
• US Arboretum has the trees but are spread out, but that’s the best part about heading here; room to roam!
• Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens Cherry trees surround the parking area and Visitor Center at Kenilworth Park where you can also enjoy birding along the boardwalk.
• Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, Maryland has about 30 cherry trees and other spring blooms at their garden.
• The neighborhood of Kenwood, Maryland has impressive tree-lined streets. However, this does get very crowded, so if dodging crowds ifs the goal, read on or go very early in the day.
• Van Gogh Bridge at Lake Anne in Reston has been on our list to visit. There are not many trees however the location on the bridge provides that most scenic and charming photos we see year after year.
• Rockville Civic Center Park and Glenview Mansion both have trees lining the drive to Glenview Mansion and around the Civic Center Park. You will also find a nature center, playground, and wooded nature walk if you want to extend the trip and stay longer.
• Did you know the 2nd largest collection of cherry blossom trees in DC are at Oxon Run Park?
• Stanton Park in Capitol Hill allows you to sit back, have a picnic and lay underneath a small collection of cherry trees.
• Of course you can walk along the Tidal Basin with the crowds or sit on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial and admire the blossoms from there. Grab sanitizing wipes and rent a paddle boat on the Tidal Basin.