5 places to see the cherry blossoms in Washington, DC

With its stately architecture and sweeping boulevards, the nation’s capital is a photogenic city any time of year. But between March and April, when thousands upon thousands of cherry trees burst into bloom, Washington, DC takes on a particularly alluring blush-colored hue. The occasion is so striking that roughly a million visitors grab their cameras and pour into the Tidal Basin. The first National Cherry Blossom Festival was held in 1934, but the celebration’s roots go all the way back to 1912, when Yukio Ozaki, the mayor of Tokyo, donated more than 3,000 sakura saplings to the city as a gesture of goodwill. Though relations between the two countries would wither and then once again flourish in the coming decades, the trees stood the test of time and are now one of the city’s most beloved symbols. Whether you live on Capitol Hill or across the country, the springtime spectacle more than merits a journey. Request a ride with Uber and make your way to one or all of these picturesque spots for perfect cherry blossom viewing. 1. Tidal Basin Yes, you may have to elbow your way through thousands of other blossom-peepers, but the view—a collection of the country’s most significant monuments surrounded by a multitude of sakura blossoms—is not to be missed. To capture that trophy Instagram shot at the Tidal Basin, go as early in the morning as possible to stake out a prime location. 2. Anacostia Park Situated along the Anacostia River, this sprawling green space boasts plenty of petals, not to mention a full 18-hole golf course and three marinas. Admission to Anacostia Park won’t cost you a dime, and it’s easy to spend a whole afternoon ambling along the area’s nature walks. While this gorgeous expanse is a favorite of in-the-know locals, it remains mercifully low-key, making it ideal for families with little ones in tow. 3. Foxhall Village When locals want to savor the seasonal beauty without the throngs of tourists, they head to this elegant neighborhood near Georgetown. With its graceful mansions and abundance of trees, it makes for a stunning alternative to the Tidal Basin. An Uber ride will transport you from downtown to this lesser-known haven in a flash. 4. United States National Arboretum With free admission for all ages, this spot makes for a dreamy afternoon in the early-spring sunshine. Unfortunately, the United States National Arboretum also happens to be one of the most popular places, so you’ll want to go on the early side or on a weekday to dodge the considerable crowds. 5. Stanton Park Conveniently located in the Capitol Hill area, four-acre Stanton Park is popular with politicians and lobbyists seeking a little serenity on their lunch breaks. It may not be quite as large as some of the other green spaces on the city’s outskirts, but the well-groomed paths, manicured lawns, and flower beds make it suitably scenic. Pack a picnic and spend a lazy Sunday soaking in the sights.