As spring prepares to unfurl its showy colors across the United States, one spectacle stands out for its fleeting beauty and cultural significance — cherry blossom season. From the iconic blooms around the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC, to equally stunning displays in cities that may surprise you, the United States offers a diverse palette of places to enjoy these pink and white wonders. Discover some of the best US cities to experience the magic of cherry blossoms, each with its unique backdrop of these enchanting trees.
Newark, NJ
Washington, DC, might be the most famous cherry blossom city on the East Coast, but New Jersey has more cherry trees. Each spring, over 5,000 trees bloom in a spectacular display of pink and white in Newark’s Branch Brook Park creating a cherry blossom wonderland. Beyond the blossoms, Newark offers rich cultural experiences, including the Newark Museum of Art and the vibrant Ironbound neighborhood, known for its outstanding Portuguese cuisine.
Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park celebrates spring with over 1,000 cherry trees, a testament to the city’s strong ties with Japan. The Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival here is a cultural highlight. Visitors can also explore the historic sites of Philadelphia, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, or enjoy the city’s thriving food scene.
Boston
The Charles River Esplanade in Boston becomes particularly enchanting when its cherry trees are in bloom. This scenic area provides a perfect backdrop for springtime strolls. Boston is also steeped in American history, with the Freedom Trail, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, and JFK’s birthplace.
Washington, DC
The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC, draws visitors from around the world to admire the Tidal Basin’s cherry trees. Gifted by Japan in 1912, these trees symbolize friendship and renewal. DC is also home to iconic landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian, making it a city rich in both beauty and history.
Nashville
Nashville’s cherry blossom festival highlights the city’s commitment to Japanese-American friendship, with over 1,000 trees planted throughout the city. Nashville isn’t just about blossoms; it’s also the heart of country music, home to the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Macon, GA
Located about 85 miles southeast of Atlanta, Macon is known as the “Cherry Blossom Capital of the World,” with a jaw-dropping 350,000 Yoshino cherry trees. The International Cherry Blossom Festival here is a vibrant celebration of spring. Macon also offers historic Southern charm, with landmarks like the Hay House and the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park.
Athens, OH
Athens, OH, is adorned with cherry blossoms each spring, especially around the Ohio University campus. This small town offers a peaceful retreat with its blossoms. Beyond the blooms, Athens is known for its vibrant local food scene and the scenic Hocking Hills State Park nearby.
Cincinnati
With more than 1,000 cherry blossom trees, the Queen City is a jewel of a spot to see stunning blooms. Beyond the beautiful blooms at Eden Park and Ault Park, Cincinnati is full of fantastic things to see and do, from the Cincinnati Museum Center to the historic Over-the-Rhine district, known for its impressive 19th-century architecture and bustling market.
Chicago
Designed by Olmsted and Vaux, the dynamic duo behind New York’s Central Park, the Japanese Garden on Wooded Island is a breathtaking spot to welcome spring. Beyond the tranquil Japanese garden, Chicago offers architectural river cruises, Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck Chicago, and Millennium Park, home to the famous “Bean.”
St. Louis
The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis features a breathtaking Japanese Garden, where cherry blossoms create a serene landscape. In fact, some of the trees in the Japanese Garden are cuttings from the original trees gifted to Washington, DC, by Japan in 1912. St. Louis is also known for the iconic Gateway Arch, its own style of pizza, and its vibrant blues music scene.
Seattle
The University of Washington Quad is renowned for its Yoshino cherry trees, making it a popular spot for springtime visits. Seattle’s attractions extend beyond its blooms, with the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the thriving coffee culture offering plenty to explore.
Portland, OR
Portland’s Waterfront Park and the Japanese American Historical Plaza are adorned with cherry blossoms each spring. Portland is celebrated for its lush parks, innovative food scene, and the nearby Columbia River Gorge, offering breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities. It’s also the gateway to the Willamette Valley, Oregon’s wine country.
San Francisco
The Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival in San Francisco’s Japantown is one of the largest in the US, celebrating Japanese culture and the beauty of cherry blossoms. San Francisco’s iconic sights, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and its historic cable cars, make it a must-visit city year-round.
