Best Cherry Blossom Spots in DMV (Without the Crowds!)

I LOVE the cherry blossoms. The color. The flood of soft, pastel pink and white. What I don’t like? Crowds. Fighting to enjoy nature. Which makes DC very challenging this time of year!

The Tidal Basin is iconic and gorgeous and worth a trip at least once in your lifetime. However, it IS possible to soak in all that springtime beauty without the shoulder-to-shoulder experience. After much recon, here are my recommendations for the lesser-known cherry blossom spots where you can take in the magic without the masses.

1. The National Arboretum

This hidden gem in Northeast DC offers a stunning cherry blossom display and plenty of space to roam. With 446 acres of gardens, walking trails, and open fields, you can enjoy a peaceful stroll under the blossoms without having to weave through a crowd. Plus, the different varieties of cherry trees here bloom at slightly different times, so you might catch peak bloom even if you miss the Tidal Basin’s!
Note: Commercial photography is not allowed at the Arboretum :(

Where: 3501 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC

2. Dumbarton Oaks

Tucked away in Georgetown, Dumbarton Oaks is one of the city’s best-kept secrets when it comes to cherry blossoms. The gardens here are immaculately maintained, with winding paths that make for the perfect serene escape. There is an entrance fee, but that also helps keep the crowds to a minimum.
Note: Commercial photography is not allowed at Dumbarton Oaks. Sigh.

Where: 1703 32nd St NW, Washington, DC

3. Hains Point (East Potomac Park)

Just down the way from the Tidal Basin, East Potomac Park is lined with cherry trees along the water, offering spectacular views without the congestion. This is still tricky to get to (traffic beware!), but there is a better chance for parking. You can take a leisurely bike ride, go for a jog, or just sit on a bench and take it all in—without battling for elbow room!

Where: 972 Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC

4. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

If you’re looking for cherry blossoms in a more peaceful, reflective setting, this is a great spot. The grounds of the Basilica are home to several cherry trees, and the towering architecture makes for a unique backdrop for your spring photos.

Where: 400 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC

5. CONGRESSIONAL CEMETERY

I know a cemetery doesn’t seem like the right place to enjoy cherry blossoms, but I promise it’s worth it. It’s a gorgeous and well kept cemetery with the beautiful imagery of life and death all in one. These beauties typically bloom before peak bloom. Lots of room to take in and enjoy at this peaceful place!

Where: 1801 E St SE, Washington, DC 20003

6. Brookside Gardens in Maryland

One of my personal favorites…located in Wheaton, this 50-acre public garden features beautifully landscaped grounds, winding pathways, and a variety of flowering trees, including stunning cherry blossoms. It’s a peaceful retreat where you can take in spring’s beauty without the typical crowds of DC’s more famous spots.
Note: Commercial photography is allowed, but you must get an advance permit ($50)

Where: 1800 Glenallan Ave, Wheaton, MD

7. Kenwood Neighborhood in Maryland

I looooovvee the Kenwood neighborhood in Bethesda. With over 1,200 cherry trees lining its streets, Kenwood transforms into a breathtaking tunnel of pink and white blooms each spring. It’s one of the most stunning cherry blossom displays in the area, and while it’s no secret to locals, it’s far less crowded than the Tidal Basin—especially on weekday mornings. Note that it IS a residential neighborhood and they don’t allow street parking. So parking just outside and requires a bit of walking.

Where: Kenwood, Bethesda, MD

8. Stanton Park in DC

For a peaceful cherry blossom experience right in the city, Staunton Park is a wonderful hidden treasure. This small, lesser-known park is home to a lovely collection of cherry trees, offering a quiet, neighborhood feel. It’s perfect for a stroll, a picnic, or just soaking in the beauty of the season without the overwhelming crowds.

Where: 6th Street NE / 4th Street NE Washington DC

9. Glenview Mansion in Maryland

Located in Rockville, Glenview Mansion’s elegant grounds feature stunning cherry trees that add a touch of charm to this historic estate. The manicured gardens and open lawns make it a perfect spot for enjoying cherry blossoms in a tranquil, picturesque setting.
Note: they do not allow commercial photography

📍 Where: 603 Edmonston Dr, Rockville, MD

10. McCrillis Gardens in Maryland

For a quiet and charming cherry blossom experience, McCrillis Gardens in Bethesda is a hidden gem. This five-acre woodland garden is filled with flowering trees, winding paths, and peaceful sitting areas, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the cherry blossoms away from the crowds. It’s a beautiful place for a stroll and a moment of springtime serenity.
Note: McGrillis Gardens is owned by Brookside Gardens, so also requires a permit for commercial photography

Where: 6910 Greentree Rd, Bethesda, MD

Pro Tips for Beating the Crowds

• Go early! Even at popular spots, early mornings are much quieter and offer the best light for photos.

• Weekdays over weekends. If you can visit mid-week, you’ll have a much more peaceful experience.

• Skip peak bloom weekend. Everyone flocks to see the blossoms at their peak, but going a few days before or after can still be gorgeous and far less crowded.

Spring in DC is meant to be enjoyed, and with these hidden gems, you can take in all the cherry blossom beauty—without the chaos. So grab your camera, take a deep breath, and soak it all in at your own pace! (or invite me along for a photoshoot!)

Cherry Blossoms at the Tidal Basin | Washington DC

They are here!!! And I love them. So much.

Do you need to go to the Tidal Basin to enjoy the cherry blossoms? Definitely not. There are so many beautiful local spots that are a little quieter and closer to home. (just ask me, I know a lot!)

But did I still wake up at 5 AM on my day off to see them in peak bloom at the Basin? Yes. And honestly—it was so worth it.

There’s something about those trees, all blooming together in one place, reflected in the water with the monuments in the background… I just love it. And it make me appreciate this great and unique city of DC. (despite, you know...)

Even without an epic sunrise (thanks, clouds), it was warm, peaceful, and somehow easy—no traffic, no parking drama. (remember, this involved getting there before sunrise!). Definitely a TON of people, but to be expected.
Here is just a sampling. (I know, I took sooooo many!!)

Visit Kenwood, Maryland for Stunning Cherry Blossoms in the Spring

Recently, I had a photo session in the Kenwood neighborhood in Maryland during cherry blossom season, and I got there early to check out these lovely blooms!

Cherry Blossom Season: If you’re looking for a place to see cherry blossoms and want to avoid the Tidal Basin crowds, Kenwood is a hidden gem. It’s the perfect spot for cherry blossom photography, leisurely strolls, or just to experience the beauty of spring in Maryland.

Why Visit Kenwood for Cherry Blossoms?: Kenwood’s streets are lined with over 1,200 cherry trees, transforming the area into a pink wonderland. The best part? It’s less crowded, allowing you to enjoy the cherry blossoms in peace. Whether you can’t stop taking photos of them (like me) or just want to appreciate their beauty, Kenwood during cherry blossom peak bloom is worth it.

A note on parking: The tough part is parking. Since this IS a neighborhood and these are people’s streets and houses and property, there are signs everywhere asking you not to park on the street, and I get it. The residents are trying to live there and don’t need it packed with a million cars. It would also take away from the beauty of the tree-lined streets! So it may require parking in surrounding areas and walking or getting a car ride service to drop you off!

Making the Most of Your Visit: To fully enjoy Kenwood’s cherry blossoms, I recommend visiting on a weekday morning to avoid any potential crowds. I was there in the afternoon toward the end of the season and it was not that crowded.

Looking Forward to Cherry Blossom Season: Every year, the cherry blossom festival in the area attracts visitors, but there’s something special about discovering the quiet charm of Kenwood. I’m already excited to go back next spring for more photos and peaceful walks among the blossoms.

If you’re planning on taking in the cherry blossoms, add Kenwood, Maryland, to your list. It’s a perfect place for anyone looking to experience the beauty of cherry blossoms without the crowds.