Tips for Cherry Blossom Season in D.C.

It’s April, which means it’s Cherry Blossom season in Washington, D.C. Since as early as 1912 people have been traveling from all over the world to get a glimpse of these beautiful blossoms. And with each new bloom comes a new massive (and I mean, massive) crowd of visitors – not to mention non-stop events and an Instagram feed existing solely off of photos of the Tidal Basin.

It’s true, there is an undeniable beauty that is synonymous with April in D.C., but here also lies a world of stress that Washingtonians are conditioned to endure. So, without further adieu, I give you five ways to make the most of this crazy, beautiful season:

1.    Get up with the sun: If you can, always go see the cherry blossoms at sunrise. The crowds at this time of day will seem non-existent compared to later times of day.

2.    Explore! There’s no lack of cherry blossom trees in D.C. Don’t get me wrong, the Tidal Basin is beautiful, but don’t be afraid to try somewhere new. Arlington National Cemetery, Georgetown, the United States National Arboretum, or Stanton Park on Capitol Hill are all great spots if you haven’t been.

3.    Whatever you do, avoid driving. Traffic is absymal and infuriating during the Cherry Blossom Festival!

4.    If you bike, know how to bike — dodging an inexperienced tourist is no easy feat, if you can do this, you’re in good shape.

5.    Bring your social media A game – people do not mess around with #cherryblossom pictures!

Made a few mistakes this cherry blossom season? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there – lucky for us, there’s always next year.

(Photo: Cherry Blossom Festival 34 by flickr user IIP Photo Archive via Attribution 2.0 License)