How To See Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC With Kids 2025
Every spring, Washington D.C. transforms into a wonderland as cherry blossoms bloom around the city. For families, it’s a magical time to enjoy nature and explore the nation’s capital.
Last spring, we were lucky to see cherry blossoms in Washington DC with kids when we attended the National Cherry Blossom Festival. It was an incredible experience.
From festival events like Kite Day to the best family-friendly tips, there are lots of ways to make the experience less stressful (hello DC crowds) and more kid friendly. Below, I share all of the information that I wish I would have known before seeing cherry blossoming in DC with kids.
When to Visit to See Cherry Blossoms
The cherry blossoms typically bloom in late March to early April, with the “peak bloom” lasting only a few days. However, don’t worry if you can’t catch the exact peak—there are still plenty of blossoms to enjoy before and after, and the festive atmosphere remains vibrant throughout the season.
The National Park Service (NPS) releases a peak bloom forecast every year starting in late February. Check their website to help you plan your visit. A good rule of thumb is to aim for late March or the first week of April and remain flexible, as nature can be unpredictable!
Pro Tip: If you want to beat the crowds, visit the Tidal Basin early in the morning, preferably on a weekday. The morning light makes for gorgeous photos, and your kids can explore more freely before the area fills with visitors.
Last year, we went to the Tidal Basin at sunset and it was so crowded with many people there taking in the beautiful views of the blossoms in full bloom. We found a little tree to take some photos of the kids with the cherry blossoms, when a full wind storm happened. It was SO windy, we could barely see.
Where to see Cherry Blossoms
- Tidal Basin: The most well known (and crowded) area for viewing cherry blossoms. This area features over 3,000 cherry trees and iconic views of the Jefferson Memorial. It’s busy, but breathtaking.
- National Mall: A great place to combine blossom viewing with visits to Smithsonian museums, which are free and perfect for kids needing a break. There are many cherry blossom trees near the Washington Monument.
- Hains Point Loop Trail: This scenic area along the Potomac River is quieter and perfect for families with strollers or bikes.
- National Arboretum: Less crowded than the Tidal Basin, the Arboretum offers wide open spaces, stunning blossoms, and the added bonus of the Capitol Columns.
Don’t Miss The Kite Festival
One of the highlights of cherry blossom season is the Kite Festival, a family-friendly event held on the National Mall. This festival is a fantastic event for kids to attend, there is a lot to see and do.
Families gather with colorful kites of all shapes and sizes to celebrate the season. If you don’t have a kite, don’t worry—you can pick one up from a local shop or purchase one before your trip. There are also kite-making stations, live demonstrations, and plenty of space for your little ones to run around.
We attended the Kite Festival last year, and it was a huge hit. Both kids were mesmerized by the giant kites floating against the backdrop of the Washington Monument and it was fun to play games such as trying to spot the highest flying kite.
Tips for Visiting with Young Kids
Traveling with little ones doesn’t have to be stressful and preparation is key. Here are some tips to make your cherry blossom adventure enjoyable for everyone:
- Pack Essentials: Bring snacks, water, sunscreen, a picnic blanket, and a lightweight stroller or carrier. The Tidal Basin has some uneven paths, so if you’re bringing a stroller, make sure it can handle some bumps. Also, be aware that certain times can be VERY crowded, it was sometimes hard to navigate with a stroller. If you and your little one are up for it, I’d recommend a baby carrier, this is my favorite one for traveling.
- Plan for Breaks: Museums like the National Museum of Natural History or the National Air and Space Museum are great nearby options if your family is up for exploring. If sitting in the grass is more your speed, there are lots of places along the Tidal Basin, Wharf, or National Mall to have a snack break and rest in the grass.
- Start Early: Arrive before 9 a.m. to avoid crowds. Early mornings are also cooler and calmer, perfect for families with toddlers.
- Public Transit: Parking near the Tidal Basin is extremely limited. I strongly recommend taking public transit, the metro system is easy to navigate but can be VERY crowded during cherry blossom season. One parent told me she was waiting over an hour to use the elevator at the Smithsonian metro stop during the Kite Festival. If you can, I’d highly recommend baby wearing to avoid having to wait for the elevator.
- Interactive Activities: Keep kids engaged by turning the visit into a scavenger hunt. Challenge them to spot a certain thing or count how many kites they see at the festival. For instance, my 5 year old and I were challenged to see who could spot the tree with the fluffiest cherry blossoms in bloom or the kite that was flying the highest.
- Bathrooms and Snacks: Restrooms near the Tidal Basin can get busy, so plan pit stops at nearby museums or cafes. Don’t forget to pack snacks for hungry kiddos ( and grown ups). There are permanent restrooms around the Washington Monument, but they often have long lines. There are also Porta Potties set up around the Washington Monument.
- Online Resources for Kids: Check the National Park Services kids activity page for coloring pages, art contests, science experiments and more.
Pro Tip: Can’t make it to the cherry blossom festival in person? Check out their virtual sightseeing and watch the cherry blossoms bloom on camera here.
How to Make It Extra Special
- Picnic Under the Blossoms: Pack a lunch and find a cozy spot to relax. Kids will love playing under the falling petals.
- Blossom Crafts: Bring along a small notebook and crayons for kids to sketch the blossoms or collect fallen petals for keepsakes.
- Photoshoots: Capture sweet family moments against the backdrop of the pink blooms. Morning light is especially flattering for photos.
- Check Local Restaurants: Many local restaurants will have cherry blossom specials. We found cherry blossom ice cream that was delicious at an ice cream shop at the Wharf Waterfront.
Avoiding Crowds: Hidden Gems
If the Tidal Basin feels overwhelming, there are plenty of quieter spots where you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in Washington DC with kids.
One of our favorites is the National Arboretum, which features stunning cherry trees scattered across its expansive grounds. This location is perfect for families because there’s ample space for kids to roam freely without the worry of navigating through dense crowds. Plus, the Arboretum is home to unique attractions like the Capitol Columns and the Bonsai Museum, making it a great place to extend your visit beyond just the blossoms.
Another hidden gem is Hains Point, located in East Potomac Park. This scenic spot offers gorgeous cherry blossoms along a peaceful stretch by the Potomac River. It’s stroller-friendly and has picnic areas where you can enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the views.
Hains Point is also home to a playground, making it an ideal location for families with younger kids who need to burn off energy. Arriving early in the day is key to having these serene spots mostly to yourself.
Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions
If you’re planning to spend more time in Washington, DC, with your family, you’ll find no shortage of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained. To help you make the most of your visit, I’ve put together a comprehensive guide filled with kid-friendly recommendations that our family has personally experienced during our time living in the DMV (District, Maryland, Virginia area).
In the guide, you’ll find details about museums that cater to young explorers, like the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum, both of which have interactive exhibits perfect for kids. We also highlight lesser-known treasures like the Renwick Gallery and the National Postal Museum.
For meals, we provide recommendations for family-friendly restaurants, from quick eats near major attractions to sit-down spots where kids are welcomed with open arms. If you’re interested in guided experiences, the guide includes tours tailored for families, like the hop-on, hop-off bus tours that allow you to explore DC’s top attractions without the hassle of excessive walking.
With this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to make your family’s time in Washington, DC, both memorable and stress-free.
Cultural Connection Questions
At Full Passport Family, we believe travel is about more than just seeing the sights—it’s a chance to foster deeper connections, spark curiosity, and create opportunities for lifelong learning. These questions are designed to help families go beyond surface-level experiences, encouraging thoughtful conversations that build empathy, understanding, and a genuine appreciation for the places and people you encounter.
Unlike many travel blogs that focus solely on logistics, we’re here to help you and your children engage meaningfully with the world, raising resilient, compassionate global citizens along the way. Use these below questions throughout your visit to see cherry blossoms in Washington DC to reflect, learn, and connect as a family.
🌸 What do cherry blossoms remind you of when you see them? Why do you think people love them so much?
Imagine walking under trees filled with pink and white flowers. How would you feel? What would you want to do there?
🌸 Have you ever seen or smelled flowers like cherry blossoms? What do they remind you of?
Think about flowers you’ve seen in your neighborhood or park. Are there any that make you happy or that you want to learn more about?
🌸 Why do you think cherry blossoms bloom for such a short time? What does that make you think about?
Imagine if your favorite thing—like ice cream or a rainbow—only lasted a little while. Would it feel more special?
🌸 Do you know of other flowers or trees that people love in your country? How are they similar to cherry blossoms?
Talk about spring flowers like daffodils, tulips, or apple blossoms. Have you seen them before? What’s your favorite flower or tree?
🌸 Can you think of a story, drawing, or song you could make about cherry blossoms? What would it be about?
Draw a picture of a cherry blossom tree or make up a story about animals or kids playing under the blossoms. What happens in your story?
See Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC With Kids Final Reflections
Visiting the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C. is an unforgettable experience, especially for families. With a little planning and a flexible mindset, you can make it a joyful adventure for everyone.
Have you visited the cherry blossoms with your family? Share your tips or favorite memories in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @FullPassportFamily for more family-friendly travel tips and behind-the-scenes peeks at our adventures!
