Our Top Tips For Cherry Blossom Season in Washington DC
It’s been a rough winter, but spring is almost here, which means it’s time to get ready to see the nation’s capital awash in gorgeous pink blooms. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the most anticipated annual highlights in Washington DC, and this year you’ll catch most of the natural beauty from March 20–April 12, 2026. (For updates on the best dates to catch the cherry blossoms as their colors transform, bookmark this page by the National Park Service and check back as the dates approach.)
To get the most out of your visit to DC this spring, we’ve compiled this guide on where to stay and what to do for peak cherry blossom magic.
Where To Stay During Cherry Blossom Season
While you’ll find most of the iconic cherry blossom trees down at the Tidal Basin, there’s plenty of cherry blossom action happening at Arlo Washington DC, too. The hotel incorporates pop-up cherry blossom decor throughout the season, adding an element of natural beauty to the chic property that blends historic architecture with modern flair.
Arlo Washington DC is also perfectly situated for accessing the main event outdoors. The hotel, located at G Street and 4th Street, is surrounded by many of DC’s most popular attractions, including the National Mall and downtown DC’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment.
When it’s time to head outside to see some blooms, here’s an inside tip: Traffic tends to get busy during peak cherry blossom season, so your best bets to reach the Tidal Basin are the Metro or riding a bike. If you’re staying with us at Arlo Washington DC, your stay already includes Capital Bikeshare credits. What could be better than taking a spin through the city on two wheels to soak up the warm spring air? The bike ride from the hotel to the Tidal Basin should take around 15 minutes, unless you take some scenic detours along the way, whether for photo opps or for coffee or cocktails.
What To Do This Cherry Blossom Season
While the blooms are yours to explore on your own throughout the season, DC also hosts a series of events to celebrate the occasion. Popular events include a Kite Festival, a parade, and Petalpalooza at Navy Yard.
You can also get into the cherry blossom spirit at Arlo Washington DC, which will be hosting “cotton candy hour”—special time slots when guests receive pink cotton candy at check-in— throughout the season.
Other cherry blossom events at the hotel include:
The Creative Circle DMV Bouquet Swap
- Sat., March 14, 4pm–7pm
- This bouquet-making workshop, in partnership with Creative Circle DMV, will take place in the Courtyard. Flowers will be provided for attendees, so they can craft their own bouquets. The event is complimentary for guests of Arlo Washington DC.
Art in Bloom: Paint & Sip
- Sat., April 4, 1pm–3pm
- Sip on bubbly pink Rosé (of course) as you learn watercolor techniques for painting your own cherry blossom art. This workshop will take place in Studios 1 & 2, and is open to the public for adults 21+. Complimentary spots will be reserved for Arlo Washington DC hotel guests.
Living Room Gallery: Chris Pyrate
- The opening reception for Arlo Washington DC’s next Living Room Gallery exhibition will take place on February 26th, but guests and visitors can enjoy the cherry blossom-themed work by DC native Chris Pyrate throughout the season at ART DC Rooftop. While you’re up there, be sure to snap some shots of the scenery, monuments, artwork and cherry blossom décor!
Ready to lock in your spring getaway with a trip to see the blooms? Check out the latest hotel deals available at Arlo Washington DC and book your room today.
