In Washington DC, from late March to mid-April, the city comes alive with beautiful pink and white blooms: the cherry blossom season. And to top it off, there’s even a three-week-long cultural festival held across the city dedicated to this magical time of year!
With DC’s National Cherry Blossom Festival just around the corner, you may be wondering where the best locations are to see the cherry blossoms and get your photos taken. So today I’m sharing 8 of my favorite cherry blossom locations around Washington DC, from iconic spots to hidden gems most people walk right past.
By Natasha Lamalle Photography
The Classic Picks
The Tidal Basin
The Tidal Basin is THE classic. If you want your session here, let’s plan it early or on a weekday. Avoid peak day if you can; two days before or after works beautifully. We can meet at sunrise, when the city is still quiet.
Dreaming of that iconic shot with the Jefferson Memorial in the background? We can make it happen. I know a few secret spots that work well, even when the basin is busy.
Best for: Iconic DC backdrops, monument views, couples who don’t mind an early wake-up call.
East Potomac Park and Haines Point
By Natasha Lamalle Photography
The Hains Point is a 4.4-mile loop with thousands of cherry blossoms in over 10 varieties. You’ll find waterfront views of the Potomac River, the Anacostia River, and the Washington Channel. Explore on foot or by bike. It’s quieter than the basin and absolutely stunning.
Best for: Couples who want waterfront backdrops without the Tidal Basin crowds.
The Hidden Gems
The Basilica in Brookland
The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is the largest Roman Catholic church in North America. It’s surrounded by more than 150 cherry trees that bloom in early spring. Architecture and blossoms in the same frame, it doesn’t get better than that. This is a true hidden gem and one of my favorites for intimate portraits.
Best for: Couples looking for a dramatic, uncrowded alternative to the Tidal Basin.
The Bishop’s Garden at the National Cathedral
Perched at the highest point in Washington DC, the Bishop’s Garden is majestic. It’s my all-time favorite for proposal sessions. Delicate pink blooms meet intricate stonework and tranquil gardens. It feels worlds away from the busy Mall. Intimate, gorgeous, and warmly recommended.
Best for: Proposals, intimate engagement sessions, couples who love a garden setting.
Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
Tucked into the heart of Georgetown, Tudor Place is elegant and undervisited. The Federal-style historic house is surrounded by beautifully kept gardens that bloom with color in the spring. It’s a refined, romantic backdrop unlike anything on the Mall. Sessions here require a photography permit fee, which I’m happy to walk you through. It is absolutely worth it for the privacy and beauty you get in return.
Best for: Couples who want a historic garden-estate atmosphere with a Georgetown feel and far fewer crowds.
The Capitol Hill Area
Stanton Park and Capitol Hill
Stanton Park is perfect for a laid-back cherry blossom session. Scenic pathways wind through an abundance of cherry trees. It’s relaxed, picturesque, and great for candid portraits. You’re also just one block from the US Capitol, the Library of Congress, and the Supreme Court. One session, so many options.
Best for: Couples who want variety, greenery plus iconic DC architecture, in a single session.
Lower U.S. Capitol
There’s something special about being in the heart of the capital during cherry blossom season. The best viewing area is near the US Capitol and Union Station. Wide paths and blooming trees create some of the most patriotic backdrops in the city. You can get stunning photos with the Capitol building right behind you.
Best for: Couples who want a classic DC feel with landmark backdrops.
The Early Bloomers
The Smithsonian Enid Haupt Garden
The Enid Haupt Garden was originally built to replicate the American Victorian gardens as they appeared in the late 19th century. It’s filled with gorgeous Magnolia trees. Technically not a cherry blossom location, but if you want dramatic blooms in your photos, this is the place. The magnolias bloom before the cherry trees. That makes it a wonderful option for early March sessions.
Best for: Early spring sessions in March, couples who love a lush garden with a historic feel.
If you’ve never visited Washington DC during cherry blossom season, go! You won’t be disappointed. Take a look at my blog post on How To Plan A Cherry Blossom Proposal, and if you’re ready to connect, head over to my contact page and let’s make it happen!
Still looking for the perfect engagement session location? Take a look at my full guide to the best engagement locations in Washington DC.
