Experience National Cherry Blossom Festival At These Washington, DC Hotels

Each year, many travelers head to Japan to see the annual cherry blossom display but an equally stunning experience can be enjoyed in Washington, DC. Why travel to Japan when the stunning National Cherry Blossom Festival in the city’s Tidal Basin in the country’s capital is equal to, or maybe better than the Japanese sites?

When did Washington, DC first celebrate the National Cherry Blossom Festival?

Washington, DC first celebrated its National Cherry Blossom Festival after Yukio Ozaki, Tokyo’s mayor, gifted a few cherry trees to the US Government in 1912. These days, those few trees have grown into more than 3,000 cherry trees in the US capital’s Tidal Basin.

The original gesture of friendship between Tokyo and Washington, DC, sparked a much-loved tradition. A few weeks apart, the combination of Kwanzan and Yoshino cherry tree varieties is in full bloom, causing the peak cherry blossom period to last long enough for anyone to experience it.

When does the festival run?

While weather patterns across the world have fluctuated over the last two decades, Washington, DC has stayed relatively consistent. Moreover, the trees dress themselves up with gorgeous pink blossoms between late March and early April.

According to the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s official website, the event is set to start on March 20 and run through April 13, 2025.

During the festival, visitors can enjoy the Pink Tie Party during March, followed by the Bloom Kite Festival, which sees the nation’s capital lit up by colorful kites with the backdrop of the cherry blossoms.

Meanwhile, as Washington, DC gears up for spring, locals and visitors alike can look forward to the arrival of the cherry blossoms, and the coming of warmer days.

Where to stay in Washington, DC during the National Cherry Blossom Festival?

Washington, DC boasts many excellent hotels, but when visiting for the cherry blooms, the following are ideally located for a spring stay.

– The Morrow Hotel, NoMa Neighborhood, DC

The Morrow Hotel is the official hotel for the National Cherry Blossom Festival and is perfectly sited in the NoMa neighbourhood of the nation’s capital. This neighborhood stretches from Union Station and hosts the Union Market food hall, historic sites like Gallaudet University, and many trendy restaurants.

Meanwhile, The Morrow Hotel features 203 modern rooms and suites, dining venues newly led by the NYC-based Marcus Samuelsson Restaurant Group, and 11,400 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space. Moreover, guests don’t just enjoy the cherry blossoms but can adopt one with the hotel’s Adopt a Tree overnight package.

Rate: $216 a night

Hotel website

– St. Gregory Hotel, Dupont Circle, DC

For those looking for convenience and location, the St. Gregory Hotel is a mere five-minute drive from the prime viewing spots on the National Mall. The hotel offers a refined atmosphere and nestles in one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the city.

Meanwhile, St. Gregory Hotel offers 156 studios and suites, featuring a blend of timeless design and fashionable mid-century style, offering a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

Moreover, guests can dine at the stylish Ellington Park Bistro which has recently revealed new menu items from Executive Chef Charlie Loomis.

The hotel’s Cherry on Top package offers an affordable stay and so much more.

Rate: $119/night

Hotel website

Experience the perfect stay while visiting Washington, DC for the National Cherry Blossom Festival, 2025.