Everyone knows about the famous DC cherry blossoms, but did you know that Virginia has some of the best places to see cherry blossoms in the United States? From early March to mid-April, these trees burst into blooms of pink and white, signaling the start of spring.
Here are the best places to see cherry blossoms in Virginia.
1. Hollywood Cemetery, Richmond
Hollywood Cemetery is a Richmond, VA destination because of the U.S. presidents buried there, in addition to other notable figures.
Presidents Circle, where James Monroe and John Tyler are buried, is among the best views. The Gothic Revival cast iron canopy, known as the “Birdcage,” is Monroe’s final resting place and the intricate details of the monument, paired with the delicate cherry blossoms and a view of the James River, makes this an ethereal place to enjoy the blooms.
This is considered a “garden” cemetery, where the landscaping if planted to be more garden-like, which is why this location is among the best to see cherry blossoms in the Richmond area.
This is just one of the many U.S. Presidential sites in Virginia.
2. Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington
Arlington National Cemetery is a one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Virginia outside of Washington D.C.
Both pink and white blossoms can be seen among the hundreds of acres at the national cemetery. The pink blooms can especially be seen around the plaza area.
An urban forestry team is responsible for taking care of the landscaping within the hallowed grounds.
Fun Fact: Prunus Autumnalis is a cherry tree that blooms in both Spring and Fall at Arlington National Cemetery.
3. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna
The Meadowlark Botanical Gardens has an abundance of cherry trees that bloom just a little bit later than Washington D.C.
The 95-acre garden is a great place to stroll around and see the Yoshino Cherry trees!
There are a variety of special events that are held when the trees are blooming, including a Blossom Bar with wine, beer and specialty drinks, as well as food trucks with cherry-themed desserts and snacks.
Vienna is one of our top picks for the best places to retire in Virginia!
4. Alexander Bell Drive, Reston
Alexander Bell Drive in South Reston is a great place to view cherry blossoms in Northern Virginia. This is a really quiet area without a lot of people, so it’s perfect for those that want to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful moment enjoying the beauty.
Reston is one of our top choices for the Best Neighborhoods in Northern Virginia.
5. Green Spring Gardens, Lincolnia
Green Spring Gardens is a lesser-known place to enjoy cherry trees in Fairfax County.
Take a tour of their 18th century historic home at the gardens to learn about the area’s history.
6. Van Gogh Bridge at Lake Anne, Reston
The Van Gogh Bridge at Lake Anne in Reston, VA is a great place to see cherry blossoms and have a meal afterwards.
Get a photo of the beautiful cherry trees being reflected in the water of Lake Anne.
Nearby restaurants and a farmers market make this a great destination for enjoying the trees and enjoying a meal.
7. Shouse Village, Vienna
Enjoy late-blooming cherry trees in Shouse Village in Vienna, VA.
The Kwanzan cherry trees bloom later in the season than Yoshino cherry trees, which is great if you are visiting later in Spring but still want to see a stunning display!
8. George Washington Masonic National Memorial, Alexandria
Some of the earliest blooms during cherry blossom time can be found at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial in Alexandria.
The Okame cherry trees are among the first to bloom each year, sometimes blooming earlier than the Washington D.C. tidal basin.
This National Historic Landmark is a memorial dedicated to the first U.S. president.
9. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is a great place to enjoy spring blooms. Walk under the cherry trees outside, and then go inside the conservatory to explore tropical plants (and a hot and humid environment, which is often welcome in the cool temperatures of Spring).
10. Old Town Alexandria
There are so many picturesque places to see cherry blossoms in Alexandria that we can’t pick just one!
Alexandria is close to Washington D.C., which means that you can bike (or take a water taxi) into the nation’s capital to see the Tidal Basin display, too, if you’d like.
However, we like the less-frenzied events in Alexandria which has so many photo spots that you will be taking pictures all day long!
Founder’s Park is an especially great location for seeing the Okame cherry trees.
Ben Brenman Park is another excellent location to see the blooms!
There are so many great things to do with kids in Alexandria that this is a great family destination!
13. River Farm, Alexandria
River Farm is the American Horticultural Society Headquarters. The 25-acre gardens have plenty of cherry trees paired with views of the Potomac River.
This land was once part of George Washington’s original farmland.
If you are looking for a quiet, calm place to enjoy cherry blossoms, this is a great destination!
14. Mount Vernon
The infamous story about George Washington cutting down a cherry tree is likely a myth, but the U.S President DID have cherry trees at his beloved Mount Vernon estate!
You will find cherry trees in the Upper and Lower Gardens and, quite fittingly, the Fruit Orchard.
Of course Mount Vernon is the top of our list of historical things to do in Virginia!
15. Windsor Way, Richmond
A beautiful walkway lined with cherry trees makes this a great photo spot! This is a residential area of the city, with large stately homes lining the road.