We all know that an influx of tourists is good for the economy, is good for nationwide morale, etc., but if you want to sit back and look at the cherry blossoms in peace, consider one of these five off-the-beaten-path viewing places for an uninterrupted view of nature.
- Historic Dumbarton Oaks in Georgetown is one of the most scenic areas in the city. Formerly home to Robert Woods Bliss and his wife, Mildred, the estate and the garden make for a perfectly tucked away, perfectly lovely place to view the blooms.
- The U.S. National Arboretum is not just a primo locale to check out the cherry blossoms; this botanical research center is also home to several other varieties of shrub and floral life. For the botany buffs, an open-air tour will give you the history and habits of the arboretum's blossoms.
- The Kenwood area in Chevy Chase is (quietly) renowned for its reserved beauty during cherry blossom season. Locals say this is one of the best, least congested ways to take in the cherry blossoms.
- Well-kept secret Montrose Park is located in Georgetown just a few steps from Dumbarton Oaks. The park is publicly owned and chock-full of open space and beautiful trees.
- Washington National Cathedral is one of D.C.'s most awe-inspiring structures. The beautiful neo-Gothic design makes it a wondrous place to just sit and exist any time of year, but during the spring when the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, the cathedral's other-wordly beauty becomes even more apparent.
If you can't get enough of all things cherry blossom, give these a read:
- Cherry Blossom-Inspired Cocktails: 2014 Edition
- Submit Your Cherry Blossom Pics!
- Final Weekend of Cherry Blossom Festival Presents Parade, Street Fair
We're collecting the best of the best cherry blossom pictures to post to our site, so tweet your best cherry blossom snaps to @NBCWashington with the tag #cherryblossoms.
