Blossom Bliss: 5 Places You Can’t Miss for the Best Cherry Blossom Viewing in and Around NYC
New Yorkers know spring has finally sprung when pink and white cherry blossoms start blooming all around the city. Cherry blossom trees were a gift from Japan to the U.S. over 100 years ago, and they signal a fresh start every year when they bloom for just a couple of weeks and then disappear for another year. The best time to catch them in full bloom in NYC is usually from late March to early April.
In this post, I’m sharing 5 of the best spots for cherry blossom viewing in and around NYC for those of you who are as obsessed with them as I am!
“The significance of the cherry blossom tree in Japanese culture goes back hundreds of years. In their country, the cherry blossom represents the fragility and the beauty of life. It’s a reminder that life is almost overwhelmingly beautiful but that it is also tragically short. ”
5 PLACES YOU CAN’T MISS FOR PRIME CHERRY BLOSSOM VIEWING
1. CENTRAL PARK
Central Park, an urban oasis nestled in the heart of New York City, is a must when it comes to experiencing the magic of spring in the city. This iconic green space offers a multitude of tree-lined paths where you’ll be able to enjoy the cherry blossoms.
Tip: If you have a furry one, off-leash hours at Central Park are 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. If you go early, cherry blossom viewing can be a little more fun for both you and your pup. Click here to learn more about visiting Central Park with your dog.
Central Park Conservancy has a helpful Spring Guide and interactive Cherry Blossom Tracker you can reference to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
Here are some spots where you can be sure to find blooms:
1. West Side of the Reservoir
2. East Side of the Reservoir
3. Great Lawn
4. Cherry Hill
5. Pilgrim Hill
6. Sheep Meadow
Spanning over 50 acres, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a haven for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Its winding paths lined with blooming flowers are a top spot to see cherry blossoms. They have a Cherry Watch map that tracks blossoms and a virtual video you can enjoy on their site.
Cherry Watch courtesy of bbg.org
Virtual visit courtesy of bbg.org
The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx boasts enchanting gardens and lush landscapes. Immerse yourself in the fragrance of blooming cherry blossoms and stunning floral displays throughout the garden.
Photo credit: NYBG.org
@queensbotanicalgarden
Make your way to the vibrant borough of Queens, where the Cherry Circle at the Queens Botanical Garden has a colorful display of cherry blossoms.
Photo credit: ILoveNY.com
Beyond NYC, one of the best kept secrets for prime cherry blossom viewing is only about a 30 minute car ride away from the city, at Branch Brook Park in Newark, New Jersey. Make sure to check out their annual Cherry Blossom Festival in April.
Cherry blossoms may only bloom for a short time, but their beauty leaves a lasting impression. I hope this guide inspires you to get out and explore some of the best spots in and around NYC to experience their magic. Happy cherry blossom hunting!