Washington, D.C. attracts around 22 million visitors a year, with the National Cherry Blossom Festival alone drawing 1.5 million. The U.S. capital city ranked 17th on the list of The World’s 100 Best Cities in 2023 and is at its showiest each spring when thousands of graceful blossoming cherry trees envelop the Tidal Basin. Travelers are also attracted by the cultural experiences, iconic monuments, impressive foodie scene and peeks into the halls of the country’s governing institutions.
But the question of where to stay to experience the city’s cherry blossoms and enjoy easy access to the sights can be overwhelming in a place which offers so much.
As you plan your cherry-blossom-peeping trip, why not pair your flavor-of-fun with a D.C. neighborhood showcasing your interests? Here, four distinct neighborhoods offering delights beyond the bloom.
Hip & Cool: The Navy Yard District
The Navy Yard District on the Anacostia River less than a mile from the U.S. Capitol features Michelin-rated restaurants and breweries, embodying creative energy thanks to the slew of young professionals who call it home. With ample green space and a children’s waterpark, the area also teems with kids and dogs. Want to be on the water? Rent paddleboards or kayaks — or choose to catch your fill of cherry blossoms aboard a paddle-boat-booze-cruise.
Stay at the new Thompson Washington D.C., which evokes the area’s maritime historical roots with ship-themed cocktails served at the rooftop bar boasting 360-degree views. Take in a baseball game at the Nationals Park stadium, just a five-minute walk from the hotel, which also serves as a concert venue and has hosted shows by the likes of Green Day and Bruce Springsteen.
Stately Elegance: The Dupont Circle District
The Dupont Circle District shimmers with a mix of stately townhouses and bustling cafes and restaurants. Settle in at Yours Truly, D.C., a Vignette Collection boutique property by IHG which reflects its neighborhood’s vibe, attracting students from nearby universities for coffee, or those booked for a professional trim at the onsite men’s salon, Groom Guy. Browse the private hidden-gem Phillips Collection museum just steps from the hotel and indulge at area favorites Mercy Me (South American), Rasika (Indian), and Residents Café & Bar, best known for fancy cocktails.
Walking enthusiasts will enjoy strolling Embassy Row or heading south to the National Mall to experience the grandeur of the Lincoln Memorial and other historic sights. To bask in the cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin, extend your walk or catch an Uber.
Power & Influence: The White House District
The White House District puts you steps from — you guessed it — the White House, Lafayette Square, and the Washington Monument on the National Mall. For history’s sake, dine at D.C.’s oldest eating establishment, Old Ebbitt Grill, or at the intimate historic Round Robin Bar in The Willard InterContinental, where the term “lobbying” was purportedly coined.
Stay at Hotel Washington — which underwent a dazzling renovation and recently unveiled a modern open-fire culinary concept at Fireclay. Make repeat visits to the rooftop bar, which locals know offers the most intimate glimpse onto White House grounds. Your hotel base positions you well to experience The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade and the Blossom Kite Festival around the Washington Monument.
Charming and Historic: The Georgetown District
The Georgetown District magically brings history to life, as real as the cobblestone under your feet. Meander the narrow streets reading historic plaques and discovering where the who’s-who of Georgetown lived. Keep your eyes open, bookworms, for the plentiful little free libraries dotting the neighborhood and, if you’re hungry, stop at Scheele’s Market. Find live performances on your doorstep at Blues Alley Jazz, or follow the path along the river to the stunning Kennedy Center.
Return to sumptuous modern accommodations at the Four Seasons Hotel, where spa and suites recently experienced a sizzling makeover. Eat, drink and be merry at their own Bourbon Steak, one of D.C.’s seen-and-be-seen steak houses, as well as Fiola Mare on the river, frequented by the Bidens and, formerly, the Obamas. From Georgetown’s Waterfront, take a cherry blossom boat tour through City Cruises or with Embark DC for a private tour.
