It’s Cherry Blossom Time in Washington, DC. Not having seen the blossoms for two plus years due to the pandemic, we decided this was the year we’d venture in to the city to take in the glorious blossoms that surround the tidal basin. It did not disappoint.

Cherry Blossom

I wrote a bit about the history of the trees, which I published way back in 2016. Boy, a lot has happened, much of it unexpectedly, in the past nearly six years! Here’s a bit of the background from our previous post, somewhat paraphrased.

• The original idea, of gifting the cherry trees to Washington, DC, came about from Eliza Scidmore in 1885 after her first visit to Japan. For 24 years Mrs. Scidmore approached each incoming Superintendent of the Office of Public Buildings and Grounds to plant trees along the edge of the reclaimed Potomac River.  For 24 years her pleas were for the most part ignored. Not one to concede, in 1909 Mrs. Scidmore decided she would raise the money herself to purchase the trees, with the idea that she would personally donate them to the city. So passionate was her cause she penned a letter to the new first lady, Helen Taft, with her proposal.  Mrs. Taft responded and the rest, as they say, is history.

Spring

I must confess spring is not my most favorite time of year. I enjoy being surrounded by life blooming anew, and special events such as the hoopla of the cherry blossom festival. But, I am someone who is never without Flonaise from mid March until well-into the summer months. While I love the return of color and all things pretty, in the surrounding hills, parks and our own backyard, I do not love being allergic to most things that bloom. ::sigh:: I do, however, appreciate the metaphorical significance of spring, life beginning a new cycle. It gives one hope.

A Spring Respite

Washington, DC is one of our favorite playgrounds. We never get tired of visiting the city as there is something very special about it. I can look at the Washington Memorial 100 different times, and I see a new perspective every time. I am in awe each time I look up Constitution Avenue at the majestic capital building. There is so much history within those walls.

Tidal Basin

It was with that mindset that we began another day of exploring the city and made our way to the tidal basin. There is a 2-mile walking loop surrounding the tidal basin, mostly paved and flat. It’s an easy walk. Just mind your step as there are low hanging branches and in some areas, tree roots abound. Even when the trees are not blooming, walking around the tidal basin makes for a lovely walk. There are benches along the way as well where one can sit and take in the view and embrace the moment.

Take a Walk With Us

Walk along with us as we stroll the two-mile loop around the tidal basin. If you haven’t already done so, please subscribe to our channel.

If You Go

• Do not drive – parking is minimal.
• Take the Metro, city bus, or walk.
• The tidal basin is always open.
• Paddle boats are available for rent.
• The Jefferson, FDR and MLK Memorials are located along the basin loop.
• Restrooms are located at the FDR Memorial.
• Do NOT hang on the tree branches or climb on the trees.

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