30 Apr Where To Visit Cherry Blossom in NYC

Embarking on a cherry blossom adventure with your family in New York City is a magical experience that heralds the arrival of spring. The city, known for its skyscrapers and bustling streets, transforms into a colorful and serene landscape, making it a perfect outdoor activity for families looking to embrace nature’s beauty. Here are the best places to enjoy the cherry blossoms in NYC in 2024, each offering a unique way to celebrate the season with your loved ones.

Central Park
Central Park, the heart and soul of NYC, is an idyllic setting for families to marvel at cherry blossoms. The park’s pathways become tunnels of pink and white blossoms, creating a breathtaking backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. While there isn’t a specific festival dedicated to cherry blossoms here, the park’s sheer beauty and the variety of blooms make every visit feel like a celebration. Don’t forget to check out the area around the reservoir and the Cherry Hill section for the best views.

Roosevelt Island
Taking a short tram ride to Roosevelt Island provides a delightful escape with stunning views of the cherry blossoms against the NYC skyline. The Roosevelt Island Cherry Blossom Festival is a fun-filled event for families, featuring traditional and modern Japanese performances, art installations, and cultural exhibits. The festival is a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while learning about and celebrating Japanese culture together with your kids.

Randall’s Island
Randall’s Island Park, known for its sports fields and scenic pathways, also boasts beautiful cherry blossom trees. While there isn’t an official cherry blossom festival on Randall’s Island, its open spaces and waterfront views make it a lovely spot for family picnics and kite flying under the blooming trees. The island offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of room for kids to run and play.

Pelham Bay Park
As the city’s largest park, Pelham Bay Park offers vast landscapes filled with various species of cherry blossoms. The park’s quiet and less crowded nature makes it perfect for families seeking a tranquil spot to enjoy nature’s display.

Riverside Park Cherry Walk
The Riverside Park Cherry Walk, located between 100th and 125th streets, is an enchanting spot to experience cherry blossoms. The pathway lined with blossoming trees alongside the Hudson River offers a picturesque setting for family walks and photo ops.

New York Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden is a wonderland for families during cherry blossom season, featuring an extensive collection of cherry trees. The garden’s Cherry Blossom Festival, known as Sakura Matsuri, presents a vibrant program of Japanese cultural events, including tea ceremonies, origami workshops, and performances, making it a splendid outing for families looking to immerse themselves in both natural beauty and cultural activities.

Queens Botanical Garden Cherry Circle
At the Queens Botanical Garden, families can wander through the Cherry Circle and other themed gardens to enjoy the blossoms. The garden hosts various spring events that align with the bloom season, offering educational and fun activities for kids and adults alike. The serene environment provides a great setting for families to explore and learn about plants and nature together.

Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Famous for its Unisphere, Flushing Meadows Corona Park also features lovely cherry blossom trees around the Meadow Lake area. The park’s expansive space is ideal for family picnics, bike rides, and leisurely walks during the spring months. The park’s diversity of attractions means there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy alongside the natural beauty.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is home to one of the most anticipated cherry blossom events in NYC, the Sakura Matsuri Festival. This celebration of Japanese culture offers families an array of activities, from tea ceremonies and manga workshops to samurai sword performances. The garden’s Cherry Esplanade is a spectacular sight, with rows of cherry trees creating a stunning floral canopy. The festival’s family-friendly atmosphere and interactive cultural experiences make it a must-visit during the cherry blossom season.

Visiting these cherry blossom spots in NYC offers families a unique opportunity to experience the joy and renewal that comes with spring. Whether you’re engaging in cultural festivals, enjoying peaceful walks, or simply having a picnic under the blooming trees, these locations provide a perfect setting for making lasting family memories.

Have a look at our events calendar for more family fun activities in NYC.