Unleash the Blooms: Where to find Philadelphia’s Best Spots To See Cherry Blossoms
Springtime in Philadelphia reveals a captivating sight - one that can be filled with sensory delights, the cherry blossoms! Each year, Philly transforms into an urban wonderland, adorned in soft pink and white hues, thanks to the annual blooming of thousands of cherry trees. If you find delight in shedding the stark cold of winter and want to enjoy the loveliness of spring, this article will be your guide to catching an exceptional local spectacle. We'll be cherry blossom spotting around town, from the annual 2024 Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival, the pink canopies of Morris Arboretum and Gardens, the scenic beauty along the Schuylkill River and Kelly Drive to the enriching confines of the Philadelphia Art Museum, and finally to the world-renowned Longwood Gardens. So have your spring-themed picnic hamper ready as we take on this colorful tour that’s as much about cherry blossoms as it is about Philadelphia's treasured natural and urban spaces.
Mark Twain once famously said, "It's spring fever...You don't quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!” And we think he might have subtly been referring to the sight of cherry blossoms in full bloom. Come springtime, Philadelphia transforms into a pink wonderland, wrapped in blush hues of cherry blossom. Star of this botanical show, the Yoshino cherry trees - a souvenir shared by our friends in Japan- generously scatter their bloom.
One such festival symbolizing international peace and friendship, has its roots dating back to the early 20th century, when these blossoms were first introduced in the United States. Japan gifted 1,600 cherry trees to the city as a gesture of friendship, and these pink trees were planted in Fairmount Park and have since become a cherished part of the city's landscape. Over the years, the city has continued to plant more cherry trees, enhancing its springtime appeal. The annual Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival, started in 1998 by the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia, celebrates this enduring bond between the two cultures and the beauty of the cherry blossoms.
Our guide starts with the picture-postcard-worthy Morris Arboretum and Gardens. As the cherry blossoms begin to bloom, Philadelphia transforms into a city of pink, making it the perfect time to visit the Morris Arboretum and Gardens. This 92-acre horticultural display garden features a spectacular collection of both native and exotic trees, including a variety of cherry blossom trees that burst into bloom each spring. The Morris Arboretum and Gardens is not just a place to admire the cherry blossoms, but also a place to learn. It is part of the University of Pennsylvania and serves as a learning center that combines art, science, and the humanities. Visitors can participate in a variety of educational programs and workshops that focus on botany, horticulture, and environmental science. Among the Arboretum's many features, the Japanese Hill and Water Garden is a must-see during the cherry blossom season. This tranquil space, designed in the style of a traditional Japanese garden, is home to several varieties of cherry trees, offering a stunning display of blossoms.
Next, we guide you Along the Schuylkill River and Kelly Drive. Such a treat during the peak cherry blossom time in April, this scenic drive boasts an impressive array of cherry trees, painting a serene portrait of nature’s spring celebration. This scenic route, which stretches for about 8.4 miles, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a stunning backdrop of cherry blossoms in full bloom. It's a popular spot for jogging, biking, and even rowing, with the Schuylkill River serving as a training ground for local rowing clubs. The cherry blossoms that line the river and drive add a magical touch to these activities, making them even more enjoyable.
No cherry blossom viewing in Philadelphia is complete without a visit to the neoclassical Philadelphia Art Museum. The Philadelphia Art Museum is not just a place to admire world-class art, but also a prime location for cherry blossom viewing. The museum's surroundings are adorned with these beautiful trees, providing a stunning setting for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Inside, the museum houses an impressive collection of over 240,000 works of art, spanning more than 2,000 years. The museum's vast collection includes European, American, and Asian art, as well as armor, textiles, and photographs. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops, making it a hub for art education in the city.
The final leg of our cherry blossom journey brings you to the enchanting landscape of the Longwood Gardens. Known for its expansive meadows, majestic trees and delicate water features; the area bustles with cherry blossom hues during spring, offering an experience that is nothing short of a piece of poetry. It's home to one of the largest and most diverse collections of plants in the United States. During the cherry blossom season, the gardens become a sea of pink and white, with over 240 cherry trees of 20 different varieties in bloom. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, enjoy the fragrant blossoms, and even participate in cherry blossom-themed events and workshops. The gardens also feature a variety of other attractions, including a large conservatory, an outdoor theatre, and a series of stunning fountains.
Go ahead and bookmark these spots, gather your picnic blankets and cameras, and prepare to be mesmerized by the city’s pink springtime beauty! If you enjoyed exploring Philadelphia's cherry blossom wonders with us, don't miss out on our other article highlighting the city's best rooftop bars. Experience Philadelphia from new heights and toast to spring with panoramic views and refreshing drinks. Check out our rooftop bar guide now and elevate your Philadelphia experience!
