
University of Washington cherry blossoms are in the national top 10.
Washington, D.C. is highly regarded as the top cherry blossom destination in the U.S. But there’s another incredible opportunity for cherry blossom viewing right here in Washington state: the University of Washington. Local Seattleites know the drill, but now it’s time for the rest of the country to recognize this hidden gem. The University of Washington cherry blossoms were ranked among the top 10 “unlikely” cherry blossom destinations in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure.
Everyone in Seattle knows about the excitement that surrounds the annual spring blooming of the University’s cherry trees. As the article says, however, Seattle flies “under the radar” for most folks when it comes to the Japanese tradition of hanami (flower viewing) in the U.S. That may be about to change, thanks to this well-deserved recognition.
Here is what the article has to say about the iconic University of Washington cherry blossoms:
Transplanted from the Washington Park Arboretum in 1961, this will be the 62nd year the Yoshino trees will put on their blush-worthy vanishing act. While sakura viewing is a city-wide event — the tradition started when Japan donated a forest’s-worth of trees to Seattle in the 1930s — the Quad is widely regarded as the most iconic spot for a springtime photo-op.
Are you planning to go to U-Dub (as the locals call it) this spring to view the cherry blossoms? It’s too early to say for sure right now at the end of February, but peak bloom typically happens between late March and early April. We recommend timing your trip to coincide with the U District Cherry Blossom Festival (the 2024 date will be announced soon!).
Just keep in mind that this is a very popular local tradition. If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, your best bet is to go on a weekday morning.
You can read the full article with all the rankings over at Travel + Leisure.