They're here! The Kanzan Cherry Trees are having their first blooms. I grew up in South Texas, that said, the first time I experienced Spring and Cherry Blossom season in NYC I was amazed! What a gorgeous, welcome sight they are. After a long, grueling winter you get - BEAUTIFUL FREAKING TREE BLOSSOMS. When the petals finally fall in May it looks like it's snowing pink. It's great!
Grab your allergy medicine and check out one of these great spots in NYC to perch under some cherry blossoms, see friends and family, snap a few 'grams and enjoy the delight of being alive.
Free places to see cherry blossoms:
Nestled between Manhattan and Queens is the narrow Roosevelt Island, home to the Four Freedoms Park, the Smallpox Memorial Hospital ruins, and in peak Springtime, a cascade of cherry blossoms.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
The novelty Tramway takes you across with heightened views of the blossoms - the tram accepts M.T.A .Metro Cards. The East River walkway runs around a majority of the island, making it bike-friendly, as well.
WHAT IT'S GOOD FOR:
Pets: OK for dogs on leash
Kids: Good for all ages
Activities: Walking, biking, river views
At the top Riverside Park, across from the iconic Riverside Church is Sakura Park. Sakura, the Japanese name for "cherry blossom," offers a bounty of blossoms with epic architectural backdrops.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
After you've done snapping all your photos you can take a stroll through Riverside Park, there you'll find more blossoms. If you're hungry grab a bite in the nearby neighborhood of Harlem, at the oldest African eatery in NYC, Massawa, serving Ethiopian food.
WHAT IT'S GOOD FOR:
Pets: OK for dogs on leash
Kids: Good for all ages,
Activities: Level 4 Playground, sports courts walking, biking and river views
If you're looking for a solid, reliable glimpse at cherry blossoms, head to Central Park. About mid-way, around 72nd St is Cherry Hill, it's the "jackpot" of blooms, and you'll often see professional (and non-professional) photographers getting the perfect shot.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
There really isn't enough to say about Central Park, it's great. The ramble is great for bird watching and having the feeling that you're not in the city. The Boathouse is now open for rowing and eating, for those who aren't as interested in packing a picnic.
WHAT IT'S GOOD FOR:
Pets: OK for dogs leash
Kids: Good for all ages
Activities: Boating, biking, bird watching, eating, museums, and more!
Paid places to see cherry blossoms:
Not every view is free. These are minimal cost, and worth it for the blossoms.
Arguably one of the best viewings of blossoms in the city, you can even track the blooms here. Tickets in advance are required, and be sure to get yours soon! Viewings were closed last year so people are ready to see those blooms again!
WHY WE LOVE IT:
While COVID has made some of the rules a little more strict, especially when it comes to having leisure time in the park, but it's worth it for the gorgeous blooms. Trust me! Prospect Park is connected to the other side of the garden, here you'll find loads more walking paths, blossoms and birds.
WHAT IT'S GOOD FOR:
Pets: Only service dogs allowed
Kids: Good for all ages
Activities: Walking, bird watching, and everything botanical!
If you're looking for a little adventure check out Staten Island's Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanic Garden. Admission is $5 for adults and they have a lovely collection of cherry blossoms inside the Scholar Garden.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
You can ride the Staten Island Ferry over and take a car or bus to the center. The Scholar's Garden, where a majority of the cherry trees are located is a Chinese garden with other natural wonders to admire.
WHAT IT'S GOOD FOR:
Pets: Only service dogs
Kids: Good for all ages
Activities: Walking, museums, harbor views, and restaurants.
Get out and enjoy those blossoms!
Until next time,
Elise