Cherry Blossoms in Boston 2025

When spring comes to Boston, the city is abloom with seasonal flowers. The most sought-after cherry trees are not excessively abundant across the city. Still, in April, you can find some elegant pink blossoms along the Charles River waterfront and in various neighborhoods.

Сherry Blooming Season in Boston

Boston's cherry flowers might pop up in late March and continue to bloom well into late April or even early May. April is the prime time, and visiting in the middle of the month is always a safe bet. However, it's always a good idea to keep an eye on the latest forecasts and updates before planning your trip, as blooming times may vary depending on the weather and other factors.

Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Boston

Boston's Charles River Esplanade Park in Back Bay is the pinnacle of sakura goodness. But you can also check out the Arnold Arboretum, Harvard Yard, Boston Public Garden, Boston Common, and Commonwealth Avenue Mall. Another interactive option is the Brookline Cherry Blossom Festival.

Charles River Esplanade Park

This charming riverside park offers stunning views, especially when the trees bloom with pink cherry blossoms. These blossoms can be found between the Arthur Fiedler Footbridge near Arlington Street and the ramp to Massachusetts Avenue. Along with the cherry blossoms, the park also features magnolias, peach flowers, and other blooms.

The best way to enjoy the floral display is by walking around the park, taking a sightseeing cruise, or renting a boat or kayak to explore at your own pace. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk, except during permitted events. Public restrooms are available behind the DCR Hatch Shell (near the Fiedler Footbridge) and at the Dartmouth St. Facility next to the Dartmouth St. Footbridge.

Boston Public Garden

Founded in 1839, the Boston Public Garden is the first public botanical garden in the United States. Located next to Boston Common, its design is more decorative, featuring winding paths lined with statues, fountains, a variety of trees and plants, and a six-acre pond where visitors can enjoy rides on swan boats. Both Boston Common and the Public Garden are home to Kwanzan and Yoshino cherry blossom trees.

Arnold Arboretum

This 281-acre (113 ha) park, home to over 15,000 accessioned plants, is open daily from sunrise to sunset and free for everyone to enjoy. Whether exploring on a peaceful stroll, observing wildlife, or delving into the stories and science of plants, the Arboretum ensures accessibility and offers something for all visitors.

Most of the cherry trees here are grown for their stunning blossoms rather than fruit and originate from countries across Asia, including Japan, China, Korea, and Taiwan. With different varieties blooming at various times throughout April, there's always something new to see. Be sure to visit the west side of Peters Hill for more beautiful cherry trees.

Brookline Cherry Blossom Festival

If you would like to pair Sakura blossoms viewing with some cultural experience, check out the Brookline Cherry Blossom Festival at Brookline High School Quad. Launched in 2012, it began with a gift of cherry trees from Mr. Hikihara, the Consul General of Japan, to Brookline High School, marking the 100th anniversary of Japan's cherry tree donation to Washington, D.C.

Organized by The Genki Spark and the Brookline High School Japanese Program, the festival attracts visitors from across New England and beyond. In addition to food, games, and music, it features the region's only public taiko drumming showcase, with groups from all over New England.

The festival was on hiatus during 2021-2022 due to COVID-19, and in 2022, organizers announced it would return the following year. However, the 2023 and 2024 festivals were also canceled, and it has not yet been confirmed whether it will take place in 2025.