Blossoming cherry trees is one of the first signs that spring has arrived in Charlotte and its vicinity. Cherries are known for their gorgeous blooms, and there are many cherry varieties grown in North Carolina. You can spot them downtown as well as in the countryside from early March through mid-April.
Downtown Charlotte
Cherries make Charlotte city parks look stunning in the spring. Visitors should definitely take a stroll through Uptown Romare Bearden Park, located not far from Truist Field, the home of the Charlotte Knights. The park features two gardens, picnic tables with chairs, several waterfalls, and playgrounds.
Another good place for a springtime stroll is the giant Freedom Park, located a few miles from downtown between Dilworth and Myers Park neighborhoods. A large lake is the most scenic area of the park.
Independence Park is a large urban park at the western end of the Elizabeth neighborhood. Its Rose Garden is the main attraction, looking breathtaking during the bloom season.
Cherryville
Cherryville is a small city that can be reached with a 48-minute drive from Charlotte. It owes its name to the beautiful cherry trees that were planted here by a local resident in the late 19th century. The town is famous for its annual Cherry Blossom Festival which takes place in mid-April on Main Street. Cherryville Cherry Blossom Festival features cherry desserts, eating contests, an antique car show, live music, a 5k race, dances, a pageant, inflatables, and games.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Charlotte, NC for cherry blossom viewing?
Most cherry tree varieties grown in North Carolina exhibit stunning blooms from early March till mid-April. It is the best time to visit Charlotte, NC, for cherry blossom viewing. Flowering can slightly be impacted by the weather conditions in a given year, so it's advised to plan accordingly. Show more
Where are the best spots to see cherry blossoms in Charlotte, NC?
For an excellent cherry blossom viewing experience in Charlotte, NC, visit the Uptown Romare Bearden Park. With two gardens, playgrounds, picnic tables, waterfalls, it makes for a great family spot. Freedom Park, with a picturesque lake, and Independence Park, famous for its Rose Garden's scenic beauty, are other beautiful spots. In addition, Main Street hosts the Cherry Blossom Festival each year in Cherryville, providing a lively, festive experience. Show more
What varieties of cherry trees are grown in North Carolina?
North Carolina's cherry tree varieties include Kwanzan, Yoshino, Okame, Weeping cherry, and Sargent cherry. Among the cherry trees grown in North Carolina, the Yoshino cherry variety is the most common, known for its fluffy white-pink flowers. Kwanzan, which has double-pink flowers, is another popular variety. Sargent cherry has pink flowers with yellow centers, while Okame boasts striking pink flowers that bloom early in spring. Show more
What is the history behind Cherryville, and how did it get its name?
In the late 19th century, a resident planted cherry trees that led to the town's name, Cherryville. The town was initially named White Pines, but its post office was denied in that name. Founding its post office in 1881, the town grew over time. The Cherryville Eagle, the first newspaper, was introduced in 1887. The town today is known for its cherry trees, cotton mills, and strawberries. Show more
What events and activities are available during the Cherryville Cherry Blossom Festival?
Main Street hosts the Cherryville Cherry Blossom Festival every mid-April, offering several activities and events. Some of the not-to-miss celebrations include the Cherry Blossom pageant, inflatables, 5k race, live music, and contests. The eateries offer cherry-themed delicacies, and visitors can also participate in eating contests to show off their skills. The festival's lively amusement and entertainment make it a must-visit event in Cherryville. Show more
