Cherry Blossom in Ohio 2025

Spring brings beauty to the state of Ohio. With perfect timing, you're likely to catch a glimpse of exuberant sakura flowers in Columbus, Athens, Cleveland, and other cities across the state. The first blossoms may pop up in late March and bloom through mid-April or later, depending on the weather and geography. In some years, the trees might not bloom at all. But if they do, the delicate flowers don't stay long before they wilt—only for a week or two. So keep an eye on the forecast to not miss this beautiful springtime show.

Cherry Blossom in Columbus, Ohio (late March–early April)

One of Ohio's popular destinations to view cherry blossoms is the Columbus area. You can find ephemeral spring beauty in the very Downtown of Columbus. Check out such scenic landmarks as Ohio Statehouse, Goodale Park, and German Village neighborhood—namely 3rd Street. Another famed spot is Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, to which Japan gifted 20 cherry trees in 2012.

Additionally, you may go outside of Columbus and discover even more rewarding spots. See a hundred cherry trees at Hidaka USA in Dublin, Ohio, about 15 mi (24 km) northwest of Downtown. Alternatively, go to the Japanese Garden in The Dawes Arboretum, 36 mi (58 km) east of Columbus. The admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids aged 5–15, and free for the youngest ones.

Cherry blossoms in Athens, Ohio (late March–mid-April)

Columbus is not the only cherry blossom destination in Ohio state. Ohio University in Athens offers a truly exquisite natural spectacle. The campus is studded with cherry trees, which were given to the university as a gift in 1979 by Chubu University, situated in Kasugai, Japan. The trees symbolize the arrival of spring and the long-lasting friendship between the universities in Athens and Kasugai.

Cherry blossoms in Cleveland, Ohio (mid-April–late April)

Cleveland likewise promises a mind-blowing display of cherry blossoms at Wade Oval Park in University Circle. Walk around the Fine Arts Garden of the Cleveland Museum of Art to take in the stunning elegance. Besides the Wade Lagoon, you can also go to Daffodil Hill, located within the always beautiful Lake View Cemetery, which also boasts cherry trees. Just note that in Cleveland, the flowering can only start by mid-April, while in Columbus and Athens, it's practically over.

For further information about visiting Ohio cities, we recommend going to official websites (see External Resources below). Also, consider booking your stay in advance—the map suggests the most convenient options nearby.