As spring rolls around, Philadelphia is enlivened with a variety of cherry blossoms, including traditional pink, as well as white and purple types. The city boasts a bunch of eye-catching parks, streets, and sidewalks to delight in these delicate flowers. Don't know where to head first? We've stockpiled the most spectacular localities in the confines of Philly. Read on to find out and pick your favorite one.
Where to see cherry blossoms in Philadelphia
Fairmount Park
The first and most beautiful spot to check out is the historic Fairmount Park, sitting on the banks of the Schuylkill river. On the west side, you'll find Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, famous for old weeping cherry trees beside the pond. For breathtaking tree-lined waterfront views, opt for the opposite side, where Kelly Drive bathes in pink blossoms. Start your picturesque walk from the Boathouse Row north to Girard Avenue and further to the Playing Angels Sculpture. The best time to visit Fairmount Park is during the annual Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia in mid-April.
Delaware Rivers' waterfront & Downtown Philly
The waterfront of the Delaware river also has something to impress cherry blossom fans. Head out to Columbus Boulevard and see the picture-perfect scenery yourself. One of the most picturesque areas is located around Chestnut Street and Penn's Landing. From that point, you can also walk to Downtown Philly and explore the city's central neighborhoods, dotted with lovely cherry trees.
Morris Arboretum
Another stunning flower destination is situated in northwest Philadelphia at the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania. The botanical garden is home to 35 varieties of cherry trees. To celebrate the prime two-week blooming season and Japan's cultural heritage, the Arboretum hosts the Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival in early April.
Longwood Gardens
If you don't mind going outside the city, visit Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, less than an hour's drive west from Philadelphia. All sorts of plants and cherry trees grace this natural area. Here you stand a chance of spotting such rare varieties as Okame Cherry and the Weeping Higan Cherry.
When do cherry trees bloom in Philadelphia?
Generally, Philly's cherry blossoms pop up in late March and continue blooming into late April or even early May. Yet, they hit their zenith during two or three weeks in April. The actual season differs a bit each year, so we encourage you to check the forecasts while planning your getaway to Philadelphia around the cherry blossoms.
Practical info
When is the annual Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia held?
Usually celebrated in mid-April, the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia is a time when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. During the festival, visitors can enjoy different events such as traditional Japanese cultural activities, musical performances, and food vendors. It is advisable to always check for the exact dates as seasons can differ slightly each year before planning your visit. Show more
What can visitors see at Morris Arboretum?
Located in northwest Philadelphia, Morris Arboretum is a botanical garden that forms part of the University of Pennsylvania. With over 13,000 labelled trees and plants, Morris Arboretum features 35 varieties of cherry trees visitors can enjoy. Early in April, Morris Arboretum hosts the Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival, where visitors can celebrate two weeks of prime cherry blossom season as well as Japanese heritage and culture. Show more
Which cherry tree varieties are considered rare at Longwood Gardens?
Less than an hour's drive from Philadelphia, in Kennett Square, visitors can enjoy the picturesque Longwood Gardens, a horticultural display garden that features Weeping Higan Cherry and Okame Cherry, among other cherry tree varieties. Visitors can take in a scenic trail of cherry blossoms and a variety of plants, including colorful blooming beds, topiaries, and stunning fountains as they walk around the different gardens. Show more
Where is it possible to enjoy the views of cherry blossoms along the Delaware River waterfront?
Philadelphia's Delaware River waterfront is one of the most breathtaking areas to enjoy the views of cherry blossoms. Visitors can experience a beautiful sight of pink cherry blossoms along Columbus Boulevard. Another must-visit spot where cherry blossom-lined walkways and cascading branches are available is Chestnut Street and Penn’s Landing, where vibrant waterfront cafes and restaurants can be found. Show more
When is the best time to visit Fairmount Park for its cherry blossoms?
Known as the largest landscaped urban park globally, Fairmount Park is the place to be for cherry blossom admirers in Philadelphia. The best time to visit Fairmount Park for its cherry blossoms is around mid-April. This time coincides with the annual Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Visitors can take a picturesque walk from Boathouse Row along Kelly Drive and enjoy stunning views of groves of pink cherry trees on the banks of the Schuylkill River. Show more
