When is the best time to visit the cherry blossoms? (Bethesda: daycares, hotels)

[KodakMoment]

I'd love to take a mini vacation this spring to come see the sights around DC. We plan on staying in Rockville right next to metro. When would you say is the best time to see the blooms at the peak? Also, me might be bringing our dog so does anyone know a good doggy daycare?

[scoutsadie]

Here is the official festival website:

Official National Cherry Blossom Festival Website (http://www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/events/eng/event_search.php3?event_category=A - broken link)

[PenguinSix]

I like 1-2 days before the official 'peak bloom' because I think they are usually at their whitest and prettiest just before they turn pink. I also think it is a bit less crowded as some people have it in their head to visit on the official 'peak' day.

That said, you never really know. It depends a great deal on the weather over the next month or two and it can be very unpredictable. I remember I once planned a trip to Tokyo to see the Cherry Blossoms. Everything was going according to plan--finally bought my ticket (two week notice) and then, boom, a cold snap came through. I ended up leaving Japan just as the first few trees were starting to bloom (oh well, excuse to go again).

My other advice is to try and visit during the week if at all possible. Avoid Sat/Sun like the plague. Also get a car so you can see some of the other Cherry Blossom areas in DC, like Hains Point and I think there is one in Bethesda/Chevy Chase(?).

[fishfister]

I have one in my back yard.

[rmathur5]

Hi,

Excellent idea. The time varies from end of Feb to early March. You need to stay next to the White House because thats where all the action is. That way you don't need a car and can just walk around the monuments and around Potomac river.

There is a Mariott on Pennsylvania Avenue and a few hotels that you can find out from google. The price around $250.00 per day is well worth it.

Good luck!


Rakesh

[Njrover0216]

I would watch the weather and plan accordinly. I would definitely avoid weekends as well. As far as doggy daycare it depends on where you plan on staying. You can always make a nice trip out of it and stay in Annapolis and that way you could see Annapolis and DC. If you stay in Annapolis, Crownsville has some very nice doggy daycares. Oppps I just read that you are going to be staying in Rockville, I do not know much about that area...way too busy for me