“Springtime in Seattle is a reminder that even the rainiest cities get their moment in the sun—literally and figuratively. And nothing signals the start of spring in the Emerald City quite like the soft pink and white clouds of cherry blossoms.” – Unknown
Seattle’s cherry blossoms are more than just a seasonal spectacle—they’re a cultural tradition, a photographer’s dream, and a reminder that warmer, longer days are ahead. Whether you’re a longtime local or new to the area, catching the cherry blossoms in Seatle in full bloom is a must-do.
What to Expect in This Guide:
- The best cherry blossom viewing locations in Seattle
- Peak bloom timing and tips to beat the crowds
- A look at Seattle’s Cherry Blossom Festival
- Why this seasonal beauty can impact real estate trends in Seattle
Now, let’s dive into the top 10 places to see cherry blossoms in Seattle this spring!
1. University of Washington Quad
📍 Location: University of Washington, Seattle
If there’s one place in Seattle synonymous with cherry blossoms, it’s the UW Quad. Home to 29 Yoshino cherry trees that are over 90 years old, this location becomes a stunning pink-and-white wonderland in early spring.
Pro Tips:
- Peak bloom: Late March to early April
- Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid the crowds
- Check UW’s cherry blossom bloom tracker for real-time updates
2. Washington Park Arboretum
📍 Location: 2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle
For a longer cherry blossom season, head to the Washington Park Arboretum. The variety of cherry tree species here means you can catch blossoms from mid-March through late April.
Must-See Spot:
- Take a stroll along Azalea Way, a half-mile pathway lined with cherry blossoms, dogwoods, and magnolias.
3. Seattle Japanese Garden
📍 Location: 1075 Lake Washington Blvd E, Seattle
Tucked inside the Washington Park Arboretum, the Seattle Japanese Garden is a peaceful escape. Featuring weeping cherry trees, koi ponds, and stone pathways, this is one of the most serene spots to enjoy cherry blossoms in Seattle.
Entry Fee: Small admission fee required (check the Seattle Japanese Garden website for hours and prices).
4. Seward Park
📍 Location: 5900 Lake Washington Blvd S, Seattle
Seward Park isn’t just for summer picnics—it’s also home to a hidden cherry blossom trail! The best part? You get stunning views of Mount Rainier and Lake Washington as you take in the blooms.
Best Spot: Near the park’s Japanese torii gate, a tribute to Seattle’s strong ties with Japan.
5. Jefferson Park
📍 Location: 3801 Beacon Ave S, Seattle
Located in the Beacon Hill neighborhood, Jefferson Park is less crowded than UW’s Quad but equally breathtaking. It features an open meadow lined with cherry trees and an amazing view of downtown Seattle.
6. Kobe Terrace Park
📍 Location: 650 S Main St, Seattle
This small but scenic park in the International District is dedicated to Seattle’s sister city, Kobe, Japan. It features a mix of cherry trees, Japanese lanterns, and a peaceful garden setting.
Fun Fact: Kobe Terrace Park’s cherry trees were a gift from Japan, symbolizing friendship between the two cities.
7. Green Lake Park
📍 Location: Green Lake Park, Seattle
One of Seattle’s most beloved parks, Green Lake is a perfect spot for a springtime walk under cherry blossoms. The trees near the Green Lake Bathhouse Theater are particularly beautiful in full bloom.
Fun Fact: The cherry trees at Green Lake were part of a larger donation of trees gifted to Seattle from Japan in the 1920s, strengthening the cultural ties between the two regions.
Pro Tip: Walk the 2.8-mile loop around the lake for multiple cherry blossom viewing spots, or rent a paddle boat to see the blooms from the water for a truly unique perspective.
8. Lake View Cemetery
📍 Location: 1554 15th Ave E, Seattle
Not your usual cherry blossom destination, but Lake View Cemetery offers a quiet, picturesque setting with some of Seattle’s most historic cherry trees.
Did You Know? Bruce Lee and his son Brandon Lee are buried here, making it a meaningful visit beyond just the blossoms.
9. Mount Baker Park
📍 Location: 2521 Lake Park Dr S, Seattle
For those who love lakeside scenery, Mount Baker Park offers cherry blossom-lined walking paths along Lake Washington. It’s a peaceful, family-friendly alternative to the busier spots in the city.
Hidden Gem Alert: The park features a small, secluded beach area, perfect for a quiet spring picnic under the blossoms.
Pro Tip: Visit just before sunset for a golden-hour glow on the blossoms with reflections of the lake—it’s one of the best-kept secrets for stunning cherry blossom photography in Seattle.
10. Volunteer Park
📍 Location: 1247 15th Ave E, Seattle
Volunteer Park is already a Seattle gem, but during cherry blossom season, it’s even more magical. The park’s winding paths and Seattle Asian Art Museum create a stunning backdrop for the pink blooms.
Bonus: Climb the historic Volunteer Park Water Tower for an aerial view of the blossoms!
Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival 2025
📍 Seattle Center
📅 April 11 – April 13, 2025
🌸 Website: cherryblossomfest.org
Seattle’s Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival is a three-day celebration that brings the beauty of cherry blossoms together with rich Japanese cultural traditions. As part of the Seattle Center Festál series, this free event honors the enduring friendship between Japan and the Pacific Northwest.
Festival Highlights
🎭 Stage Production: “Otokichi” – A special theatrical performance telling the true story of the first Japanese shipwreck survivors to arrive on Washington’s shores.ason.
🎶 Traditional Japanese Performances – Enjoy Taiko drumming, classical dance, and koto music, showcasing the artistry and history of Japan.
🍵 Tea Ceremonies & Cultural Exhibits – Experience the grace and precision of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, as well as interactive exhibits on calligraphy, ikebana (flower arranging), and origami.
🎨 Artisan Crafts & Food Stalls – Browse handmade Japanese crafts and indulge in authentic cuisine, including sushi, mochi, and ramen.
How Cherry Blossoms Impact Seattle Real Estate
Believe it or not, spring isn’t just cherry blossom season—it’s also home-selling season. Here’s why:
✅ Curb Appeal is Everything: A home with cherry trees in bloom makes for an eye-catching listing photo.
✅ Warmer Weather = More Buyers: Spring is prime time for selling homes in Seattle, as more buyers are actively searching.
✅ Better Lighting for Home Staging: More daylight means homes look their best in listing photos.
Thinking about selling your home in Seattle this spring? Check out our guide on getting your home ready for market for expert tips!
Final Thoughts on Cherry Blossoms in Seattle
Seattle’s cherry blossoms are a fleeting but magical sight, a reminder that beauty is often temporary, and that each season brings its own sense of renewal. These delicate pink and white blooms transform the city into an ethereal wonderland, drawing in both locals and visitors for a brief but spectacular display. Whether you catch them in the heart of the city at UW’s Quad or tucked away in the peaceful Seattle Japanese Garden, their presence signals the arrival of longer, sunnier days and the promise of spring adventures ahead.
Beyond their visual appeal, cherry blossoms hold a deeper significance. In Japanese culture, they symbolize the transient nature of life—an idea that resonates with the ever-changing rhythm of the seasons in the Pacific Northwest. Their brief bloom reminds us to slow down, step outside, and savor the simple, fleeting moments that make spring so special.
For photographers, nature lovers, and anyone simply looking for a moment of quiet beauty, Seattle’s cherry blossoms offer the perfect excuse to explore the city in a whole new light. Whether it’s a sunrise walk through Seward Park, a mid-day picnic under the trees at Green Lake, or an evening stroll through Kobe Terrace, there are countless ways to take in the magic of the season. And while the blossoms may only last a few weeks, their memory lingers, reminding us to embrace the present and appreciate the small wonders that surround us.
As the petals eventually drift away, making way for summer’s greenery, they leave behind a sense of renewal—one that stays with us long after the last blossom falls.
🌸 Thinking of selling your Seattle home this spring? Let’s talk about how to maximize your home’s curb appeal and market value. Contact us today!
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