PVSC Cherry Blossom Walk

The official Cherry Blossom Festival starts the end of March. Peak period of cherry blossom bloom is predicted for April 8-12. Plenty of blooms will be out earlier. Come join us for a walk starting at the base of the Washington Monument grounds near the restrooms. We plan to walk across the Monument grounds and around the Tidal Basin. This will be a walk with lots of stops for photos and petting with the tourists. Some of us "dress" our Sammies with a little pink to celebrate the season. Do some or all of the walk. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water for you and your dogs. I suggest you wear a hat or apply sunscreen as well. And don't forget your camera! A Samoyed in front of the cherry blossoms makes a great pic. Below is some guidance on parking, restrooms, and where to buy snacks if you don't plan to bring your own.

Parking can be challenging during the popular blossom period. Arriving early enhances the likelihood of finding free parking along the Mall, Constitution Avenue NW,Ohio Drive SW, Hains Point or the Tidal Basin.

There should be ample free parking around the Capitol Reflecting Pool (where Tam will be parking) at the east end of the Mall, but that’s a one mile walk to the Washington Monument.

There are also parking garages within walking distance, including:

Ronald Reagan International Trade Building: 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Colonial owns many parking garages in Washington, DC. Some of the closest locations to the National Mall include:

•1201 Pennsylvania Ave NW

•1101 Pennsylvania Ave NW

•601 Pennsylvania Ave NW

•122 C St NW

•409 3rd St SW

•400-430 10th S SW

There are kiosks with dog-friendly outdoor seating along the Mall and at the Lincoln Memorial that sell refreshments and food (hot dogs, hot pretzels, etc.).

There are public restrooms at the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, FDR Memorial, MLK Memorial, the World War II Memorial and all the Smithsonian museums.