The beauty of New York City becomes even more remarkable during springtime. Daffodils pop up, Magnolia trees decorate the gardens, and Callery Pears dominate the landscape with their marvellous white blooms. However, the true star of the season is undoubtedly the Cherry Blossom.
Cherry trees of all varieties can be spotted across the five boroughs—in parks, botanical gardens, and even lining neighborhood streets. If you are looking for the best places to catch the cherry blossoms in NYC, our up-to-date guide highlights the most breathtaking spots you simply cannot miss during peak bloom.
Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens
Flushing Meadows Corona Park is one of the most iconic spots in the city to enjoy the spring foliage. Especially around the Unisphere (the massive stainless steel globe), you can find stunning Okame cherry trees. These are typically the first cherries to bloom in the city, usually putting on their show from late March to early April.
Central Park, Manhattan
It’s no surprise that Central Park makes the list. While the park is famous for its iconic bridges and historic architecture, the spring bloom is a major attraction in its own right. Central Park boasts a wide variety of Cherry trees, and walking around the Reservoir is your best chance to spot them in massive clusters. Enter the park from East 79th Street and head south for a stunning walk surrounded by fluffs of white and pink petals. Cherry Hill is another perfect spot to witness their glory.
Brookfield Place, Manhattan
Located in Lower Manhattan, Brookfield Place is a towering waterfront complex offering high-end shopping and dining. Right outside, you will find Pumphouse Park, which boasts beautiful Yoshino cherry trees that can even be admired from the food hall inside the building. Later in the season, around mid-April, vibrant tulips also start to pop up along the waterfront, making it a perfect double-feature for flower lovers.
Hunter’s Point South (LIC), Queens
This beautifully designed park on the edge of Long Island City has something special that many New Yorkers aren’t even aware of (besides offering arguably the best view in the city). Right next to the LIC Landing Cafe, a circle of Yoshino cherry trees frames the Manhattan skyline, making it even more glorious with pink petals sweeping across the foreground. If you head north past the playground, you will also find the historic LIC train tracks decorated with beautiful spring tulips.
Roosevelt Island
Roosevelt Island is no secret to New Yorkers or tourists, yet surprisingly, it remains relatively uncrowded during springtime. That’s a shame, because the island’s landscape architecture was meticulously planned, resulting in pathways packed with blooming cherry trees.
For Kwanzan cherries (blooming mid to late April), walk along the West Loop Road.
For early-blooming Okame cherries (late March to early April), take a stroll along the East Loop Road.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn
Last but certainly not least, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is the true pearl on our list. Located right next to Prospect Park, it features dedicated areas with promising names: Cherry Walk, Cherry Esplanade, and the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. It’s hard to put into words the breathtaking landscapes you will experience here from early April through May. The official website even provides a daily cherry blossom tracking map, ensuring you plan your visit precisely during peak bloom: BBG Cherry Watch.
