WORDS & PICTURES: Brianna Cariola
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When I think of Washington DC, I immediately envision the monuments on the National Mall, the Smithsonian Museums, and an excitingly diverse food scene. But this past spring, I was surprised to discover that the US Capital is home to an abundance of stunning gardens and green spaces, each one a floral-filled escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Some of these places are quite popular, but all the more breathtaking when seen without crowds. Others are genuine local gems that feel like an untouched haven. Here is a glimpse of what awaits those who decide to spend spring in Washington DC; its most lush and colorful season.
TIDAL BASIN
One of the city’s most iconic events to celebrate springtime is, without a doubt, the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Attracting more than 1.5 million visitors each year are the 3000 cherry blossom trees lining the Tidal Basin, West Potomac Park, and around the Washington Monument. For dreamy, crowd-free photos of the flowers in peak bloom, simply use the photographer’s go-to trick and wake up early to shoot at sunrise. Braving the freezing temperatures of late March was worth it to watch the golden light reflect its warm, rich tones on the blossoms.
ENID A. HAUPT GARDEN
A few weeks before the cherry blossoms reach peak bloom, there’s another flower that colors Washington’s landscape: the magnolia. I spotted these trees everywhere around the city – from street corners in neighborhoods like DuPont Circle to a gorgeous spot by the Smithsonian museums, the Enid A. Haupt Garden. Brick paths weave around the well-kept grounds, while wooden benches beneath the wide magnolia branches invite you to sit and admire the views.
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DUMBARTON OAKS GARDEN
Dumbarton Oaks is truly something out of a European travel magazine. Stepping through the gates and walking uphill initially leads to a museum housing collections of Byzantine and Pre-Columbian artworks. The exterior of the adjacent orangery is covered with vines of blooming wisteria. Following the stone pathways downhill leads to the Pebble Garden, showcasing grand wisteria-covered trellises and an elegant sculpture-adorned fountain. I was surrounded by such an enchanting landscape, the delicate fragrance of the flowers enveloping me. While this blooming season is incredibly short-lived (just a few weeks in April), spring in Washington DC is definitely the perfect place to make the most of it.
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