Quick Details
Adult
$ 35
Child
5-12 years old
$ 20
Private Tour
$ 250
Tour Overview
Each spring, Cleveland Park comes alive with one of DC’s most spectacular cherry blossom displays, offering a serene alternative to the crowds at the Tidal Basin. Home to the largest concentration of cherry trees in the city, this historic streetcar suburb transforms into a pink-and-white wonderland that perfectly frames the neighborhood’s eclectic architecture. From the Gothic Revival towers of the Washington National Cathedral to turreted Victorians, storybook cottages, and early modernist homes, the blossoms bring new life and seasonal perspective to every street and garden.
Perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and architecture enthusiasts alike, this tour reveals the beauty and charm of Cleveland Park in peak bloom—Washington’s best-kept springtime secret.
What We’ll See
We begin outside the Washington National Cathedral, where soaring Gothic spires and intricate stonework are beautifully framed by blooming cherry trees. In the Bishop’s Garden, we’ll wander among seasonal blossoms, peek inside a picturesque gazebo, discuss historic plantings, and discover peaceful nooks perfect for photos.
Strolling through the leafy streets of Cleveland Park, we’ll admire turreted Queen Anne mansions, Dutch Colonials, cozy Arts & Crafts bungalows, and mid-century landmarks like the William Slayton House by I.M. Pei. Along the way, we’ll visit Rosedale, a rare surviving remnant of the neighborhood’s rural past, and pause at the former site of Grover Cleveland’s summer estate, Oak View. Cherry trees line many of these historic streets, creating a canopy of pink and white petals over early 20th-century homes.
Our walk concludes near McLean Gardens, once a grand Gilded Age estate and later redeveloped into a unique apartment complex, offering a final opportunity to enjoy blossoms against a backdrop of eclectic architecture and lush gardens.
Tour Highlights
- Washington National Cathedral (from the outside)
- Bishop’s Garden
- Site of Grover Cleveland’s Summer House
- Rosedale Conservancy
- William Slayton House
- McLean Gardens
Private & Group Tours
Private tours are available any day, time, and for groups of all sizes, from solo travelers and families to a full busload! Check our private bookings calendar to reserve a private walking tour for groups of up to twelve people. For times not listed online, groups larger than twelve, driving tours, or custom itineraries tailored just for you, get in touch, and we’ll help plan the perfect tour. This tour is offered during bloom, but Cleveland Park is beautiful year-round! Check out our Cleveland Park: Spires & Streetcars walking tour to explore the area outside bloom time.
Where to Meet
Find your guide outside the main entrance to the Washington National Cathedral, near the glass elevators.
GPS Address: 3101 Wisconsin Avenue NW Washington, DC 20016
Your tour will end near the intersection of Wisconsin Avenue and Idaho Avenue.
Map of the Tour Route
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this tour be booked privately?
Yes! Private versions of this tour are available at flexible times during the bloom season. Check our private bookings calendar or contact us directly to reserve outside the listed times, for groups of 13 or more, or to arrange a customized driving tour. If you’d like to tour Cleveland Park when the cherry trees are not in bloom, check out our Cleveland Park: Spires & Streetcars walking tour!
Do we go inside the National Cathedral?
Our tour focuses on the exterior and grounds of the Cathedral. If you’d like to tour the interior, please let us know, and we can provide information on separate ticketed tours. We also offer private tours of the interior!
How strenuous is the route?
The route is mostly flat, following paved sidewalks and cobblestone paths, with a few sets of stairs and a gradual incline. While the stairs can be navigated with strollers, some areas of the gardens may be difficult for wheelchair users.
Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes! The moderate pace and enchanting blossoms make this tour especially enjoyable for children. While the gardens can be a bit tricky with strollers, they’re manageable.
What should I bring on the tour?
We recommend sturdy walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and bottled water.
Are there bathroom stops on this tour?
Restrooms are available at the National Cathedral before our tour, but there are no other public restrooms along the route. We end near a variety of coffee shops and restaurants.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins in front of the National Cathedral near the exterior glass elevators and ends at the intersection of Wisconsin Avenue and Idaho Avenue.
How do I get to the starting location?
By Metro: The Cleveland Park Station (Red Line) is about a 25-minute walk from the Cathedral.
By Bus: The D70, D80, and D90 metro bus lines stop at the National Cathedral.
By Car: Street parking is limited and restricted to a maximum of two hours, though not fastidiously enforced. The National Cathedral has a parking garage located at 3101 Wisconsin Avenue NW.
Is tipping expected?
Thanks for asking! Gratuities are never required but are always appreciated. Our guides work hard to provide a fun and memorable experience!
What if it rains?
Tours run rain or shine. In the case of severe weather (such as thunderstorms or extreme heat), we’ll notify you by email and text at least 2 hours before your tour with any changes or cancellations.
How can I contact my guide on the day of the tour?
Your guide will email you the day before with their cell phone number for day-of coordination.
