Quick Details
Adult
$ 38
Child
5-12 years old
$ 25
Private Tour
$ 250
Tour Overview
Each spring, Washington DC’s iconic cherry trees transform the Tidal Basin into a breathtaking landscape of pink and white blossoms. This fleeting spectacle, when over 3,000 trees burst into bloom, has become one of the city’s most beloved traditions and a lasting symbol of international friendship.
On this tour, we’ll experience the blossoms at their best while exploring the design and symbolism of the memorials they frame. From the bold vision behind the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial to the sprawling Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the classical grandeur of Thomas Jefferson’s temple, we’ll uncover how architecture, history, and landscape converge around the Basin. Along the way, we’ll learn the fascinating story of the cherry trees themselves and discover views and details most visitors miss.
What We’ll See
We begin with a visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial to examine the dramatic symbolism of the Tidal Basin’s newest landmark. From the towering “Stone of Hope” to carved quotations and subtle water features, we’ll explore the memorial’s meaning and discuss the controversial design competition that brought it to life. As we stroll the shoreline, we’ll trace the story of the cherry trees—living monuments to friendship between Japan and the United States—and how they came to line the Basin.
Our path continues to the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, one of the largest presidential memorials in the country. Designed as a series of outdoor “rooms,” the waterfalls, sculptures, and inscriptions immerse visitors in the life of America’s longest-serving president, blending political legacy and personal struggle on a monumental scale.
We’ll pause at a 17th-century Japanese Pagoda and discuss the ongoing project to rebuild the Basin’s sinking seawall — essential to protecting both the cherry trees and memorials. Our tour wraps up at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, a textbook neoclassical landmark rising dramatically from the water’s edge, with a few secrets of its own. Along the way, we’ll uncover hidden perspectives and overlooked stories that reveal a deeper side to DC’s celebrated springtime spectacle.
Tour Highlights
- Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
- Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
- Japanese Pagoda
- Seawall Restoration Project
- The Pentagon (from a distance)
- Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Private & Group Tours
Private tours are available any day and time, and for groups of all sizes—from solo travelers and families to a full bus load! Check our private bookings calendar to reserve a walking tour for groups of up to twelve people. For times not listed online, groups larger than twelve, driving tours, or custom itineraries, please get in touch and we’ll help plan the perfect tour.
Where to Meet
Meet your guide outside the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Bookstore.
GPS Address: 121 West Basin Drive SW, Washington, DC 20004
Your tour will end at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
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. 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 driving tour.
How strenuous is the route?
The tour covers about 1 mile at a modest pace on flat sidewalks and paved paths. It is fully wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. There may be crowds to navigate!
Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely! Guests of all ages will love exploring the Tidal Basin and enjoying the cherry blossoms with our engaging guides.
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?
There are public restrooms at our meeting point at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Bookstore and at the Jefferson Memorial.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins outside the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Bookstore, across from the memorial (121 West Basin Drive SW) and ends at the front steps of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
How do I get to the starting location?
By Metro: Smithsonian Station (Orange/Blue/Silver line) is a 20-minute walk from our starting point at the MLK Memorial Bookstore.
By Car: We do not recommend driving to the Tidal Basin during bloom time! Parking is extremely limited, and traffic can be a nightmare. Opt for public transport or taxis/ride shares. Please allow plenty of time to get to the meeting location on busy weekends.
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.
