We’re introducing a new segment for the blog this week called DC Like a Local, where we plan to showcase lesser-known establishments and points of interest here in the District. I’ve called DC home for five years now, and my family has called the District home for four generations, so I’m excited to share my experiences, as well as some from my friends in the area. Whether you’re just looking for a quiet place to get some work done while you wait for your bus/train/plane out of the city, or you’re here for a full-blown DC experience, I’m hoping to give you some alternatives that may be a little off the beaten path of the Mall, but are well worth the trip to find.

Since the National Parks Service just announced peak bloom for the cherry blossoms (March 17-20, 2018), I thought there would be no better first post in the segment than showing you my five favorite places to see the blossoms that won’t be overrun with people like the Tidal Basin.

1. The National Arboretum
   Just beyond the Capital Columns, you’ll find a plethora of flowering cherry trees. While a little difficult to get to via public transit, there is ample on-site parking available. The Arboretum boasts a large area and offers self-guided tours during the Cherry Blossom Festival. It’s definitely an introvert’s answer to the Tidal Basin.
   Cost: Free
2. Dumbarton Oaks
   Nestled on the edge of Georgetown sits a historic federal-period manor and garden which is home to a research library and museum, but more importantly, one of the most picturesque lawns with flowering cherry blossoms. While currently under renovation, the gardens are set to open on March 15th, just in time for this year’s peak bloom.
   Cost: $10
3. The National Zoo
   If you’re traveling with aspiring zoologists or veterinarians or grown-up animal lovers, the National Zoo can allow you to check off your cherry blossom viewing and a panda sighting all in one go. The neighborhood adjacent to the main entrance to the zoo has beautiful cherry trees on both sides of Connecticut Avenue and there are plenty of trees scattered throughout the park.
   Cost: Free
4. Lower Senate Park
   A hidden gem just behind the Capitol is Upper and Lower Senate Park. Both parks boast beautiful greenery with all of the grandeur of the capital building in the background. Upper Senate Park has a beautiful fountain, but Lower Senate Park is where you’ll find the larger concentration of cherry blossom trees.
   Cost: Free
5. Hains Point
   A favorite among cyclists and fisherman, Hains Point is an extension of West Potomac Park that juts out slightly into the river. There is a shared bicycling trail and not-oft traveled roadway that runs around the peninsula that is lined with cherry blossoms. This spot is perfect for folks looking to see the trees by bike, rather than by foot. The tip of the peninsula is also a fantastic picnic area!
   Cost: Free

That’s a wrap for my best alternatives to the National Mall and Tidal Basin. Are there any must-see spots I missed? Drop them or photos from your trip in the comments below.