Cherry Blossoms in our Nation’s Capital

“It may just be because I get homesick, but I have concluded Washington’s cherry blossoms are just plain overrated.” - Newt Gingrich

After hearing about it all my life, I finally decided to experience the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington D.C. I couldn’t have been luckier with the weather: endless blue sky, toasty sunrays, and fragrant awakening blossoms. Without the slightest regard to seasonal allergies, I marched into New York’s Penn Station and boarded the Amtrak Acela train service.

After a short and simple trip, I arrived at Washington’s Union Station, which was a refreshing experience after a gloomy Penn Station departure; the building has been carefully renovated and preserved to function appropriately for modern travelers.

Stepping outside I immediately felt the tiny and airy particles of pollen enter my body. I rushed to observe the beautiful colors of blossoms stretched along the thoroughfares of D.C. It truly takes a long but pleasing leisurely paced stroll to see the Nation’s Mall. I began my tour at noon in front of the White House, passing the Capital Building at three o’clock, and walking alongside the Holocaust Museum around six. I then strolled by the beautiful reflecting pool, ending with a climactic nine o’clock view of the Lincoln Memorial.

From New York, Washington, D.C. is near enough for a quick field trip, and one can find an abundant amount of inspiration; however, the cherry blossoms only happen once a year. It is a distinctive experience to stroll the grounds of the nation’s capital, not similar to a stroll around a local park. With grand boulevards topped with beautiful landscapes, visitors can be proud and quite possibly sense the new beginning of the branding of our government.