Years ago, we parked at Arlington National Cemetery and took a tour bus to see the cherry blossoms and did a monument tour.

I'm not sure if that's still available but it sure worked out nicely then.

Anonymous wrote:There really is not a best place to park. The Smithsonian Metro might be just as close as the Waterfont. Then the Circulator bus will bring you right down there. If you’re planning on being out for a half day anyway, please consider the transit option.

There is a free Wharf shuttle that runs between the Wharf and a stop by the Hirshhorn https://www.wharfdc.com/getting-here/southwest-shuttle/

We reserved a spot last weekend using parking panda but the crowds were so bad that we didn’t end up using it.

Anonymous wrote:There really is not a best place to park. The Smithsonian Metro might be just as close as the Waterfont. Then the Circulator bus will bring you right down there. If you’re planning on being out for a half day anyway, please consider the transit option.

The bike taxis might be a better way to get a small group into the thick of it. It's a bit congested even for a taxi.

There really is not a best place to park. The Smithsonian Metro might be just as close as the Waterfont. Then the Circulator bus will bring you right down there. If you’re planning on being out for a half day anyway, please consider the transit option.

I went jogging down there this morning for sunrise (6:30ish) and it was super busy already. The sidewalk was difficult to navigate and had to walk under the cherry trees mostly (not stroller friendly). In my honest, opinion...it's really not worth it. There are plenty of other places to see blooming cherry trees. If you want to see the MLK, Roosevelt, Jefferson, and other memorials too...come after the cherry blossoms are done.

Anonymous wrote:Hoping to go first thing in the morning around 8am. Taking grandparents (dad with parkinsons), 2yo in a stroller and elementary boys. I know one option I have is to park at the wharf, walk to see cherry blossoms and walk back for lunch.

Any better options? I would love the walk but not sure if my dad will make it.

I have done this before. I was 9 months pregnant, had a 2 YO in a stroller and a grandparent with us. I would recommend that you arrive earlier on Saturday - can you plan to park at 7:30 and street park on C or D SW? Planning for 30 minutes earlier will make a huge difference in your ability to get around.