Cherry Blossoms in Central Park: Our Morning at Cherry Hill
Tips, timing, and what to expect during peak cherry blossom season in Central Park
Okay, waking up this morning was rough. We had plans to get up early to take family photos with the cherry blossoms in Central Park before the crowds arrived.
I knew we were doomed when the baby woke up at 3am and Will barged into the room to tell me he was still awake. What?! Turns out he was working on some interactive map that required coding and got completely sucked into it.
I assumed our early morning plans were shot, but here’s the thing about having a baby: there’s no snooze button. Once it’s 6:30am, you only have yourself to blame. If Little Boss wants to get up, you get up! Needless to say, we vowed (again) that we’d never make that mistake again.
Anyway, with the baby already up, we thought, “what the heck,” let’s go see the cherry blossoms at Cherry Hill. If you’ve never been, Cherry Hill is that gentle slope just above Bow Bridge, tucked beside the Lake.
The weather was surprisingly mild (a nice change of pace from the gray clouds that have taken permanent residence above the city), so we packed light and made our way out the door with a stroller and americanos in hand.
There’s a small window when the cherry blossoms in Central Park are at their best. Today, we definitely hit the sweet spot.
Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Central Park
There are a few key spots in the park known for cherry blossoms, but Cherry Hill is my personal favorite. The Yoshino trees here are usually among the first to bloom, and when they do, it’s a sight to behold.
Other great bloom spots include:
Pilgrim Hill (east side, around 72nd Street, pictured above): A go-to for photographers and picnicker.
The Reservoir Loop (between 86th and 96th): These trees bloom a bit later, making it the perfect second act if you miss the early blossoms downtown.
Tips for Visiting During Cherry Blossom Season
Timing is everything: Peak bloom can be tricky to predict, but early-to-mid April is usually a safe bet. This year (2025), it looks like the Yoshino trees peaked around April 12–14.
Early mornings are best: The crowds are smaller, and if you’re a parent, you’re probably up anyway.
Pack a picnic—or at least a pastry: There’s something satisfying about admiring the blossoms with a treat in hand. (We grabbed treats from Levain on the way over).
Avoid weekends if you can: Unless you enjoy picnicking shoulder-to-shoulder with a hundred other blossom-chasers. Weekday mornings are the move.
If you’re hoping to catch the blossoms, now’s the time! Cherry Hill is peaking, and the trees around the Reservoir are just starting to pop. It’s worth an early morning stroll if you can swing it.
And if you’re not local, bookmark this for next year. Central Park in April is something else.
P.S. Do you have a favorite cherry blossom spot in the city? Hit reply and let me know. I’ll be making the rounds this week.
Cheers!
Antonina
I am a New Yorker, now living in Texas. Some of those photographs are sensational! Is it possible to buy one or two? (Dhalma Cacciola, Arlington, TX)
This post made me so happy! Love seeing those gorgeous blooms!