The sun is shining brightly, the air is crisp, and a pink and white sea of blossoms sway gently in the breeze. Spring has arrived in the D.C. area, and with it, the annual blooming of the cherry blossoms—a sight attracting thousands of visitors yearly. Whether you’ve been an Arlington resident your entire life or are just looking for an excuse to get outside, seeing the cherry blossoms during peak bloom is one of the most famous things the region offers.

These delicate flowers have a long history in the area. In 1912, Japan gifted over 3,000 cherry trees to the United States as a symbol of friendship, and since then, the trees have flourished along the Tidal Basin, framing some of D.C.’s most famous landmarks. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, which typically lasts about four weeks, celebrates this history with events ranging from massive parades to lantern walks. While the blossoms only last for a short period—usually no more than a week at their peak—their fleeting beauty makes them so special.

Residents of Arlington will find it easy to make it to the city to see the cherry blossoms. The most stress-free option is taking the Metro—both the Orange and Blue lines offer quick access to the National Mall, with the closest stops being Smithsonian or L’Enfant Plaza. Driving is possible but not recommended unless you’re okay with circling for a parking spot for what feels like an eternity. If you’re in the mood to exercise, pedaling over the Key Bridge or along the Mount Vernon Trail is a beautiful and pleasant way to get there.

Once you’ve had your fill of the blossoms, there’s plenty more to do in the area. The National Mall is lined with world-class museums, most of which are free to enter, so you can balance out the outdoor sightseeing with some indoor exploration. If you’re looking for food, there’s no shortage of restaurants in nearby neighborhoods like Penn Quarter or The Wharf. Check out the U.S. Botanic Garden or take a walk around Roosevelt Island in Arlington to keep the nature vibes going.

I went to see the cherry blossoms twice this year—once at sunrise and once in the afternoon—both during peak bloom. The early morning visit was peaceful, with hardly any crowds around the Tidal Basin, making walking comfortably and taking great pictures without interruption easy. The afternoon visit, on the other hand, was anything but relaxing. Tourists packed the walkways, many lost and standing in the way of once-accessible photo spots. Loud music filled the air, conversations drowned out the area’s natural sounds and the food trucks lining the streets masked the delicate scent of the blossoms. The over-tourism and noise completely undercut what should have been a scenic, serene experience.

So, are the cherry blossoms worth it? Honestly, no. The flowers are beautiful, but there are plenty of other places to see them without the overwhelming crowds. The sheer number of tourists makes the experience more stressful than enjoyable, turning what should be a peaceful springtime tradition into an exhausting battle for space.

Even though my experience with the cherry blossoms wasn’t great, I still recommend visiting, especially if you’re new to the area or have never seen them before. Whether you go for the Instagram-worthy photos, the historical significance, or simply to enjoy the arrival of spring, it’s an experience that never feels old. Just be prepared for the crowds, as you won’t be the only one with this idea.