Overview
West Potomac Park is a large, National Park Service managed park located in Washington, D.C. It features the iconic Tidal Basin, the Jefferson Memorial, and numerous walking and biking paths. The park is a popular destination for cherry blossom viewing in the spring.
West Potomac Park is significant for its historical monuments and the annual cherry blossom festival, which attracts visitors from around the world.
Location
Address
2912 Independence Ave. SW, Washington DC
Neighborhood: National Mall
Coordinates
38.882525, -77.038179
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better photo opportunities
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • cherry blossoms
- • Tidal Basin
summer
hot and humid
- • extended daylight
- • outdoor concerts
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall foliage
- • cooler weather
winter
cold, possible snow
- • holiday decorations
- • winter landscapes
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check cherry blossom forecast
- Bring comfortable shoes
- Carry water in summer
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (extensive walking)
- • stay hydrated in summer
- • protect against sun exposure
Medical facilities: nearby hospitals
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • not typically required, but popular during cherry blossom season
- • official NPS website
- • not applicable
- • not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
NPS App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Park maps, Event schedules, Cherry blossom updates
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, cafes
Charging Stations: Visitor centers
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historically significant, beautiful in spring, peaceful for walks and jogs
Historical Significance: Home to iconic monuments and the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival, a gift from Japan
Insider Tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best photos without crowds
- The best food stalls are near the Jefferson Memorial
Local Recommendations
- • Try a cherry blossom-themed treat at a nearby cafe
- • Visit the park with a local guide for historical insights
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Tidal Basin
Best Time: sunrise or sunset
Tips: wide-angle for blossoms and monuments
Result: stunning shots of cherry blossoms and reflections
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
National Mall
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Historical Site
Jefferson Memorial
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Monument
Lincoln Memorial
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Monument
Smithsonian Museums
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Museums
Reviews
Based on 20,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit during cherry blossom season"
- "Go early to avoid crowds"
- "Comfortable shoes are a must"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
0
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
20,000
Adult Entry
Free