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[title]It’s officially spring! The blooms are emerging, it’s warm enough to stroll around and summer’s on the horizon. And on April 12 and 13, London will become even prettier thanks to a beautiful cherry blossom pop-up at King’s Cross Station, created by Brand USA and Destination DC.
Why cherry blossoms, you ask? The United States’ capital city is actually famous for its cherry blossom season. Washington, DC’s annual National Cherry Blossom Festival, March 20 to April 14 this year, commemorates the gift of more than 3,000 cherry blossom trees to Washington, DC by the mayor of Tokyo in 1912. During this time, the city lights up with events like Petalpalooza and the Blossom Kite Festival, celebrating the bond between American and Japanese cultures.
Get a taste of this spectacular festival at King’s Cross Station from April 12-13. Walk among the cherry blossoms, take part in an interactive quiz to discover your “There’s Only One Washington, DC” experience – and perhaps most importantly, take a selfie with the Instagrammable selfie wall. Upload and tag your selfie for your chance to experience Washington, DC for yourself. Be sure to add the hashtags #CitybreakDC24, #Only1DC and #VisitTheUSA in your post.
And while you’re at the pop-up, spin to win instant prizes and take home a piece of Washington, DC with you.
Why Washington, DC?
There are so many reasons to visit this diverse and vibrant city beyond its cherry blossom season. No other place combines more than 100 free things to do, world-class dining, acclaimed arts and culture, must-watch pro sports, thousands of acres of green space and a National Mall with the country’s most beloved monuments and memorials.
Of course, it’s known for its history and culture; you’ll likely be familiar with the Lincoln Memorial but whether you visit the free Smithsonian museums, take in the National Museum of Women in the Arts (the world’s only major art museum of its kind), experience the Library of Congress (the largest library in the world) or take a tour of the famous memorials along the National Mall, you’ll find plenty to see and do.
For outdoorsy types, not only is there Rock Creek Park, the country’s oldest urban national park, but the District’s two rivers, the Potomac and the Anacostia mean there’s a host of waterfront neighbourhoods and activities that range from leisurely boat cruises to paddleboarding and kayaking. There are also stunning trails for cycling or hiking, including the Mount Vernon Trail and the Capital Crescent Trail.
If taking in the scenery with a glass of something cool and refreshing is more your thing, you’re in luck: Washington, DC is home to some fabulous rooftop bars. Check out Smoke & Mirrors in Navy Yard, Roofers Union in Adams Morgan, Hi-Lawn in NoMa, the Rooftop at the Thompson at The Wharf and VUE Rooftop in the Downtown area.
Nightlife is far from neglected with a thriving music scene, particularly in the Shaw and U Street neighbourhoods. Rock legend Dave Grohl is even part-owner of a music venue – Black Cat – but whether you prefer smooth jazz or hip-hop, there’s a place for you. Afterwards you can head to the hip 14th Street for a cheeky cocktail, known for ace restaurants, bars and shops.
Inspired to visit Washington, DC?
Truly, there is only one Washington, DC. Discover more about this exciting destination here and check out special travel packages curated for you on the Washington, DC microsite by its tour operator partners: American Sky, Dialaflight, Click and Go, Trailfinders and Barrhead Travel.
Make sure you head to King’s Cross Station on April 12-13 for your chance to win a dream trip. Or, if you can’t make it to the pop-up at King’s Cross, there’s still a chance to win big. Enter here to win a hotel stay and Washington, DC experiences for two, hand-picked by the Destination DC team. Good luck!