When winter's snowy embrace fades, Howard County, Maryland awakens with endless possibilities. Parks and natural spaces come alive with the beauty of spring, and one standout feature of the local flora is the subtle elegance of cherry blossom groves. This beautification project began with The Founders Grove, located adjacent to Route 108 in Centennial Park in 2005. Since then, over 3,000 cherry blossoms have been planted in more than 52 groves throughout the county.
Blossoms of Hope Centennial Park Founders Grove (Photo by: Theresa Meeker Pickett)
If you're planning to visit the Tidal Basin Washington D.C. for their Yoshino cherry blossoms, be sure to make time for our elegant display of Kwanzan blossoms. Ours are a distinct variety that blooms around two weeks later than the ones in D.C., making them a perfect complement to your cherry blossom experience.
Planning a Cherry Blossom Getaway to Howard County, Maryland
See Howard County Cherry Tree Map Here
One of the best parts about visiting Howard County for a cherry blossom retreat is how easy the area is to navigate. Often, you’ll find free parking and scenic roads that aren’t overwhelmed with traffic. The area's hidden charm becomes immediately apparent as you encounter the over 300 blossoms planted along state and county roadways.
To make the most of your visit, use the Howard County Cherry Tree Map to plan your itinerary. This ensures you can enjoy several groves in one day while leaving plenty of time to savor the local amenities.
Where To Find Cherry Blossoms in Howard County
Start your exploration in Ellicott City, where Founder’s Grove at Centennial Park is marked with a “Blossoms of Hope Way” sign near the entrance, and you can walk through the grove to enjoy the blossoms up close.
Blossoms of Hope sign (Photo by: Theresa Meeker Pickett)
Markers next to the trees show that some are a reminder of local Howard County family members who have passed away. Cherry blossoms can be both a symbol of renewal and the fleeting nature of life, as the blossoms' beauty tends to have a short lifespan.
Continue your cherry blossom getaway in historic Ellicott City, where a stroll around the the Welcome Center provides scenic views of the Patapsco River and unique shopping experiences. Visit for Springfest, an unforgettable spring music festival on April 18th, 2026 from 12 pm to 8 pm. Wander through the charming streets lined with boutiques, discover one-of-a-kind antiques, and sample local brews as you take in the beauty of this historic town.
Springfest in Historic Ellicott City (Photo by: Theresa Meeker Pickett)
In Columbia, a city designed for walkers, cherry blossoms grace the landscapes around Lake Kittamaqundi, where The Legacy Grove is located. This grove is home to three trees that were grown from the saplings of the cherry trees gifted from Japan, which surround the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C.
In 2020, to pay respect to Howard County's front-line workers during COVID-19, the Hope Heroes Grove was planted, which added 12 cherry blossom trees and three relaxing benches to Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center.
Turf Valley Resort
Planning your cherry tree adventure? Make it a delightful getaway! Discover your ideal home away from home with a variety of options, including local resorts, bed and breakfasts, and hotels. Consider a stay at Turf Valley Resort, a haven with over 150 Blossoms of Hope trees on its grounds, offering a tranquil escape with unmatched amenities.
