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 credit: 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
Photo credit: Turf Valley Resort
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.
Blossoms of Hope Countywide Art Show
Howard County’s blossoms provide inspiration for artists, compelling visitors to join in the celebration with their painting supplies. Throughout March, the Blossoms Countywide Art Show will feature over 500 pieces of artwork, which will display at 14 locations throughout the county.
- Blossoms of Hope: March 1-31; at 6021 University Blvd, Ste 140, Ellicott City, 21043
- DoodleHATCH: March 1-June 30; The show will be a collection of painted wedding dresses that inspire hope at 8775 Cloudleap Ct Columbia, MD 2104
- The Artists’ Gallery of Ellicott City: February 26-March 30, Reception on March 2 from 2-5 pm; at 8197 Main St, Ellicott City, MD 21043
- Historic Savage Mill: February 29-March 31; at 8600 Foundry Street, Savage 20763
- Howard County Arts Council: February 14-March 30, Reception on February 21 from 6-8 pm with a snow date of February 28; at 8510 High Ridge Rd, Ellicott City, MD 21043
- The Collective Offshore and Encore: February 25-April 6; at 10221 Wincopin Circle (Ground floor, Lakefront entrance) Columbia, MD 21044
- The Bernice Kish Gallery at Slayton House: March 5-April 28, Reception on Sunday, March 9 from 3-5 pm; at 10400 Cross Fox Lane Columbia, MD 21044
- The Rouse Company Foundation Gallery at Howard Community College: March 1-21; at 5070 Campus Drive (use West Garage), Columbia, MD 21044
- North Laurel Community Center: February 26-April 1; at 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel, MD 20723
- Gary J. Arthur Community Center: March 1-30; at 2400 Route 97 Cooksville, MD 21723
- Bain 50+ Center: March 1-30; at 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia, MD 21044
- East Columbia 50+ Center: March 1-30; at 6610 Cradlerock Way, Columbia, MD 21045
- Ellicott City 50+ Center: March 1-30; at 9401 Frederick Road Ellicott City, MD 21042
- Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center: February 22-April 5; at 5755 Cedar Lane, Columbia 21044
This is the 20th anniversary of Blossoms of Hope, which has planted over 3,100 flowering cherry blossom trees across the county. Join the celebration on March 13th from 6 to 9 pm at the Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center at Howard Community College. The evening promises to be a vibrant mix of art, community, and spring blooms.
Save the Date for the Blossoms of Hope Countywide Art Show Reception
Register Here
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 credit: 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 26th from 12 pm to 6 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 credit: 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.
Photo credit: 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.