Find Cherry Blossoms on Long Island: Cherry Blossom Festivals and Where to See the Blooms
Spring has finally arrived on Long Island bringing with it a glorious burst of colorful cherry blossoms. These are perfect days to explore some of the area's family-friendly gardens and Long Island's excellent state parks, where displays of delicate pink cherry blossoms and a host of other springtime trees and flowers are in full bloom.
A visit to any one of the beautiful gardens listed below lets your kids experience the vibrancy of the season, learn about Long Island's distinct springtime fauna and flora, and explore the wonders of nature.
Searching for more seasonal splendor? It can be as simple as taking a walk around your hometown to see what’s happening in your neighbors’ front gardens. Or pile the kids in the car and set off on a family day trip to one of the many cherry blossom-filled parks in New York City.
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Cherry Blossom Festivals on Long Island in 2022
Arbor Day Family Festival at Planting Fields Arboretum – Oyster Bay
Saturday, April 30
An original Gold Coast estate, Planting Fields sits on more than 400 acres, boasting formal gardens, hiking trails, and beautiful plantings. This year’s annual Arbor Day Family Festival features activities for the entire family, including a petting zoo, live entertainment, and a visit from Smokey the Bear. Admission is $25 per car.
RELATED: 25 Fun Spring Activities for Long Island Kids
The Sakura Matsuri: Cherry Blossom Festival takes place at Stony Brook University’s Charles B. Wang Center. Photo courtesy of the festival
Sakura Matsuri: Cherry Blossom Festival – Stony Brook
Saturday, May 7
Celebrating all things Japanese, this daylong festival takes place rain or shine at Stony Brook University’s Charles B. Wang Center. Cultural exhibits, children’s activities, and live events are planned, including Japanese dance and music performances, origami workshops, manga drawing, and more. Admission includes all workshops and theater performances. Advance registration is required: $30 for adults, $20 for seniors and students, and $10 for children 6-12. Children 5 and younger are FREE.
RELATED: Best of April: Awesome Things To Do in Long Island With Kids
Walk the Village of Greenport with masks and stay socially distant to view the lovely blooms. Photo courtesy of the Greenporter Hotel
Greenport Cherry Blossom Festival – Greenport
April 19-June 1, 2022
Visit this charming village on Long Island’s North Fork for a peek at the dozens of gorgeous cherry blossoms that line the streets. Pick up a map at the AgroCouncil Information Center located in the Greenporter Hotel Lobby or from any local shop or restaurant and your family can take the FREE self-guided tour to find and identify the different species of trees located throughout the village.
Season-Long Destinations to See More Blooms and Cherry Blossoms on Long Island
Hofstra University Arboretum – Hempstead
The nearly 245-acre campus was officially recognized as an arboretum in 1985. Families are welcome to walk the campus to view what’s in bloom this spring.
When visiting the lovely blooms at the Bailey Arboretum, don't miss the majesty of Munnysunk Hollow. Photo courtesy of the arboretum
Bailey Arboretum – Lattingtown
Located on the north shore of Nassau County, this 42-acre arboretum is open on weekends from 9am-5pm. Ponds, fields, and a nature walk inspire children to explore the great outdoors. The admission fee is $5 per car, $2 for walk-ins, and additional fees apply for activities.
Old Westbury Gardens – Old Westbury
An abundance of blooming spring plants and trees, including four brand new cherry blossoms, attracts adults and children to this 200-acre former estate in Nassau County. The Gardens and the Café in the Woods are both open to visitors. Little ones can unplug and reconnect with nature during special spring break sessions. General admission to the house and gardens is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and college students, and $8 for children ages 7-17. Children 6 and younger are FREE. Reservations are required and can be booked via their website.
For more spring adventures, check out our Family Activity Calendar and our Spring Fun Guide.
Originally published in 2017; this post is updated annually.