There’s something magical about spring’s first flowers. Fresh pops of pink, purple and white petals stretch skyward alongside branches of buds as if they’re waking up from a long nap. From growing up with a fragrant, tree-like lilac bush in my backyard to living just a short bus ride away from the famed cherry blossoms that ring the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC, it was always those first blooms of the season that let me know that spring had arrived at last. It is, no lie, one of my favorite times of the year.
In Japan, this blink-and-you’ll-miss-it celebration of blossoming trees is called hanami (花見), literally meaning “flower viewing.” This centuries-old tradition has been practiced since ancient times and encourages people to appreciate the blooms’ ephemeral and fleeting beauty, honor their symbology of hope and new beginnings, and reflect on the transience of life. And honestly, I can’t think of a better way to welcome in spring.
Where to Go Petal Peeping in Rochester, MN
When it comes to hanami, cherry blossoms are the ultimate star (though the custom originally began with ume, or plum blossoms). The soft, cloud-like flowers of the sakura symbolize renewal and are famously short-lived, making them even more special. However, while you might spot a few cherry blossoms around the greater Rochester, MN, area, they don’t exactly flourish in our climate. (Looking at you, Minnesota winters.)
But don’t worry — nature always has a backup plan. In Rochester and beyond, you’ll find a beautiful array of crabapples, magnolias, redbuds, serviceberries and more, all putting on a stunning springtime show. They typically make their glorious debut between late April and mid-May, depending on the weather, though some varieties can blossom later. (Bloom times can vary from year to year, so be patient and keep an eye on that weather forecast!) Happy flower hunting, friends!
Memorial Parkway
If you’ve ever driven along Memorial Parkway in May and thought, “Wait, what were those gorgeous trees??” — you’re not alone. This stretch of road near the Apache Mall is lined with crabapples and other flowering trees that create a canopy of pink and white down the middle when they’re in bloom. It’s definitely one of those roll-down-your-windows-and-drive-slow kind of experiences. From there, head up the hill to explore the grounds of the historic Plummer House, which are free to explore from sunrise to sunset, or continue on to St. Mary’s Park and more blossoming trees. Or, even better, do both!
St. Mary’s Park
Located across from Mayo Clinic’s St. Mary’s campus, small but mighty St. Mary’s Park boasts a lovely lineup of flowering trees in and around the area, as well as a sweeping view of Rochester. Along with a dramatic overlook, you’ll also find several different trees in bloom here, making it a peaceful (and photogenic) stop for a spring stroll or picnic or to get in touch with your inner child with a few minutes on the swings. The ride to the top of the hill and the park is just as enjoyable as the park itself, with many flowering trees dotting the neighboring blocks.
Quarry Hill Nature Center
If you prefer your petals to be a little on the wilder side (think nature trails and wildlife sightings), Quarry Hill Nature Center delivers. Crabapple trees bloom beautifully along some of the paths and near the pond area. With several trails that are relatively untraveled, it’s the perfect place for another Japanese custom called shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing,” during which you relax the mind and body by using all five senses to engage with the natural environment. (And no, you don’t need to take a mud bath or anything — this is all about observing and being present.) Bonus: You can hike up to the quarry and spot early wildflowers along the way, too.
Your Own Neighborhood!
You don’t even have to leave your own backyard to enjoy spring blooms. Many Rochester neighborhoods are home to hardy ornamental trees that thrive in our temperamental Minnesota climate. So, keep an eye out on your walks or bike rides. You might be surprised by how many blooming beauties are just around the block. Varieties to look for include:
- Crabapples – Beautiful blossoms that range from fluffy and white to deep pink and reddish
- Redbuds – Minnesota natives with blush pink to bright fuchsia blooms scattered along bare branches
- Magnolias – Early bloomers with large, lush flowers in hues of white, pink and yellow
- Japanese tree lilacs – Fragrant bunches of creamy white blossoms that flower in late spring to early summer
- Serviceberries – A Minnesota native with snowy white blooms that arrive around early spring
Where and When to Catch Spring’s Prettiest Show Outside Rochester
Hoping to have your own hanami experience with some actual cherry blossoms? Or perhaps you just can’t get enough petal peeping, no matter the tree. However you want to welcome in springtime this year, these nearby locations are well worth the drive when it comes to flower spotting.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum – Chanhassen
If you’re looking for a full-on spring floral extravaganza, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is the place to be. Their Crabapple Collection is the Arboretum’s largest, with 16 species, 120 cultivars, and 268 specimens in total. Talk about a bloom-tastic explosion of color! While peak bloom for the crabapples tends to arrive around Mother’s Day, you can also catch other flowering trees — like magnolias, catalpas, hawthorns and lilacs — throughout late April, the rest of May and into June. Be aware that crabapple season can draw massive crowds to the Arboretum, so keep that in mind if you’re planning on a Mother’s Day hanami session.
Como Park – St. Paul
Along with all the flora and fauna that call the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory home, this lively corner of St. Paul is also where you’ll find a grove of 30 cherry trees. These beautiful trees were given as a gift to the city from their sister city of Nagasaki, Japan, back in 2012 — 100 years after the Japanese government gave Washington, DC, their own iconic cherry trees. St. Paul even hosts its own annual Cherry Blossom Festival, typically in late April or early May, celebrating Japanese with cultural performances, food and crafts, all surrounded by these beautiful blooms. It’s the next best thing to jetting off to Tokyo, and it’s just an hour from Rochester.
Normandale Japanese Garden – Bloomington
Tucked away on the Normandale Community College campus, this serene Japanese Garden is a hidden gem. In spring, the garden’s crabapples and other flowering trees burst into soft pink and white blooms, reflecting beautifully off the pond and streams. With delicate bridges and koi fish waiting to be fed, it’s quiet, peaceful and perfect for a low-key afternoon of blossom viewing. And bonus! It’s completely free to enter (though donations are appreciated) from sunrise to sunset during the spring, summer and fall months.
Around Lake Winona – Winona
Two hours from the hustle and bustle of St. Paul and a very long flight from the lush gardens of Japan, Winona has quietly become a springtime superstar, thanks to the cherry trees that bloom in Lake Park around Lake Winona. Like those in St. Paul, these frilly cherry trees were a gift for the centennial celebration of the friendship between the US and Japan, given by Winona’s sister city of Misato, Japan. They have blossomed on the shores of Lake Winona every spring since. Timing can vary slightly depending on the weather, but early May is usually a safe bet for the best show. So, slip on some sneakers or grab a bike for a painterly jaunt around the water.
Quick Tips for Flower Watching
Want to see the blossoms at their best? Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your own hanami encounter around Rochester.
- Timing is everything! A warm and sunny spring means earlier blooms. Meanwhile, cooler, wetter weather can delay things a week or two, and a stiff wind can blow the petals off altogether.
- Be gentle! As tempting as it may be, please, for the love of all that is flowery, resist picking the blossoms. They’re fragile and for everyone to enjoy.
- Pack a picnic! Hanami is all about slowing down and soaking in the beauty. So, bring your family or some friends, roll out a blanket and stay a while.
Do you enjoy a little hanami during springtime? Leave a comment below!
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