Cherry Blossoms in Wisconsin: When They Bloom and Where to See Them

Cherry blossoms bloom fleetingly in spring, symbolizing the ephemeral nature of life. However, they’re also a symbol of renewal, symbolizing the season of spring, when nature reawakens following winter months. In Wisconsin, there are awe-inspiring displays throughout the state but some spots are worth flocking to.

When Do Cherry Blossoms Bloom in Wisconsin?

Gorgeous shades of pink litter Wisconsin when spring rolls around with approximately 2,500 acres of orchards brimming around the Door County peninsula with cherry blossoms. These delicate pink and white flowers are on full display in the middle of May and are followed by surging pink flowers on apple trees toward the end of May. After the dazzling cherry blossom display, cherries are ripe for picking from mid-July to mid-August.

Cherry Blossom Hotspots in Wisconsin

Although the entire state sees cherry blossoms every year, there are a few hotspots worth mentioning.

Driftless Area in southwestern Wisconsin

This area is just under 25,000 square miles and covers the southwestern part of Wisconsin along with portions of surrounding states, including Iowa and Minnesota. There are small orchards throughout the state of Wisconsin, and this is one of the spots where locals and tourists can enjoy cherry blossoms as they cover the landscape every spring.

Bayfield on Lake Superior

Cherries have been cultivated in Bayfield for years and visitors can pick their own. Some residents maintain their own orchards while others run entire berry farms that they open to the public. Visitors have several options in Bayfield.

Hauser’s Superior View Farm

This family greenhouse has been in existence for five generations. They have an orchard along with a nursery and a cidery on Lake Superior’s shores. Visitors can pick up tart/pie cherries or pick up the pre-picked variety. Over 30 acres, they are home to 2,000 different fruit trees. It’s worth a visit twice throughout the year — the first time to enjoy the cherry blossoms and the second time to take a bit of the fruit home with you.

Madison Arboretum, University of Wisconsin

In this arboretum, visitors can check out not just cherry blossoms, but also several native wildflowers and trees that bloom during spring. It’s a wonderful day trip that delivers a gorgeous visual display in a peaceful sitting.

Cherry Blossom Festival in Door County

Head east in Wisconsin to Door County to get some of the most impressive cherry blossom views. This county has fertile soil and the perfect climate to grow cherries. It’s imperative you get the timing right, however, as this environment is only glittering for two weeks out of the year. Seaquist Orchards is a great go-to spot, but you can also check out Cherry Lane just south of Sturgeon Bay.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Harald007