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It’s springtime, boys and girls, and you know what means: the flowers are in bloom. So while it might be a cliche to stop and smell the roses, this is exactly the time to do it.

The big cherry blossom festival in Washington, D.C., is running through mid-April. Instead of just looking at the cherry blossoms, take advantage of the hands-on activities going on.

I’m talking about a photo safari of the Tidal Basin at the crack of dawn, or taking a culinary tour of the city to try dishes inspired by the flowers.

Coming up on May 10 is National Public Gardens Day, which gets you access to more than 500 public gardens.

Or go see the famous tulips of Holland – Holland, Michigan, that is. This small town is home to hundreds of thousands of tulips that blossom in spring. So go in early May during the week-long tulip festival.

Of course, there’s always our national parks, but don’t overlook our state parks. This time of year, head to places like Anza-Borrego Desert in Southern California, and Devils Fork State Park in South Carolina for early wildflower season.

If you’re looking for something a little closer to home, you can always check out tulips at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival April 1 through 30. For cherry blossom trees, the UW campus in Seattle should hit its peak bloom any day now.

with Peter Greenberg & listen online anytime