West Basin Dr Southwest, Washington Mall

This is the drive to take in the spring when the cherry trees are in bloom. Having a picnic under the blooming trees with family and friends is very lucky in the Japanese culture and in any case is very fun. The delicate blossoms fall from the trees like gentle pink snowflakes.

West Basin Drive loops around and becomes East Basin Drive as it surrounds the Tidal Basin in a one-way street. Get there from Ohio Drive. The great thing about this street is that you can see the famous Cherry Trees from the comfort of your car as you drive slowly around the circle.
Two of my favorite presidential memorials are located in this area. You can usually find parking near both of them. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is a well-known landmark with its domed pillars. Inside the ceiling is engraved with his inspiring words. Not far from here is the newest presidential memorial, that of Franklin D. Roosevelt. This one is very different from others in the area. It is made up of a set of sculptures representing the major events of his presidency. The park setting is expansive and beautiful in all seasons of the year. The view of Washington D.C. from that vantage point is especially nice at sunset.