Tidal Basin

Located in the center of Washington, DC, the Tidal Basin is an artificial lake used for recreational activities and civil-engineering purposes. The design of the Tidal Basin was introduced in the 1880's.

Overview of the Tidal Basin

The Tidal Basin is an artificial lake created to remedy the high tides, when the basin opens twice a day to take in water from the Potomac River, releasing it to the Washington Channel. Even with this civil-engineering use, the Tidal Basin is the center of attention during the well-known National Cherry Blossom Festival each spring. Visitors are also able to rent paddle boats from the eastern shore of the basin, enjoying the views of buildings and monuments around the basin, including the Jefferson Memorial and the George Mason Memorial. This man-made lake is, in fact, part of the West Potomac Park, and many families and travelers are seen enjoying a picnic or simply a walk along the Tidal Basin.

The trees of the Tidal Basin

Each spring, during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, many cherry trees along the Tidal Basin blossom to add an extra beauty to the views along the lake. Some types of cherry trees located along the shore are Akebono Cherry, Yoshino Cherry and Shirofugen Cherry, mostly trees donated by Japan. The Tidal Basin reflects the beautiful shades of the pink and red blossoms of these cherry trees every year.

The Tidal Basin is an artificial lake created by man, yet holds beautiful views of the historical structures surrounding the lake. The lake is a perfect place for anyone seeking enjoyment and education at the same time.