From the Cherry Blossoms in DC to the best coffee in DC, this is how our Spring Menu pays tribute to the best time of year.

Spring in DC: The Season That Brings the City Back to Life

There’s something about spring in DC that just hits different. After months of gray skies and freezing cold commutes, the city finally wakes up. Sidewalks fill with people shaking off their winter coats, restaurant patios spill over with brunch crowds, and the National Mall quickly refills with runners, tourists, and locals ready to soak up the sunshine (and finally start getting their tan back.) It’s the season of cherry blossoms in dc, weekend markets, and the kind of weather that makes you want to grab an iced coffee and actually enjoy being outside again.

Even here at Compass, we feel the shift everywhere — in our cafes and in our roastery. Being the best coffee in dc means we don’t just witness this transformation — we live it right alongside our customers.

A Locals (Un)biased Opinion: Why Spring is DC’s Best Season

DC is a city built for walking. That means the summers are slightly manageable, and the winters are unbearable. If this were Goldilocks and the Three Bears, spring would be the season that hits just right. Whether it’s the DC cherry blossom-lined paths around the Tidal Basin, the cobblestone charm of Georgetown, or the hidden gems you find just wondering around the city, everything feels alive in spring.

Joel Shetterly, Head of Design, says, “There’s this first week in March where you feel like the whole city takes a deep breath and finally exhales. It’s like — okay, we survived the long winter. Now let’s get outside.”

For us, spring means the return of a bustling cafe. Locals coming in early to grab coffee before their morning walk, tourists wondering in after hearing about the Worlds Best Vanilla Cream Cold Brew, or regulars finally returning after a long winter hiatus.

 

How Cherry Blossom Season Brings A Local Business Boom

For businesses, spring in DC isn’t just a season — it’s a 3 month event. The Cherry Blossom Festival in DC alone brings over 1.5 million visitors into the city every year, which means more foot traffic, more energy, and for us – a huge demand for coffee.

Our cafes near the National Mall, like Compass Coffee Chinatown and Penn Quarter, see waves of people coming in pre-Cherry Blossom sunrise photos and post-museum afternoons. It’s one of our busiest times of the year, and we love seeing new faces experiencing DC’s magic for the first time.

Michael Haft, Founder & CEO, says: “DC in the spring is electric, and as a local business, we get to be part of that energy. Whether it’s someone grabbing their first-ever Cherry Blossom Latte or a regular stopping in for a Nitro Cold Brew before heading to Meridian Hill Park, we get to fuel people’s best days.”

Spring at Compass: Our Favorite Time of Year

Spring isn’t just about cherry blossoms — it’s about the way DC comes alive. We see it in the regulars who switch from hot lattes to a cold refreshing Breeze, the friends catching up over a Nitro Cold Brew on our patios, and the die hard Cherry Blossom Cream Cold Brew fans.

As a DC coffee company, we take our spring menu seriously because we know how much this season means to the city. Our Cherry Blossom drinks aren’t just a fun menu item — they’re part of a larger tradition, a way for both locals and visitors to experience spring in DC in every sip.

Bringing the Flavors of Spring to Life

When we think about what makes a drink feel like spring, we focus on flavors that are light, floral, refreshing, and balanced. This is where the Cherry Blossom Syrup comes in — it’s not just a way to celebrate Cherry Blossoms in DC (aka, the most beautiful season), it’s actually the perfect flavor to capture the essence we were looking for.

We wanted something delicate and natural, with just the right amount of fruity sweetness to enhance a drink without overpowering it. It had to complement both hot and cold beverages, blend seamlessly with coffee, while feeling as light as spring itself.

“It was all about balance,” says Chas Newman, COO. “We didn’t want it to taste like perfume, and we didn’t want it to be overwhelmingly sweet. It had to be just subtle enough that when you take a sip, you think: This is literally spring in a cup.”

Perfecting the Cherry Blossom Syrup

Developing a new syrup isn’t as simple as just mixing flavors together — it’s a process of refinement, testing, and getting the balance exactly right. One of our mantras is that everything has to be as good as the coffee — which means we don’t cut corners when it comes to ingredients. That’s why we make all of our simple syrups in-house, using only real, high-quality ingredients.

Our production team worked through multiple iterations to ensure the Cherry Blossom Syrup had the right amount of floral essence while still feeling smooth and approachable. We carefully adjusted the formula to highlight the natural flavors while avoiding anything artificial or overpowering. It’s this dedication to crafting each element from scratch that makes our seasonal drinks truly stand out.

Some of the key decisions that went into perfecting it:

• Finding the Right Floral Notes – We wanted the light, fresh taste of DC cherry blossoms without making it too perfume-y or artificial, while also pairing perfectly with coffee and milk (no pressure, right?)

• Sweetness Levels – The syrup had to be subtly sweet to truly reflect the “lightness” that spring in DC brings. Anything too sweet would feel too heavy, and not sweet enough would taste too bitter. (Think of the flavor difference between fresh cherries and maraschino cherries!)

• Versatility – Whether it’s in a Cherry Blossom Latte, a Cherry Blossom Freeze, or a Cherry Blossom Cream Cold Brew, the syrup had to blend smoothly and complement both espresso and milk, as well as our Nitro.

We also experimented with different Cherry Blossom Blend Coffees each year, using a mix of fruity and floral notes to complement the essence of spring.

“The Cherry Blossom Blend is a fresh take every year,” explains Tripp Ortega, Head of Roasting. “We take inspiration from the cherry blossoms in DC, but also from the feel of spring in DC itself. Some years, we highlight brighter fruit notes, and other years, we lean into soft floral tones. It’s our way of making sure each cherry blossom season is as special and familiar as the last.”

Creating a An Experience

For us, creating our spring menu is about more than just drinks — it’s about creating an experience that mirrors the energy and excitement of spring in DC. Just like how the cherry blossoms in DC only bloom for a few weeks, our Cherry Blossom drinks are only available for a short time, making them just as fleeting (and special) as the season itself.

But beyond the drinks, our mission is to build community — something we refer to as "Build Your City." We believe that our cafes aren’t just places to grab the best coffee in DC — they’re cornerstones of the neighborhood. A place where people meet, connect, and share meaningful moments. We create spaces where friendships form, where conversations flow, and where a simple cup of coffee can become part of someone’s daily ritual. The coffee bar isn’t just a counter — it’s a gathering place where customers and baristas get to know each other. It’s where regulars are greeted by name and where small moments build a sense of belonging.

Spring in DC is a season of renewal, growth, and connection, and we see it reflected in the energy of our cafes. Patios fill with people lingering over cold brew, morning walks to the Tidal Basin start with a cherry blossom latte in hand, and the simple joy of a coffee break feels even more special as the city shakes off winter. Our spring menu isn’t just designed to complement these moments — it’s meant to be one of them.

Compass Coffee’s Spring Menu

Refreshing, floral, and lightly sweet flavors that perfectly match the season. From classic drip coffee, matcha lattes, or something frozen and blended, we’ve got a spring drink for every mood. Here’s a breakdown of everything on the menu this season:

Cherry Blossom Cream Cold Brew – A fan-favorite! This seasonal coffee combines our signature Nitro Cold Brew and Cherry Blossom Syrup, finished with a touch of cream. This drink is designed to be subtly sweet and refreshingly smooth (making it no mystery why our customers rave about it every year.)

Cherry Blossom Latte – A creamy latte infused with our signature Emblem espresso, milk, and Cherry Blossom Syrup for a light floral sweetness. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, this drink is the perfect way to embrace cherry blossom season with every sip.

Cherry Blossom Freeze – A blended frozen drink that combines our Cherry Blossom Syrup with rich espresso and milk for a smooth and indulgent treat. Topped with whipped cream, this drink is perfect for when you want something cold, sweet, and bursting with springtime flavor.

Cherry Blossom Blend Drip Coffee – A seasonal, limited-edition coffee blend created to celebrate springtime in DC. Featuring fruity and floral notes, this blend embodies the warmth and excitement of cherry blossom season.

Nitro Cold Brews

For cold coffee lovers, our signature Nitro Cold Brew lineup is extra smooth and full of flavor.

Mint Cold Brew – A fresh and subtly sweet take on our nitro cold brew, infused with natural mint for a cool and energizing sip.

Worlds Best Vanilla Cream Cold Brew – Smooth nitro cold brew with a touch of vanilla and cream for a silky finish.

Nitro Cold Brew – Our classic nitrogen-infused cold brew, creating a velvety-smooth texture and rich body for a crisp, satisfying taste.

Lattes

For those who love a rich, smooth latte, our spring menu features both classic and seasonal flavors that pair perfectly with warm spring mornings.

NEW: Lavender Matcha Latte – Our latest addition! A floral twist on our classic Matcha Latte, with vibrant and soothing lavender.

Matcha Latte – A vibrant green tea latte with earthy matcha and creamy milk for a smooth, energizing experience.

Lavender Honey Latte – A floral and subtly sweet latte, combining soothing lavender and golden honey for a perfectly balanced sip.

Turmeric Honey Latte – A warm, golden latte infused with turmeric and honey, offering a cozy and slightly spiced flavor profile.

Vanilla Latte – A timeless classic—smooth espresso with the worlds best vanilla, simple and satisfying.

Breezes

Our Breeze line was created as the ultimate lightly caffeinated, fruit-forward drink, inspired by customer requests for a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up. Each drink is crafted with real fruit and tropical green tea, offering a burst of flavor and energy without the heaviness of coffee.

Mandarin Cardamom Breeze – A citrusy, refreshing fusion of mandarin orange and cardamom, with a real slice of orange for added freshness.

Peach Mango Breeze – A juicy, tropical blend of sweet peach and mango, balanced with crisp green tea.

Strawberry Dragonfruit Breeze – A vibrant, fruity combination of real strawberry and dragonfruit, perfect for a bold and refreshing sip.

Wild Berry Breeze – A mixed berry medley with a crisp, refreshing finish that’s perfect for a light, energizing drink.

Freezes

Inspired by customer demand for flavorful, frozen coffee experience, our Freezes are perfectly blended for a creamy, indulgent treat topped with our house-made whipped cream.

Cherry Blossom Freeze – The ultimate frozen drink for spring in DC, blending espresso, milk, and Cherry Blossom flavor into a smooth, ice-cold delight.

Caramel Freeze – A rich and creamy caramel-infused frozen coffee, topped with whipped cream for an extra decadent touch.

Mocha Freeze – For chocolate lovers, this espresso-meets-chocolate freeze is smooth, satisfying, and perfect for warm spring days.

Almond Butter Freeze – A nutty, subtly sweet treat made with real almond butter, espresso, and milk for a smooth, creamy finish.

 

Why Seasonal Coffee Matters

There’s something about a seasonal drink that makes it more than just the best coffee in DC — it’s a signal that the season has officially arrived. At Compass Coffee, we love embracing the flavors and feelings of each season through our menu, creating drinks that match the moment.

In the fall, pumpkin takes center stage. Whether it’s a Pumpkin Spice Latte or a Pumpkin Cold Brew, there’s something about warm spices that just feels like crisp air and changing leaves. When winter rolls in, we turn to peppermint, gingerbread, and rich chocolate—flavors that bring warmth and nostalgia during the colder months. And when summer finally hits, we lighten things up with coconut freezes and tropical fruit breezes, giving our drinks a refreshing, vacation-worthy twist.

Spring, on the other hand, is all about fresh flavors and embracing the change of the season. Warmer weather, longer days, and cherry blossoms in full bloom make it the perfect time to get outside and experience DC in its most vibrant form. And while a Cherry Blossom Cream Cold Brew or a Mandarin Cardamom Breeze is a great way to embrace the season, nothing beats pairing it with some of our favorite spring activities around the city.

Best Ways to Experience Spring in DC

Spring in DC is more than just warmer weather — it’s an entire season of events, outdoor adventures, and can’t-miss moments that make the city come alive. Whether you’re soaking in the DC cherry blossoms, exploring DC’s world-class museums, or just looking for the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee in the sunshine, here are some of the best ways to make the most of spring in DC.

Go See the Cherry Blossoms - Duh!

Seeing the DC cherry blossoms in full bloom is a must in DC, but timing is everything. Peak bloom — the short window when at least 70% of the blossoms are open — typically happens between late March and early April. But if you want to get the best views without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, go early — as in, sunrise early. While the Tidal Basin is the most famous (and most crowded) spot, there are plenty of less packed alternatives that offer incredible views: 

• Hains Point in East Potomac – A scenic stretch lined with cherry trees, perfect for a peaceful morning walk.

• National Arboretum – A hidden gem with beautiful cherry blossoms, and... fewer tourists. 

• Neighborhood Parks – Stanton Park and Lincoln Park on Capitol Hill offer gorgeous blooms and a relaxing atmosphere, also perfect for picnics!

• LeDroit Park – Stunning Cherry Blossom trees with an iron gate from the 1800s -what more could you want?!

You’ll still get stunning views and great pictures, minus the shoulder-to-shoulder shuffle. And if you can’t make it to a centralized cherry blossom area, don’t worry — you won’t miss seeing at least ONE. The cherry blossoms pop up all over the city, from the Capitol grounds to random neighborhood streets, making DC feel like a real-life postcard no matter where you wander. 

 

Experience the Best Cherry Blossom Events

Beyond just admiring the blooms, DC celebrates cherry blossom season with a full lineup of events, festivals, and parties. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Blossom Kite Festival – A colorful spectacle on the Washington Monument grounds, where hundreds of kites take to the sky. Whether you’re flying one or just watching, it’s a beautiful way to celebrate spring in DC.

• Petalpalooza – This one-day festival at The Yards Park in Navy Yard features live music, interactive art, food vendors, and ends with a fireworks show over the Anacostia River.

• Cherry Blossom DC Parade – DC’s biggest springtime parade brings marching bands, giant balloons, and celebrity performances to Constitution Avenue. You can buy grandstand seating, but arriving early to grab a free spot along the route works just as well.

• Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival – The largest Japanese cultural festival in the U.S., featuring everything from sake tastings to cosplay contests and authentic Japanese street food.

• Pink Tie Party – A glamorous springtime kickoff held at Union Station, where guests dress in their best pink attire and enjoy cocktails, live music, and incredible food to celebrate Cherry Blossoms in DC.

• Opening Ceremony – Hosted at the Warner Theatre, this event celebrates the 113th anniversary of DC’s Cherry Blossoms with performances from world-renowned Japanese and American artists.

Smithsonian Museums

You literally can’t go wrong with a good ol' museum day, and lucky for you, DC has some of the best. The Smithsonian is the world’s largest museum complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. Eleven museums are located along the National Mall in Washington, D.C., six others and the Smithsonian’s National Zoo are nearby, two are in New York City, and two more are in the works. Oh – and did we mention they’re free? As amazing and huge as they are, the one downside is that they can get a bit crowded during peak tourism season.

Your best bet to beat the crowds is to be the first to arrive when doors open. Most Smithsonian Museums open at 10AM, but be sure to check the website of the specific museum you’re visiting. Some have special hours for peak tourism season, and some even require (free) advance passes.

Here’s some of our personal favorites, because as DC locals, we are a little bias 😉

Natural History Museum

Every seen Night at the Museum 2? While everything doesn’t come to life (at least not during the day) the feeling is still there. The National Museum of Natural History is one of those places that you can visit a dozen times and still find something new. It’s home to millions of artifacts, but here are a few can’t-miss highlights:

The Hope Diamond – A 45-carat deep blue diamond with a history as dramatic as its sparkle. It’s rumored to be cursed (but don’t worry, just looking won’t doom you).

Fossil Hall – Say hi to the Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops in the museum’s epic dinosaur exhibit. It’s a must-see for any Jurassic Park fan.

Butterfly Pavilion – A tropical paradise where you can walk among hundreds of live butterflies. This is the only ticketed attraction in the museum ($8/adult), but it’s free every Tuesday!

The Ocean Hall – Featuring a massive 45-foot model of a North Atlantic right whale, plus stunning deep-sea creatures and coral reefs.

Henry the Elephant – The iconic African elephant in the museum’s rotunda is impossible to miss (and makes for a great photo op.)

10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. | Museum Website 

National Gallery of Art

Ever wish you could step into a painting? The National Gallery of Art might be the closest thing. This world-class museum is home to masterpieces from every era, and the best part is knowing exactly where to start. The museum is split into two wings, and they couldn’t be more different.

West Wing – If you love the classics, start here. Think Van Gogh, Da Vinci, Monet, and Rembrandt. The West Wing is all about timeless, traditional works, from Renaissance paintings to iconic Impressionist pieces. It’s where you’ll find Girl with a Red Hat by Vermeer, Self-Portrait by Vincent van Gogh, and The Thinker by Rodin. The galleries are grand and elegant, perfect for slowly taking in centuries of art history.

East Wing – Feeling modern? Head to the East Wing for a totally different vibe. Designed by architect I.M. Pei (the same mind behind the Louvre’s glass pyramid), this wing is filled with contemporary and abstract art. It’s where you’ll find Pollock’s chaotic splatters, Rothko’s color fields, and Warhol’s pop art. The space itself feels like a work of art, with sweeping angles and a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of Pennsylvania Avenue.

Also keep an eye out for after dark museum parties, which the art museum is known to hold every season. Tickets are always free, but operate on a lottery system. You’ll need to check their website regularly in order to get on the list in advance advance.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Museum Website

Smithsonian National Zoo

If you’re in DC and don’t stop by the National Zoo, did you even really visit? Nestled in Rock Creek Park, this 163-acre zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals and some of the most famous residents in the city. It’s the perfect mix of wildlife, conservation, and a great excuse to get outside.

Giant Pandas – They’re back! After a brief hiatus, giant pandas have officially returned to the National Zoo, and their arrival is a huge deal. DC has a long history with pandas, and their comeback is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Be sure to stop by their habitat to watch them lounge, munch on bamboo, and remind everyone why they’re the city’s most beloved mascots.

Elephant Trails – Watch Asian elephants roam, play, and interact in one of the most well-designed elephant habitats in the country. The zoo’s conservation efforts here are a big deal, and seeing these massive creatures up close never gets old.

American Trail – A love letter to North America’s wildlife. This area is home to bald eagles, sea lions, gray wolves, and beavers, all in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments.

Whether you’re an animal lover or just looking for an easy, family-friendly outdoor activity after your early morning cherry blossom dc visit, the National Zoo never disappoints.

8 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Zoo Website

 

Not into museums? Just not into crowded museums? Totally get it. Lucky for you, there’s still tons to do that’s free and open to everyone.

If you’re into hiking…

Rock Creek Park Hikes – DC’s version of an outdoor escape, Rock Creek Park is a sprawling green space with miles of scenic trails that make you forget you’re even in a city. You can stick to an easy stroll along Beach Drive, tackle the Western Ridge Trail for more of a challenge, or check out the Boulder Bridge for a picture-perfect moment. Bonus: the park is also home to a planetarium and historic sites if you want to mix nature with a little history.

If you’re into shopping local…

Outdoor Markets – Spring is when DC’s markets truly come alive. Head to Eastern Market for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and some of the best breakfast in the city (get the blueberry buckwheat pancakes). Over in Dupont Circle, the farmers market is a weekend staple, packed with local vendors selling everything from fresh flowers to small-batch pastries. Grab the best coffee in dc (from Compass, of course), wander through the stalls, and enjoy some of the best people-watching in the city.

If you’re into monuments, but with a twist…

Sunset Picnic at the Lincoln Memorial – Visiting the monuments is a must, but here’s how to do it right. Skip the midday tourist rush and head to the Lincoln Memorial at sunset. Bring a blanket, pick up some takeout from a nearby spot (or pack a picnic), and watch the sky change colors over the Reflecting Pool. It’s one of the most stunning, peaceful views in the city, and the perfect way to take in the magic of DC without fighting the crowds.

 

Our Favorite Local Spring Activities (with Coffee, of course)

We’re DC locals, which means we have our own list of favorite springtime activities. And, of course, they all include coffee.

1. National Portrait Gallery + Coffee

Coffee Stop: Compass Coffee Chinatown – 650 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004

2. U.S. Botanic Garden + Coffee

For bloom lovers, the U.S. Botanic Garden is a must. With lush indoor and outdoor gardens, it’s home to exotic tropical plants, fragrant orchids, and desert cacti. And in the spring, they roll out their seasonal blooms, making it one of the best places for a peaceful (and very fragrant) stroll.

Coffee Stop: Compass Coffee Navy Yard North – 82 I St SE, Washington, DC 20003

3. Butterfly Pavilion at the Natural History Museum + Coffee

Looking for something a little more magical? The Butterfly Pavilion at the National Museum of Natural History is an indoor tropical habitat where hundreds of butterflies fly freely, landing on flowers (and sometimes on you!).

Note: This is a ticketed exhibit ($8 per adult), but it’s free every Tuesday!

Coffee Stop: Compass Coffee Penn Quarter – 435 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20004

 

Spring in DC, The Right Way

Spring in DC is unlike anywhere else — from the cherry blossoms in DC to the buzzing patios, the festivals, and the first real warm days of the year. Whether you’re waking up early for a sunrise cherry blossom walk, checking out a Smithsonian museum, or catching a festival with friends, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season.