By DullesMoms, Feb 2023
Washington, DC, offers a variety of ways to soak up the sun and connect with nature. One of those opportunities includes a visit to the US National Arboretum!
As one of a handful of public gardens locally, the US National Arboretum spans a whopping 451 acres, with 9.5 miles of winding roadways! Open to the public, some of its key features that attract visitors daily include:
Grove of State Trees
This 30-acre site showcases a diverse array of trees representing each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Each plot is home to a grouping of a state’s official tree species or an indigenous species suitable for the local climate.
National Bonsai & Penjing Museum
The arboretum houses an impressive collection of bonsai and penjing (the Chinese equivalent of bonsai) displayed throughout its Japanese, Chinese, and North American Pavilions, as well as in a conservatory.
Themed Gardens
The arboretum boasts several themed gardens, including the Fern Valley Native Plant Collections, a flowering tree collection, and the National Herb Garden featuring historic roses and more.
Washington Youth Garden
The Washington Youth Garden introduces children to the origins of their food and promotes environmental advocacy. Yearly, it hosts a variety of hands-on events for young visitors, and between April and October, kids are invited to see real crops growing alongside a vibrant butterfly garden.
National Capitol Columns
This collection of twenty-two Corinthian columns once formed part of the East Portico of the United States Capitol building, offering a glimpse of architectural history.
With a destination this large, plan ahead with these tools:
• Map of the Grounds
• Plant Finder & Interactive Map
• Calendar of Events
Offering event more information, be sure to visit Friends of the National Arboretum’s website, too.
Visiting is free! The outside grounds of the US National Arboretum are open daily, from 8 am-5 pm. However, click here to learn more about seasonal and special closures to specific exhibits and features.
Details:
Website
Location:
US National Arboretum • Wash, DC (Map)
Disclaimer: Events/opportunities are curated from public sources and are subject to changes/cancelations that might not be reflected on DullesMoms.com.
Tours, tourists, tourism, things to see, things to see, visit, visiting, places to go
