By DullesMoms, August 2026
Looking for a big outdoor day that doesn’t cost a thing? The US National Arboretum spans 451 acres in Washington, DC, with bonsai pavilions, a youth garden, themed plant collections, and 9 miles of roadways to wander — all open to the public for free.
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 group of a state’s official tree species or an indigenous species suited to the local climate. Picnic tables are located close to the entrance portal and the M Street parking lot.
National Bonsai & Penjing Museum
The arboretum houses an impressive collection of bonsai and penjing (the Chinese equivalent of bonsai) displayed throughout its Japanese, Chinese, North American, and International Pavilions, as well as in a conservatory.
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.
The Washington Youth Garden introduces children to the origins of their food and promotes environmental advocacy. Established in 1971, this one-acre education garden includes a pollinator garden, a sensory garden, a food production area, and a Nature Explore classroom, and it grows thousands of pounds of produce each year for DC students and families. Yearly, it hosts a variety of hands-on events for young visitors, and kids are invited to see real crops growing.
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 even more information, be sure to visit Friends of the National Arboretum’s website, too.
Visiting is free, and no tickets are needed! The outside grounds of the US National Arboretum are open daily, 8 am-5 pm, except Christmas Day. However, click here to learn more about seasonal and special closures to specific exhibits and features.
Details:
Website
Location:
US National Arboretum ∙ 3501 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.
