The United States National Arboretum in Washington, DC, is a massive collection of trees, shrubbery, and turf that you can visit to explore a wide range of cultivated and diverse plants. The plants are so significant and well-maintained that it's one of the most popular botanical research centers in the country and is used most notably by the USDA. Plus, the herbarium has over 800,000 specimens to examine.
Anyone interested in the wonders of nature will enjoy a visit to the United States National Arboretum, including both kids and adults. Whether you're interested in themed gardens or single-genus groupings, you'll find plenty to see across its total 446 acres of space. It's just 2.2 miles northeast of the Capitol, and you can see the columns of the past Capitol building still standing within the Arboretum. Most people spend about 2 to 3 hours here.
United States National Arboretum in Washington DC - one of the highlights of 10 Best Parks in Washington DC and 10 Most Instagrammable Places in Washington DC (Read all about Washington here)
What are the highlights of the United States National Arboretum in Washington, DC?
While you'll find plenty of gardens in the United States National Arboretum, some tend to stand out. The Asian Collections are particularly popular, showcasing flora common throughout the Japanese Woodland, China Valley, and Korean Hillside. Additionally, you can check out the Gotelli Dwarf and Slow Growing Conifer Collection. The National Herb Garden is popular as well with its knot garden and historic roses.
The single-genus groupings in the United States National Arboretum are particularly impressive due to the sheer diversity they can show within a single genus. For example, you'll find a collection of azaleas in addition to a magnolia collection, both of which are massive in scope and feature a variety of species on display within their respective genera. Don't forget to check out the dogwood and holly collections as well to see an array of vibrant and towering greenery.
A brief history of United States National Arboretum in Washington, DC
The United States National Arboretum dates back to 1927 when it was officially authorized by Congress, although no money was allocated to its physical construction at that time. Set on what was then known as Mount Hamilton, the arboretum was funded 10 months after its establishment when it was given $300,000 by President Collidge. This bought an extra 189 acres of land, with an additional 196 acres being acquired about 6 years later. In the decades since, it expanded more and more, with the latest putting it at an impressive 446 acres.
In 1973, the United States National Arboretum was officially declared as a Category II landmark on the National Register of Historic Places. It was determined that it contributes significantly to DC's alluring visual beauty and cultural heritage. Since then, it has been officially protected and continues to serve as a valuable landmark for the city.
What else is good to know about the United States National Arboretum in Washington, DC?
When you visit the United States National Arboretum, there are a few factors to keep in mind. All the wildlife and plant life here are protected, so you can't take any of it home with you. As tempting as picking some flowers may be, leave them where they are. Additionally, you're free to bring pets along during your visit provided they're on leashes the entire time.
Visiting the United States National Arboretum will put you close to several other points of interest you may not want to miss out on. The White House and the National Gallery of Art are both just a short distance to the west. Meanwhile, Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens are easily accessible to the east after crossing the Anacostia River, which serves as the arboretum's eastern border.
United States National Arboretum in Washington DC
Location: 3501 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
Open: Daily from 8 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 202-245-2726
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