The United States Botanic Garden: Adventures in DC

Are you craving an escape from your everyday environment? Looking to get lost among some of nature’s most beautiful flora and fauna, without even leaving the city? Then you gotta check out the United States Botanic Garden in Washington, DC.

Since moving back to the DC area a few weeks ago, we have been trying to get out and explore our new city as much as possible. It has been a bit of a challenge, while in the midst of the madness of moving and the girls starting school. But it’s been fun to wander around and get used to our new home.

One place that I was really itching to check out was the United States Botanic Garden. It’s another one of those amazing places in DC that is free and open to the public year-round. So you bet I’ll be taking advantage of that! The girls and I decided to head over on a Sunday morning to check it out.

National Garden

We arrived just after 9 AM and were able to wander around the garden until the Conservatory opened at 10 AM. There is plenty to see in the garden. I highly suggest getting there early to take advantage of the light crowds. We were able to capture some great photos and hardly saw anyone else out there. Be prepared to encounter plenty of butterflies, birds and bumblebees. We absolutely love it!

Conservatory

The Conservatory was originally constructed in 1933 and last renovated in 2001. The greenhouse contains two courtyard gardens and 10 garden rooms under glass. There is a total of 28,944 square feet of growing space.

Within the Conservatory, is a state-of-the-art, completely automated, environmental control system. Computers monitor the outside weather and automatically control misting, shade, fans, and air-handling equipment. Heat and window vents are also automated, to achieve a perfect range of day and night temperatures and humidity. Pretty cool right? We saw some of these systems in action as we strolled around.

It’s easy to get lost wandering the paths through the Conservatory. It’s a peaceful and inspiring experience. The level of care that this place receives is apparent, everything is very well maintained. We especially loved the tropical environments, of course including the Hawaii garden room! Now I know where to go when it gets colder around here!

There is also an awesome upper level that gives you a great view of the plants below. We loved getting up above all the activity below. Be sure to watch your step though, it can get a bit wet on those metal surfaces.

Overall we had a great time exploring the United States Botanic Garden. It’s easy to spend a couple of hours leisurely exploring the National Garden and Conservatory. And with the Capitol and many Smithsonian Museums within walking distance, you can find plenty to do after your morning visit.

Have you ever been to the United States Botanic Garden? If so, what did you think? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below. Until next time, Aloha!

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