U.S. National Arboretum

Hidden away in the less-ventured Northeast part of the Washington, along New York Avenue en route to the I-295, lies a valuable Washington gem. The U.S. Arboretum, which sits along 446 acres with 9.5 miles of winding roadways, encompasses several gardens and collections. It is one of the largest arboreta in the country.

Even if the whole city flocked to this expansive urban oasis, the Arboretum is spacious enough that there’s room for everyone to spread out. Every so often you may encounter a bride in a white dress having her wedding day documented there, and for good reason – the scenery and choices of background are just unbeatable.

Besides plants and gardens, the original Capitol columns are on display at the Arboretum. Built in 1828, these columns were later removed after the new design of the Capitol dome appeared proportionally too large for the columns. It wasn’t until 1984 that the columns were brought to the Arboretum and set in a permanent place with a reflecting pool.

In addition, there’s the National Grove of State Trees to wander through, featuring 50 clusters of each state tree. There’s also the popular and exotic Asian Collections overlooking the Anacostia River which features a quiet, red Chinese pavilion. The National Bonsai & Penjing Museum displays a huge collection of bonsais, and there are frequent classes on how to care for your own bonsai. Also popular is the wonderfully aromatic National Herb garden, where you can walk among paths of all your kitchen favorites. 

In spring, the Virginia state flower, the Dogwood, blooms brightly starting as early as March through the fall, with its various collections from different parts of the world. The Holly and Magnolia collections are particularly popular in the spring and summer, as their soft pink blooms are quite indicative of the Washington area. In autumn, the holly produces bright red berries to signal the start of winter. The Perennial collection is popular with green thumbs and amateur gardeners who may be inspired to re-create the collections at home.

Admission is free and biking the grounds on designated paths is a pleasant option to visiting the arboretum. If you’d prefer a guided tour, the Arboretum offers a 35-minute tram tour to the public . Tickets are $4 for adults ($3 members) and $2 for children 4-16. You can also book a private tour in advance. There are also a full calendar of events and workshops ranging from full-moon hikes and garden tours to lectures, gardening classes, Bonsai Basics, special exhibits and plant sales. Weddings and events may also be held at the Arboretum; professional photos require a permit.

 

 

 

- by Rin-rin Yu, Washington Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Rin-rin Yu

Rin-rin is an award-winning writer and journalist based in the Baltimore-Washington area. Her work has appeared in China Daily, DAYSPA magazine, Luxury Home Design, Aquatics International, Not For Tourists and other publications. Rin-rin has also worked for ABC News, WHDH-TV (NBC) in Boston and Hanley Wood Business Media. She has a master's degree from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. She is an avid world traveler and maintains a travel blog, www.mytravelhats.com.