17+ BEST Botanical Gardens in Washington DC: Explore These Hidden Gems Before They’re Gone

The United States Botanic Garden is a beautiful and expansive garden located in Washington, D.C. The garden is home to a wide variety of exotic plants from all over the world, making it a unique and fascinating place to visit. The highlight of the garden is the glass-domed conservatory, which houses rare and tropical plants in a stunning indoor setting.

Visitors can wander through the sprawling grounds and explore the conservatory, as well as a rare plants gallery and a butterfly garden. The garden is a peaceful and serene oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for nature lovers and plant enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking to learn more about different types of plants or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through beautiful surroundings, the United States Botanic Garden is a must-visit destination.

The United States National Arboretum is a beautiful outdoor space filled with a variety of plants, trees, and shrubs. Visitors can explore the grounds for free and enjoy a leisurely picnic in the designated area. The arboretum also features a museum where guests can learn more about the different plant species on display.

With plants galore, the arboretum is a great place to spend a relaxing day surrounded by nature. Whether you’re a plant enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful outdoor escape, the United States National Arboretum has something for everyone to enjoy. So pack a picnic, grab a friend, and head to this scenic destination for a day of exploration and relaxation.

Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens is a beautiful and serene spot in the U.S. Botanic Garden. The 2-acre garden is filled with a variety of unique plants and flowers that create a colorful and vibrant display. The highlight of the garden is the dramatic cast-iron fountain that adds a touch of elegance to the surroundings.

Visitors can stroll through the garden and admire the blooming flowers while listening to the soothing sound of the fountain. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place to relax and unwind in the midst of nature. Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a tranquil and scenic setting.

Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is a peaceful nature preserve with a boardwalk trail that winds through ponds and a marsh. The tranquil setting is perfect for a relaxing stroll or birdwatching.

The short trails offer a chance to explore the diverse plant and animal life in the area, with picnic spots available for a leisurely break. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or a chance to connect with nature, Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is a hidden gem worth exploring.

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is a beautiful 95-acre complex that is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The gardens feature a variety of ornamental plants, native species, and picturesque lakes that provide a peaceful and serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. The well-maintained walking trails offer a leisurely way to explore the gardens and take in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

The visitor center at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens provides information about the different plant species and offers educational programs for those interested in learning more about the local flora and fauna. Whether you are looking for a relaxing stroll through the gardens or a chance to connect with nature, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates the beauty of the outdoors.

Brookside Gardens is a large, beautiful green space that covers 50 acres of land. It features conservatories filled with a variety of plants, ponds, and water elements that add to the serene atmosphere. The gardens are home to a wide range of flowers, fruit trees, and other plant life, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.

Visitors can stroll through the gardens and admire the colorful blooms, or sit by the ponds and listen to the soothing sounds of the water. The conservatories offer a chance to see exotic plants up close and learn more about different species. Whether you’re a plant enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, Brookside Gardens has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Bishop’s Garden is a peaceful oasis located in the heart of Washington, D.C. It is a hidden gem that offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The garden features a variety of beautiful flowers, plants, and trees that bloom throughout the year, creating a colorful and vibrant atmosphere.

Visitors can wander through the winding paths and admire the intricate sculptures and fountains scattered throughout the garden. The tranquil setting provides a perfect spot for relaxation and contemplation, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to read a book or simply enjoy nature, The Bishop’s Garden is a must-visit destination in the nation’s capital.

Green Spring Gardens is a beautiful horticulture site that features a historic house surrounded by extensive grounds. Visitors can enjoy tea and tours of the historic house, as well as explore the garden shops, plant education resources, and library on the property.

The gardens offer a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just have a love for nature, Green Spring Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world.

The Rose Garden at the US Botanic Gardens is a beautiful and fragrant oasis in the heart of Washington, DC. With over 700 varieties of roses, it is a must-see destination for flower enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The garden is meticulously maintained and features a stunning array of colors and scents that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Visitors can stroll through the winding pathways and admire the different varieties of roses in bloom, from classic reds and pinks to unique and exotic hybrids. The garden also offers educational programs and workshops for those looking to learn more about rose cultivation and care. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax and unwind or simply want to marvel at the beauty of nature, the Rose Garden at the US Botanic Gardens is a perfect spot to visit.

The Smithsonian Pollinator Garden is a beautiful 11,000 square foot garden that showcases the life cycle of butterflies through its plantings and habitats. Visitors can take tours of the garden to learn about the different stages of a butterfly’s life, from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to adult butterfly.

The garden is filled with a variety of plants that butterflies love, such as milkweed, coneflowers, and butterfly bush. These plants provide food and shelter for butterflies, as well as nectar for them to feed on. Visitors can see butterflies fluttering around the garden, pollinating the plants and adding to the beauty of the space.

Dumbarton Oaks Gardens is a beautiful and historic garden located in Washington, D.C. The gardens cover 27 acres and feature a variety of different landscapes, including formal gardens, wooded areas, and meadows. Visitors can explore winding pathways, tranquil ponds, and colorful flower beds throughout the property.

One of the highlights of Dumbarton Oaks Gardens is the Orangery, a stunning greenhouse that houses exotic plants and flowers. The garden also features a variety of sculptures and fountains, adding to its charm and beauty. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax or a picturesque spot for a leisurely stroll, Dumbarton Oaks Gardens is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The Holly and Magnolia Section at the National Arboretum is a beautiful and serene area filled with a variety of holly and magnolia trees. The section is known for its vibrant colors and lush greenery, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers alike. Visitors can wander through the winding paths and admire the different species of trees that call this section home.

The peaceful atmosphere of the Holly and Magnolia Section provides a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With benches scattered throughout the area, visitors can sit and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while taking in the beauty of the surrounding trees. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or simply want to explore the beauty of nature, the Holly and Magnolia Section at the National Arboretum is a must-visit destination.

The Floral Library is a beautiful garden filled with colorful tulip beds. Located near the Tidal Basin, this vibrant garden showcases a wide range of tulips and annuals grouped by variety. Visitors can stroll through the garden and admire the stunning display of flowers in full bloom.

The tulip beds at the Floral Library are a sight to behold, with hues ranging from bright reds and yellows to soft pinks and purples. The garden is a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture the beauty of springtime in full bloom. Don’t miss the chance to visit this enchanting garden and experience the beauty of nature at its finest.

Enid A. Haupt Garden is a beautiful oasis spanning 4 acres, filled with a variety of horticultural beds. The garden is adorned with benches, cast-iron fixtures, and water features, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

Visitors can stroll through the garden and admire the colorful array of flowers and plants that are meticulously cared for. The garden is a perfect spot to relax and unwind, surrounded by nature’s beauty and the soothing sounds of flowing water. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to read a book or simply want to take in the sights and smells of the garden, Enid A. Haupt Garden is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Common Ground: Our American Garden is a beautiful exhibit located at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. The garden showcases a variety of plants and flowers that have played a significant role in American history.

Visitors can explore the garden and learn about the cultural and historical significance of different plants, as well as how they have been used throughout American history. The exhibit provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between plants and people in the United States.

The Franciscan Monastery Garden is a peaceful oasis located in Washington, D.C. The garden is filled with beautiful flowers, herbs, and trees that create a serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

Visitors can explore the winding paths, visit the replica of the Holy Land Grotto, and take in the stunning views of the city skyline. The garden is a perfect place to relax and unwind, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The American University Arboretum and Gardens is a beautiful outdoor space located on the campus of American University in Washington, D.C. The arboretum features a diverse collection of trees, plants, and flowers that provide a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to enjoy.

Visitors can explore the various gardens within the arboretum, including the native plant garden, the pollinator garden, and the herb garden. The arboretum also offers educational programs and events for students and the community to learn more about sustainable gardening practices and the importance of preserving green spaces in urban areas.

The National Herb Garden is a beautiful outdoor space located in Washington, D.C. It is a part of the United States National Arboretum and features over 800 different types of herbs. Visitors can explore the garden and learn about the various herbs that are grown there.

The garden is divided into different sections based on the types of herbs, such as culinary herbs, medicinal herbs, and fragrant herbs. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the sights and smells of the different plants. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just have a love for herbs, the National Herb Garden is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about these versatile plants.

Constitution Gardens is a quaint little park that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features a serene pond with a charming island in the middle, creating a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy.

The compact garden is filled with various spots for relaxation, whether you prefer to sit on a bench and take in the scenery or stroll along the winding pathways. The pond adds a touch of tranquility to the park, providing a soothing backdrop for a leisurely afternoon spent in nature.

The Tropical Conservatory is a lush and vibrant indoor garden filled with exotic plants from tropical regions around the world. Visitors can wander through the humid and warm environment, surrounded by colorful flowers, towering palms, and cascading vines. The air is filled with the sweet scent of tropical blooms, creating a sensory experience like no other.

The conservatory is a peaceful oasis where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. It is a perfect place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with the natural world. Whether you are a plant enthusiast or simply looking for a tranquil retreat, the Tropical Conservatory offers a unique and enchanting experience for all who visit.