Washington, D.C., has so much to offer that it could be easy to overlook this marvelous celebration of nature, gardening, and agriculture. You’ll find an oasis of beauty and science at the heart of our nation's capital.
Location and Hours:
Admission to the US Botanic Garden is free, and no tickets are required.
The United States Botanic Garden is at 100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20001.
It is located on the west side of the US Capitol Building grounds.
The United States Botanic Gardens’ Conservatory building is open from 10 AM to 5 PM daily, including most holidays.
It is closed on December 25th.
The gated outdoor gardens are open daily from 7 AM to 5 PM, including most holidays. They are closed on December 25th.
The outdoor garden does have extended hours from April 1st to September 15th, when it is open until 7 PM.
LATE AT THE BOTANIC GARDENS
Getting in on the late-night visitor hours, the Botanic Gardens will stay open until 8 pm on the third Thursday in the summer months of June, July, and August.
Lemonade, botanical non-alcoholic mocktails, and snacks will be available for purchase.
What to Expect:
Built in 1933, the Conservatory is a living museum of plants. The West Gallery and East Gallery host changing exhibits, and what follows are a few of the permanent exhibits.
The Garden Court displays plants used for various products, from food to cosmetics to shelter.
The Tropics features a 93-foot dome that explores plants that are key to our environment and the world’s biodiversity.
In Orchids, you can experience these marvelous flowers' colors, shapes, and smells. Hundreds of different flowers from a collection of nearly 3000 are on display at any given time.
Plant Conservation includes rare and endangered plants and shows the efforts to protect them.
World Deserts displays cacti, succulents, and other desert plants, showing how plants can adapt to even the most arid environments.
The Outdoor Gardens surround the Conservatory and include several features. Here are a few highlights.
The Regional Garden displays plants native to the Mid-Atlantic region.
The Rose Garden features examples of one of the world’s most popular flowers, selected to thrive in Washington D.C.’s climate.
In recognition of contributions from our nation’s First Ladies, there is the First Ladies Water Garden, which includes a fountain.
The Amphitheater is made from salvaged marble steps taken from the East Front of the U.S. Capitol. It serves as a gathering space, and occasionally hosts programs.
The Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens is separated from the Botanic Garden by Independence Avenue, but has been part of the campus since 1932.
On its two acres, the garden showcases sustainable practices, including rain gardens, native plants, and even locally sourced furniture.
The fountain itself - named The Fountain of Light and Water - was sculpted by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, the man who created the Statue of Liberty!
Plan Your Visit:
Is the US Botanic Garden free?
Yes, it is free to visit.
Are tickets required to visit the US Botanic Garden?
Tickets are not required.
How long should I expect to stay at the US Botanic Garden?
Expect to stay at least two hours.
Is the US Botanic Garden good to visit with children?
Yes. The exhibits are exciting and educational, and there is also a children’s garden that is open from Spring to Fall.
Does the US Botanic Garden do anything special for the winter holidays?
Yes! They generally organize a seasonal holiday display between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.
It generally includes a model train display, holiday decor, and D.C. landmarks crafted from plants.
Things to do Nearby:
Being on the National Mall, right next to the grounds of the United States Capitol, the US Botanic Garden is close to countless famous and interesting spots to visit.
- US Supreme Court
- Library of Congress
- National Museum of the American Indian
- National Air and Space Museum
