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United States Botanic Garden

100 Maryland Avenue Southwest, Washington, District of Columbia

Description

The United States Botanic Garden is located on the grounds of the US Capitol in Washington D.C. A lot of the specimens were brought back from Wilkes expedition of the South Seas (1842) and Fisk (a U.S. Navy chaplain). It is split across three locations: the Conservatory (a greenhouse), Bartholdi Park, and the Production Facility. The conservatory has several sections replicating different habitats such as Orchid House, Desert, Hawaii, Garden Primeval and Jungle.

Access & Transport

The Conservatory and Bartholdi Fountain are located immediately to the southwest of the US Capitol Building, at the eastern end of the National Mall. Mero station 'Federal Center SW' (Blue, Orange, Silver lines) is 250m to the south and L'Enfant train station is a 10 mins' walk away.

Instructions & Recommendations

The Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens are open from dawn to dusk daily. They are located across Independence Avenue from the Conservatory. The gated outdoor gardens ("National Garden") are open 07h30 to 17h00 (winter) / 19h00 (summer - April 1 to Sept. 15)

Meta review

Online reviews are a little mixed with many visitors somewhat underwhelmed - probably because all the museums and monuments around are extravagantly large and impressive. But whilst some feel it can be skipped, most reviewers state having enjoyed the botanical gardens both for its content, the 'pretty' greenhouse and the break it provides from the Smithsonian museums.

Environmental & Social

Green activity and educates visitors about flora and its diversity

Conclusion

An excellent option for those with an interest in botany or looking to take a break from DC's museums and monuments for an hour or so (best in springtime and summer). However, in spite of its grand name, it lacks the size and wow factor needed to be one of the city's top tourist attractions.

Key positive

Visually pleasant and relaxing environment

Educational content

Free admission and central location

Key negative

Not very large or unique

Suitability

No restrictions

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in August 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Opening hours of the Conservatory

av. transport time:0h 20m

est. visit time:0h 50m

Regulated hours

Monday10:00 - 17:00

Tuesday10:00 - 17:00

Wednesday10:00 - 17:00

Thursday10:00 - 17:00

Friday10:00 - 17:00

Saturday10:00 - 17:00

Sunday10:00 - 17:00

Pricing
Free

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