United States Botanic Garden

Activity Overview

The United States Botanic Garden is a living plant museum in Washington, D.C. on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. It is the oldest botanic garden in the United States and contains a wide variety of plant displays and educational exhibits that teach the public about the environment. Its features include a conservatory, the National Garden, and Bartholdi Park, known for its fountain. It's a great place to visit when your family wants to take a break from the city's many historic sites to enjoy the fresh air, especially since it's free.

Things to Do

• Explore the Conservatory, where you can see exhibits featuring Hawaiian plants, medicinal plants, hundreds of orchids, and rare plants.
• Take your little one to the Children's Garden, where they can have hands-on gardening experiences and learn about the garden's many colorful plants.
• Visit the National Garden, which contains dozens of American plants, a beautiful rose garden, a butterfly garden, and the First Ladies Water Garden.
• Relax in peaceful Bartholdi Park, which has many benches in the shade where you can sit and enjoy its serenity. Its most famous feature is the impressive Bartholdi Fountain, which is made of cast-iron and was created by the maker of the Statue of Liberty.

United States Botanic Garden Insider Tips

• When you arrive, pick up a Plant Explorer's Field Journal to use as you explore the gardens.
• Ask for a Junior Botanist Adventure Kit when you arrive - children over 9 can use this fun-filled activity pack to enhance their visit.
• View their calendar to learn about upcoming events and programs that your family can attend during your visit.