Video:Tips for Visiting the Botanic Gardens
with Heidi DehnckeTouring the United States Botanic Gardens is a feast for the senses. It's visited by over one million people per year for it's wide variety of plant exhibitions. Learn about hours and parking tips with this video before you tour the Botanic GardensSee Transcript
Transcript:Tips for Visiting the Botanic Gardens
Hi, I’m Heidi Dehncke-Fisher, a video journalist with About.com and I’m going to give you some helpful tips on visiting the Unites States Botanic Gardens in Washington, DC.
The Botanic Gardens Feature Several Properties of Plant Exhibits
Since 1850 The Unites States Botanic Gardens has emphasized the importance of plants to humanity. The main entrance to the conservatory is located at 100 Maryland Avenue, SW. There are several properties that comprise the Gardens. These include The Conservatory, The National Garden – whose main entrance sits at the intersection of Independence Avenue and Maryland Avenue (at 3rd Street), and Bartholdi Park – located across from the conservatory.
Parking is Limited Near the United States Botanic Gardens
Admission to all of the public areas is free. While some metered parking is available, parking is limited and it is recommended to use public transportation, although there are some handicap spaces located near the conservatory. The garden properties are accessible from both the Federal Center SW or Capitol South Metro station (Orange or Blue Line).
The Botanic Gardens Have Varying Hours of Operation
The Unites States Botanical Garden is part of the legislative branch of government and Architect of the Capitol. It is a living plant museum and over one million people a year visit the collection. The Conservatory is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 365 days a year and houses these exhibits: World Deserts, Hawaii, Children’s Garden, Garden Primeval, Plant Adaptations, Garden Court, Medicinal Plants, Orchids, Plant Exploration, Southern Exposure, Rare and Endangered Species, and Plants and Culture.
The National Garden has Summer Hours (May 28 through September 5) from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. And features a Regional Garden of mid-Atlantic native plants, a Rose Garden, a Butterfly Garden, a First Ladies Water Garden, and an amphitheater.
Bartholdi Park is open from dawn till dusk daily and houses the historic Bartholdi Fountain as well as a continuously updated garden showcasing horticulture and new plant trends in America.There are no refreshments available at the U.S. Botanic Gardens but the natural beauty is a feast for the senses.
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