Washington D.C. Gardens - Self-Guided Day Trip

1. Smithsonian Gardens

Located around museums throughout the National Mall, these gardens are open year-round, seven days a week, with something to see in every season.

Mary Livingston Ripley Garden
Barbara loves that this “sweet little garden” is a both an oasis and a horticultural feast for the eyes, with many exciting and innovative plant combinations to enjoy. Meandering pathways lead you through billowing borders with a backdrop of distinctive architecture.

Enid A. Haupt Garden
At 4 acres, this garden is larger but still “human-sized” and features brick paths, fountains, and a manicured parterre as its centerpiece.

Pollinator Garden
Just a short walk away, the Pollinator Garden showcases natural plant/pollinator partnerships. “It really is amazing,” remarks Barbara. “It is basically a pollinator corridor tucked in between two streets.”

Amenities

Wheelchair Access

Information

10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560 GET DIRECTIONS

(202) 633-1000

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2. United States Botanic Gardens

Just a 30 minute walk or a short drive away, the USBG offers a diverse range of garden experiences.

Conservatory
Step inside this historic conservatory and explore two courtyard gardens and ten themed garden rooms featuring exciting exhibits including medicinal plants from all over the world, a changing display of rare, threatened or endangered plants, and a reconstructed Jurassic landscape.

National Garden
Representing different planting environments from around the United States this is both educational and interesting, sure to satisfy any garden lover.

Bartholdi Park
Just across Independence Avenue from the conservatory this recently renovated two acre garden features exciting plant combinations and an impressive cast-iron fountain. “It’s not too overwhelming,” says Barbara, reflecting that unlike many parks, the smaller size of Bartholdi seems more intimate and accessible.

Amenities

Wheelchair Access

Information

100 Maryland Ave SW,
Washington, DC 20001 GET DIRECTIONS

(202) 225-8333

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3. Dumbarton Oaks

To reach your final destination, head north to the Georgetown neighborhood. (Barbara suggests using Uber if you prefer not to drive). This historic garden, designed by Beatrix Farrand, is noted for its exquisite attention to detail. “The finials! The gates! The pebble mosaic work!” enthuses Barbara.

It took almost thirty years to transform the neglected landscape into the formal terraced gardens, naturalistic meadows, expansive vistas, and woodland pathways seen today.

Barbara recommends then having dinner at one of the many restaurants in Georgetown to complete your special day.

Information

R St NW,
Washington, DC 20007 GET DIRECTIONS

(202) 895-6000

Visit Website

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About your local garden expert Barbara Katz

I have been designing and building gardens for over 30 years. I studied in England with John Brookes, an extraordinary landscape designer, and then got to work in London with Blooming Gardens, where I did everything, including laying Yorkstone patios, with stone that was 4" thick. This physical work has informed my business - I want to be involved in every aspect of creating a garden, hence my sole focus on design & build.

From the first meeting with customers, where we craft the master 'wish list', through schematics, construction drawings and planting plans, I am involved every step of the way. Plants are my passion, and I personally select and plant with my crew, every tree, shrub, perennial etc that goes into my gardens. Call me crazy but I love it! My travels and visits to other gardens have been a huge influence. There is nothing like the exploration of other gardens to educate and inspire you - please come visit Washington DC and see the fabulous gardens we have!

Visit Barbara's web site
www.londonlandscapes.com

Video image credits

White house https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:White_House_lawn.jpg Photo credit: I, Daniel Schwen [CC BY-SA 3.0]

Smithsonian Gardens

United States Botanic Gardens

Dumbarton Oaks

Top Washington DC Gardens to Visit

1. Smithsonian Gardens

Amenities

2. United States Botanic Gardens

Amenities

3. Dumbarton Oaks

United States

International

About your local garden expert Barbara Katz