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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Parks and outdoors

U.S. National Arboretum

A sprawling 451-acre public garden and research facility in northeast Washington, D.C., blending scientific discovery with stunning ornamental landscape plants and specialized collections.

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U.S. National Arboretum
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What is the U.S. National Arboretum known for?

The U.S. National Arboretum is a 451-acre public garden and research facility in northeast Washington, D.C., focused on the conservation, research, and aesthetic value of ornamental and landscape plants. It features 16 major gardens, including the National Bonsai and Penjing Museum and the National Herb Garden.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission to the U.S. National Arboretum, including the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, is free of charge.

What are the hours?

The grounds are generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on December 25. During the summer, seasonal hours extend weekday grounds hours to 8:00 PM. Last admittance to the grounds is at 4:30 PM daily.

Is the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum open at different times?

Yes, the museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, though it may be closed on certain federal holidays from November through February.

Where is it located?

The arboretum is located in northeast Washington, D.C., at 3501 New York Avenue, N.E. It is approximately 2.2 miles or ten minutes from the Capitol Building.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The U.S. National Arboretum is a massive 451-acre public garden and research facility located in northeast Washington, D.C. Established by an act of Congress in 1927, it serves as a premier scientific institution dedicated to enhancing the economic, environmental, and aesthetic value of landscape and ornamental plants. It is operated by the USDA Agricultural Research Service, ensuring a high level of botanical research and conservation. Visitors can explore 16 major gardens, including the National Herb Garden, the National Boxwood Collection, the Gotelli Conifer Collection, and the National Bonsai and Penjing Museum. Beyond the curated gardens, the grounds feature research fields used for plant breeding, non-cultivated woodlands, meadows, and a USDA-ARS seed bank. The facility also houses an 800,000 specimen herbarium, emphasizing its role as a global center for horticultural innovation. Located roughly 2.2 miles northeast of the Capitol, the Arboretum provides a serene escape from the city center. The grounds are generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though seasonal hours extend weekday grounds access up to 8:00 PM during the summer months. Admission to the entire site, including the specialized museum, is free of charge, making it an accessible destination for all visitors.

Visitor tips

  • Plan to visit the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, as it has shorter hours than the general grounds.
  • Arrive before 4:30 PM, as this is the last admittance time for the grounds daily.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the 451-acre site is expansive and requires significant walking.
  • Check for seasonal summer hours if you wish to visit on a weekday evening up to 8:00 PM.

Nearby context

Situated in northeast Washington, D.C., the Arboretum is approximately ten minutes from the Capitol Building and provides a vast green space that contrasts with the the urban density of the surrounding neighborhood.

Sources

Evidence and links