Overview
The United States Botanic Garden is a living plant museum that displays a wide array of plants from around the globe. It is a unique and beautiful attraction featuring indoor and outdoor gardens, including a conservatory with diverse plant collections, a Japanese garden, and a children's garden.
The garden preserves and displays a diverse collection of plants, promoting plant conservation, sustainability, and education.
Location
Address
100 Maryland Ave. SW, Washington DC
Neighborhood: Capitol Hill
Coordinates
38.887600, -77.004600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • cherry blossoms
- • tulips
summer
hot and humid
- • summer blooms
- • outdoor concerts
autumn
cool and crisp
- • fall foliage
- • harvest displays
winter
cold
- • holiday decorations
- • winter blooms
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Free admission
- Bring ID for security
- Check for events and exhibitions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low to moderate
- • stay hydrated in summer
- • wear sunscreen
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, inappropriate attire
Booking Tips
- • not required, but recommended for groups
- • official website
- • not applicable for general admission
- • not applicable, free entry
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
USBG Garden Guide
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Plant information, Event calendar, Audio guides
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
Distance: 5 km
Travel Time: 15 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Beautiful and peaceful retreat in the city
Historical Significance: One of the oldest botanic gardens in the U.S., established to promote plant research and education
Insider Tips
- Best photo opportunities are in the conservatory
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience
- Check for free guided tours
Local Recommendations
- • Visit nearby cafes in Capitol Hill
- • Ask for guide recommendations at the visitor center
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French, ASL
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Conservatory
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the light through the glass
Result: Stunning shots of plants and light
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
U.S. Capitol
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Monument
National Mall
Distance: 500m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Park
Library of Congress
Distance: 400m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Check out the conservatory"
- "Free and beautiful"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
20
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
Free