Overview
The U.S. National Arboretum is a living museum that showcases a diverse collection of plants and trees, offering over 446 acres of gardens, exhibits, and natural beauty. It's a perfect place for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Washington DC.
The National Arboretum serves as a research and conservation facility for the United States Department of Agriculture and provides educational opportunities for the public to learn about plants and trees.
Location
Address
3501 New York Ave. NE, Washington DC
Neighborhood: Northeast Washington
Coordinates
38.906900, -76.973800
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better chance to see wildlife
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • Cherry blossoms
- • National Grove of State Trees
summer
hot and humid
- • National Herb Garden
- • Azalea collections
autumn
cool and crisp
- • Fall foliage
- • National Collections of Trees
winter
cold
- • Evergreen collections
- • National Bonsai & Penjing Museum
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Free entry
- Check weather
- Bring water
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: easy to moderate
- • uneven terrain
- • dehydration risks
Medical facilities: first aid available, but limited
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required
- • official website for events
- • N/A
- • N/A
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
US National Arboretum
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Event Calendar, Audio Guide, Gardens Guide
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor Center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Visitor Center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful gardens, and a peaceful retreat from the city
Historical Significance: Established in 1927, the National Arboretum has been a hub for plant research and conservation, offering a rich history and diverse plant collections.
Insider Tips
- Free entry and parking
- Best food at the on-site cafe
- Visit the National Capitol Columns for a unique photo opportunity
Local Recommendations
- • Try local cafe
- • Ask for guide John
- • Visit the nearby National Capitol Columns
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
National Grove of State Trees
Best Time: Golden hour (late afternoon)
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the expansive grove
Result: Beautiful, serene images of diverse state trees
National Bonsai & Penjing Museum
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Close-ups to capture the intricate details of the bonsai trees
Result: Stunning, detailed shots of ancient and delicate bonsai trees
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
National Capitol Columns
Distance: 0.5 km
Walking: 10 min
Type: Historical Site
Kenwood Neighborhood
Distance: 1 km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Neighborhood
H Street NE
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Entertainment District
Reviews
Based on 12,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early"
- "Bring water"
- "Check the map"
- "Great views"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
0
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
12,000
Adult Entry
free