DC may be a small city of only 68 square miles, but that doesn’t limit the number of places to explore here. One of my favorite parts of this city is that no matter where you are, you are never too far from a park or some other green space. As an outsider to DC, you may think of the National Mall when it comes to green space. Or if you live here… Rock Creek Park or Meridian Hill/Malcolm X Park may come to mind. However, my favorite hidden gem in DC when I’m craving nature is the National Arboretum.
While at 412 acres it’s hard to imagine this is a “hidden gem,” but due to being tucked up in Northeast and not the most pedestrian friendly location, it’s hardly ever busy. Besides the slight difficulty in getting there, the biggest downside of the arboretum is that it is only open 8-5 every day which means for those of us who work the usual office job, we can’t explore it during the week.
The most popular and most photographed location at the National Arboretum is the National Capitol Columns. These Corinthian Columns were considered too fragile for support of the expanded dome in 1958, but did not find their permanent home at the arboretum until 1989.
I’ve been there plenty of times, but I still don’t think I’ve explored every part of it. I’m just down the street from it, so it’s a great place to bring your pup for a nice morning or afternoon walk on the weekend. I don’t think there is a bad time to year to visit, however, my favorites are (of course) the fall and spring.
The Tidal Basin may get all the attention with during the cherry blossom blooming, but visit the National Arboretum and you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty without the crowds. Visit in the fall with the leaves changing colors, and you won’t be disappointed. If visiting in the winter, you can warm up by stopping in the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum (note, not dog friendly).
Close by is the newly developing neighborhood of Ivy City. I suggest stopping by Atlas Brew Works for some tasty beers after you explore the National Arboretum. Even better… if you’ve taken your four legged friend for a walk at the arboretum, Atlas is dog friendly inside and out! Another favorite of mine in the area is La Puerta Verde for some Mexican fare (happy hour is from 3-5pm on Saturdays and Sundays).
before ya go to the national arboretum:
Hours: 8-5 (open every day but Christmas!)
How to Get There: Two entrances—one on R St NE off of Bladensburg Rd and one on New York Ave. For public transportation, the B2 Metrobus will drop you off at the R St entrance. For biking, there is a Capital Bikeshare right outside the R St entrance as well.
Cost: Free!
For more information, visit the official website
