How to Visit the Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens are both a living museum and a natural treasure chest. National Botanical Gardens exist in almost every country in the world and serve as a place for research, study and enjoyable visits. Botanical Gardens inspire and refresh their visitors, many of whom are not gardeners themselves but appreciate the natural beauty found in botanical gardens. Here's how to make the most of your visit to the United States Botanical Gardens in Washington, D.C.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Download "A Botanic Garden for the Nation" eBook from the National Botanical Garden's website to learn more about the National Botanical Gardens before your visit. Print the book or make notes about what you would like to see at the Botanical Gardens.

2. Visit the U.S. Botanical Gardens website to learn about current events, displays and exhibits. See what programs or lectures you can attend at the Botanical Gardens.

3. Go to the Botanical Gardens on a clear, mild day. Since the botanical gardens are largely out-of-doors, you'll want to visit when the weather is best and won't hamper your trip.

4. Bring your camera and take plenty of pictures to remember your trip to the Botanical Gardens. Take snapshots of your favorite flowers and those you would like to plant in your own gardens.

5. Get ideas for your home gardening and greenhouse plants while at the Botanical Gardens. Jot down the names of plants you like and would work in your climate.

6. Look for the endangered plant of the weak, showcased by the Botanical Gardens. Learn about conservation efforts to preserve rare plant species at the botanical gardens.

Resources

• U.S. Botanic Garden in Washington, DC
• U.S. Tropical Botanic Garden in Washington, DC