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U.S. Botanic Garden

Washington, DC’s Living Plant Museum on the National Mall

By Rachel Cooper, About.com

Photo © Rachel Cooper, licensed to About.com, Inc.
The U.S. Botanic Garden, established by Congress in 1820, is a living plant museum located on the National Mall across from the U.S. Capitol. The Conservatory reopened in December 2001 after a four-year renovation, showcasing an impressive state-of-the-art indoor garden with approximately 4,000 seasonal, tropical and subtropical plants. The U.S. Botanic Garden is administered by the Architect of the Capitol and offers special exhibits and educational programs throughout the year.

Also a part of the U. S. Botanic Garden, Bartholdi Park is located across the street from the conservatory. This beautifully landscaped flower garden has as its centerpiece, a classical style fountain that was created by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the French sculptor who also designed the Statue of Liberty.

See Photos of the Botanic Garden

The National Garden opened in October 2006 as an extension to the U.S. Botanic Garden and serves as an outdoor annex and learning laboratory. The National Garden includes a First Ladies' water garden, an extensive rose garden, a butterfly garden, and a display of a variety of regional trees, shrubs and perennials.

Location
The U.S. Botanic Garden is located on the National Mall across from the U.S. Capitol along First Street, SW, between Maryland Avenue and C Street. Bartholdi Park sits behind the Conservatory and is accessible from Independence Avenue, Washington Avenue or First Street. The closest Metro station is Federal Center SW. See a map and directions to the National Mall

Admission
Free

Hours
The Conservatory is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Bartholdi Park is accessible from dawn until dusk.

Official Website
www.usbg.gov

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