The United States Botanic Garden452

The United States Botanic Garden is one of the oldest botanic gardens in North America and informs visitors about the importance of plants to the well-being of humankind and to earth's fragile ecosystems.

The Conservatory houses permanent collections of plants from subtropical, tropical and arid regions. Special exhibits showcase orchids, medicinal, economic, endangered, and primitive plants. There is also a Children's Garden, where kids of all ages can dig, water, plant (when potted plants are available), and touch and smell the plants.

The three-acre National Garden showcases unusual, useful, and ornamental plants that grow well in the mid-Atlantic region, and features a Rose Garden, Butterfly Garden, Lawn Terrace, First Ladies' Water Garden, Regional Garden, and an outdoor amphitheater.

The USBG offers special exhibits and seasonal displays throughout the year, and tours are available by appointment. Visit during the holiday season and see the garden railway with landscapes and structures made of natural plant materials, including different types of bark, cones, and seed pods.

Sprouts is a free weekly workshop offered each month (4 sessions) to preschoolers (ages 3-5). Each Wednesday session includes varied activities such as a story, songs, art activity, or walk in the garden. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Check the website for dates and topics. The Sprouts classes fill up very quickly!