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District of Columbia · Est. 1820
United States Botanic Garden
Discover a living plant museum inspiring appreciation, study, and conservation of the plant world for a richer society.
Founded
1820
Size
4 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 7a
Best Season
April to September, when the outdoor gardens are in full bloom and have extended evening hours.
About United States Botanic Garden
The United States Botanic Garden (USBG) is the oldest continuously operating public garden in the United States, established by Congress in 1820. Located on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., it spans approximately 4 acres, offering diverse plant collections from around the globe. The USBG serves as a vital educational and scientific resource, fostering a deeper understanding of botany and environmental stewardship.
History & Heritage
The concept for a national botanic garden was first proposed in 1816 by the Columbian Institute for the Promotion of Arts and Sciences. On May 8, 1820, President James Madison signed legislation designating land for the garden. Its permanent collection was re-established in 1842 with plants brought back from the U.S. Exploring Expedition (Wilkes Expedition). The Victorian Conservatory opened in 1850, and the garden moved to its current location in 1933, continuously operating and open to the public since.
Signature Feature
Bartholdi Fountain
The Bartholdi Fountain, designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, is a magnificent cast-iron fountain completed in 1876. It serves as a centerpiece of the Bartholdi Park, offering a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy the garden's beauty and horticultural displays.
Bloom-planning note
Best Time to See Blooms at United States Botanic Garden
The strongest overall display is typically April to September, when the outdoor gardens are in full bloom and have extended evening hours.. That window combines the garden's major collections with the regional sequence of flowering trees, bulbs, perennials, and seasonal color.
Timing changes with weather, elevation, and individual collection conditions. Confirm bloom progress directly with the garden before planning a special visit.
Photo Gallery
Lush tropical foliage within the Conservatory
Vibrant floral displays in the outdoor gardens
The iconic Bartholdi Fountain amidst seasonal plantings
Notable Collections
Jungle Room
A vibrant, humid environment showcasing tropical plants from rainforests worldwide, complete with a second-story catwalk for canopy views.
Garden Court
A central, open space within the Conservatory featuring diverse seasonal displays and special exhibits.
National Garden
An outdoor area dedicated to regional plants native to the Atlantic Coastal Plain and Piedmont, alongside a rose garden, butterfly garden, and the First Ladies Water Garden.
Orchid House
A specialized collection displaying a stunning array of orchids from various climates and regions, highlighting their diversity and beauty.
Plan Before You Go
Hours, Parking & Accessibility
Hours & Seasonal Timing
Conservatory: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (closed Dec. 25); Gated Outdoor Gardens: 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily (April 1 – September 15), 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily (rest of year, closed Dec. 25); Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens: Dawn to dusk.
Best seasonal window: April to September, when the outdoor gardens are in full bloom and have extended evening hours.
Parking & Arrival
Limited metered street parking available in the vicinity; public transportation via Federal Center SW metro station is highly recommended.
Check the official visit page for event-day parking changes and arrival instructions.
Accessibility
The garden strives for full accessibility, offering accessible facilities, restrooms, and child changing tables. Service dogs are welcome in all areas.
Contact the garden before visiting to discuss route conditions, mobility equipment, or support needs.
Visitor details are reviewed from the garden's public information and were last checked May 2026. Policies, prices, and route conditions can change; confirm final arrangements directly with the garden.
Recognition & Awards
- Oldest continuously operating public garden in the United States
Editorial Standards
This profile was prepared by the BotanicalGardens.blog editorial research desk using official garden pages and other named sources where available. Hours, admission, and access details can change; confirm them with the garden before a special trip. This profile was last reviewed May 2026. If you notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
April to September, when the outdoor gardens are in full bloom and have extended evening hours.
Address
100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone
(202) 225-8333
Hours
Conservatory: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (closed Dec. 25); Gated Outdoor Gardens: 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily (April 1 – September 15), 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily (rest of year, closed Dec. 25); Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens: Dawn to dusk.
Admission
Free, no tickets required.
Parking
Limited metered street parking available in the vicinity; public transportation via Federal Center SW metro station is highly recommended.
Accessibility
The garden strives for full accessibility, offering accessible facilities, restrooms, and child changing tables. Service dogs are welcome in all areas.
Insider Tips
- 1Wear comfortable shoes, as there is much to explore both indoors and outdoors.
- 2Visit during weekdays or early mornings for a more tranquil experience.
- 3Check the website for current exhibits and educational programs.
- 4Bring a reusable water bottle; refill stations are available inside the Conservatory.
Nearby Attractions
- United States Capitol Building (0.2 miles)
- National Museum of the American Indian (0.4 miles)
- National Air and Space Museum (0.6 miles)
Stays near United States Botanic Garden
For an overnight visit, compare options around the garden address and choose the route, accessibility features, and cancellation terms that fit your plans.