United States National Arboretum

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Lonely Planet review

Way out in Northeast DC are 446 acres of blooming trees, ornamental plants and lovely verdant meadows. But because it's hard to access the national gardens - they're in a gritty area far from the Metro - they remain among DC's most hidden treasures and are a wonderful place to stroll and flower-peep in peace.

Stop at the Administration Building near the R St gate for a map and information. Highlights include the Bonsai & Penjing Museum (; to ), east of the Administration Building, and the Capitol Columns Garden, south along Ellipse Rd. The latter is studded with Corinthian pillars removed from the Capitol in the 1950s.

The best times to visit are spring (March to May, when the azaleas bloom) and fall (September to November, for colorful autumn leaves). No direct buses serve the gardens and it's hard to negotiate them on foot, so drive or bike.