Wander this DC treasure for hours with little ones

The US Botanic Garden is located on the Mall in Washington DC very close to the Capitol.  I have many favorites in the DC area and this one is at the top of my list. The Conservatory is a great place to go on a rainy or chilly day.  Often docents are positioned throughout the Conservatory with samples and explanations of different plants. (I personally enjoyed the explanation of the Cacao plant).  

Walking through the rain forest, the desert, the orchid room (such beautiful colors) you can't help but feel the calm of nature. For an adventure, jump on the elevator or climb the stairs up to the skywalk, peer at the green below and take in an awesome view of the city.  The sunroom is a favorite destination to smell different plants and herbs encased in giant metal flowers.

The Children's Garden, which is open seasonally, is located at the center of the Conservatory, gives youngsters the opportunity to dig in the dirt, plant plants, and play in the water.  Be prepared with a dry change of clothes, I often dressed them in bathing suits for fun in the mud!  Make sure to bring your camera, the photo ops are endless. 

On nice days the outside gardens are a great place to catch some sun and explore the variety of different plants.  During the warmer months, tables and chairs are scattered throughout the gardens next to the Conservatory, perfect for a snack or picnic. Across Independence Avenue,  Bartholdi Park is open from dawn to dusk and is another spot to enjoy the flowers and plants with the little ones. 

The US Botanic Gardens is an often overlooked spot to take the kids but I highly suggest you give it a try.  Christmas at the Botanical Gardens is truly magical.

The closest metro stop is Federal Center SW.