Exploring Gardens in Washington, DC

Besides being the seat of government, Washington, DC is a place where history, art and culture fuse to form one of the most dynamic cities in the world. Amongst all that political power and the vast wealth of museums, theater, restaurants, shops and muscular architecture are the greenspaces. Whether you have a day or a weekend, this tour of gardens and parks will show you the softer, but no less majestic, side of DC.

Lace up your walking shoes and prepare to fuel up for the day at the Lafayette Room. This elegant dining room within the Hay-Adams Hotel is suffused with light and boasts views of the White House. The menu is full of tempting fare that includes omelettes made with Virginia eggs, tempting breads and muffins and hearty multi-grain cereals.

Your first stop is the US Botanic Garden, tucked into the heart of Capitol Hill. You'll be amazed by this historic, natural wonder. Originally created to collect and study plants, its development is closely intertwined with the evolution of the city.

Next up is an incredible juxtaposition of art and nature at the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden. Between the Capitol and the Washington Monument, this garden offers a tranquil oasis to stroll and contemplate over 60 works. Spanning nearly a century of artistic innovation, the large-scale sculptures chronicle the changing times much as the collections within the museum.

The amazing Enid A. Haupt Garden offers visitors four acres of welcoming brick paths, parterres, hanging baskets, and splashing fountains. So delightful is this landscape that you'll probably forget you're standing on the rooftops of the museums that comprise the Smithsonian complex.