Botanic Garden: Warm Escape from Winter Blues

As winter sets in and the temperature starts to drop, you may begin to daydream about escaping to a warm, tropical place. However, you may not be able to take time off work or spend money on an expensive vacation.

Luckily, you can escape to the Conservatory at the U.S. Botanic Garden on the National Mall. Be prepared to shed the layers of winter clothing, as you enter into the balmy atmosphere of the Conservatory, which holds over 26,000 plants, including ferns, orchids, medicinal plants, cacti, bromeliads and more.

At the Visitor Information Desk, you can pick up some information about permanent and temporary exhibits, and find out about free 45-minute highlight tours. If you go there during the holiday season, you can check out the Savor the Season exhibit, which runs till Jan. 7, and enjoy live music in the evenings on Dec. 14, 21 & 28.

After finding out about exhibits and tours, make your way to the Garden Court, where you will notice beautiful mosaic-tiled foundations in the middle of the courtyard. Take a moment to acclimate to the temperature, and then continue towards the East Gallery and enter into the Garden Primeval. You will feel like you have traveled back to the time of the dinosaurs when fiddlehead ferns, cycads and other ancient plants were abundant.

Continue through the Oasis to the World Desert area. Tall cacti and other unusual thorny plants will greet you here. In the next area, you will learn all about different types of medicinal plants and how they are used in different cultures around the world. Keep walking straight and journey into the world of whimsical, colorful orchids.

Don’t forget to experience the Jungle located in the center of the Conservatory. You can walk up or take the elevator to the Catwalk and have an aerial view of the Jungle. After taking photos or enjoying the view from above, you can return to the Jungle to get some rest. You might hear sprays of mist in the Jungle area, but don’t worry you won’t get too wet. The mist helps to maintain a level of humidity preferred by the trees and plants in this area. Before leaving the Conservatory, take in some deep breaths of fresh oxygen and prepare yourself to return to the reality of winter.

TIPS FOR VISITING THE CONSERVATORY
- Hours: 10 am to 5 pm, including weekends & holidays
- Try to come early to beat the crowds.
- Eat before you come. There is no food available here.
- Yes, it’s free like many museums in DC.
- Getting there: Main entrance is located at100 Maryland Avenue, SW.
The closest Metro stops are Federal Center SW or Capital South stations on the Orange/Blue lines. However, the Metro bus #30, 32, 34, 35, or 36 leaves you closer to the Conservatory.
- If the season and temperature are right, you can also enjoy the outdoor gardens located near the Conservatory.
- Can’t make it to the garden? Take a virtual tour.
- Find out what’s in bloom before your visit.

SHARE QUESTIONS & TIPS
Is there a botanic garden near you?
Where do you like to go to seek refuge from winter in your city?