If you are visiting Washington DC, don’t spend your entire vacation on exploring museums, shopping malls, the most famous local restaurants and similar. In order to really see the beauty of the city, you should also send at least one day exploring DC’s natural beauty by visiting some of the most beautiful public parks and gardens in the US. These parks and gardens are equally fun and exciting both for adventurous outdoor enthusiasts and individuals who are looking for a relaxing leisure time.
Constitution Gardens
Constitution Gardens are an urban park that also provides a safe and comfortable natural habitat for the local native animals. These gardens are still in a planning phase and they constantly undergo improvements. Even they are not fully accessible today, these gardens are a perfect spot to rest under the shady trees and enjoy the nature that surrounds you. You can also search for a bench and feed the local ducks that are very friendly. If you are looking for learning something new, you should take a walk by the Reflecting Pool, or on the concrete path from the World War II. This concrete path leads right to Lincoln Memorial.
Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens
No matter what time of the year you decide to visit, you must visit Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. These gardens are located on the east bank of the Anacostia River, and they are breathtaking and magical during the entire year and all four seasons.
If you have decided to come during the summer, you mustn’t miss seeing the delicate water lilies in full bloom. This park is peaceful and relaxing, and it is perfect if you are looking for a day off everyday stress. Pick one of the several hiking trails and explore this national park with a loved one or all by yourself.
Hirshhorn Museum’s Sculpture Garden
This is another amazing location to spend a leisure day off leaving al your worries behind. Many tourists call it a zen treasure in the middle of the National Mall. If you decide to visit Hirshhorn Museum’s Sculpture Garden, you will be able to enjoy 1.5 acre garden and more than fifty pieces of sculpture.
If you are an art history lover, you should know that there is a masterpiece of Auguste Rodin here, titled Les Bourgeois de Calais. Also, if you into modern art, you definitely must see Imagine Peace Wish Tree by Yoko Ono, and other notable works by Matisse, De Kooning and Calder.
National Museum of American History’s Victory Garden
The Victory Garden is located on the grounds of the National Museum of American History. A little known fact is that the National Museum of American History’s Victory Garden is inspired by some of the not-so-happy moment in the American history. People planted in this garden during two world wars when food was in very short supply. Plants, herbs and vegetable native to America are successfully planted here and they all have layered growing seasons. The Victory Garden is available to visit during the entire year.