How do I get to the U.S. Botanic Garden (USBG)?
The easiest way to reach us is by taking Metrorail Orange or Blue line to the Federal Center SW station. Upon exiting the station, walk north (left) along Third Street for two blocks, cross Independence Avenue and continue one more block to Maryland Avenue. Look toward the Capitol and you will see the glass dome of the Conservatory. Enter on Maryland Avenue.
Is there a charge?
There is no admission fee to any area of the USBG.
When can I visit?
You may visit the Conservatory daily from 10 am to 5 pm, the National Garden from 10 am to 5 pm, and Bartholdi Park daily from dawn to dusk.
Is there parking/handicapped parking at the USBG?
Unfortunately, parking is extremely limited. Metered parking spaces are available within a few blocks of the USBG. In addition, several spaces at the Conservatory are designated for handicapped parking.
We encourage taking public transportation. For more information on using Metro Rail or Bus, please click here.
Does the USBG have restrooms?
Yes. Restrooms are available in the Conservatory.
Does the USBG have tours?
The USBG offers regularly scheduled Conservatory tours on Mondays and Thursdays at noon, and evening tours of the National Garden on Mondays at 5:30 p.m. during the summer months. We also offer group tours.
In addition, the USBG offers a cell phone tour throughout the Conservatory that includes a brief history of the USBG. Just call 202-730-9303 to get started.
Is food available?
There are no dining facilities available at the USBG. The closest facilities are located in the
Rayburn House Office Building, the Longworth House Office Building, the National Museum of the American Indian, and the National Gallery of Art. These buildings are open to the public. You will also find restaurants in the 3rd and D Streets, NW area.
What is there to see?
The USBG includes the Conservatory, the National Garden, and Bartholdi Park. The Conservatory features a wide variety of living exhibits, including seasonal exhibits. Approximately 4,000 plants are on display. The National Garden features plants native to the Mid-Atlantic region, as well as a Butterfly Garden, Rose Garden and First Ladies Water Garden. Bartholdi Park is an outdoor garden demonstration landscape and includes the historic Bartholdi Fountain. See our "What's in Bloom" page for current information.
May I take pictures or sketch?
Hand-held film or video cameras may be used at any time. The use of easels, tripods, or art material containing solvents requires special permission and a permit. To request a permit please call (202) 225-8333. Images of the USBG may not be used in commercial or promotional advertisements. The full text of our photography policy is available as a PDF document.
How long has the USBG been in existence?
The idea of a national botanic garden was proposed in 1816, and the Congress first established such a garden in 1820. For more information, see our Brief History of the USBG.
May I have my wedding/function at the USBG?
The USBG facilities are not available to reserve for weddings or other private functions.
Currently, the United States Botanic Garden allows a limited schedule of after-hours functions to be held at the Conservatory. The policies governing after-hours functions are established by the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress and state that all functions must be Congressionally related, Congressionally sponsored, and attended by the sponsoring Congressional officer. For more detailed information, please contact Laura Anthony at lanthony@aoc.gov or (202) 226-7674.
