3 out of 5 Ants Rating!
The National Arboretum is a hidden gem, tucked away in northeast DC (Get Directions Here). The grounds are massive, with sections for every kind of garden species and tree. The highlights include a spectacular Bonsai exhibit (even in the winter, many of the Bonsai are still green, including those in the indoor tropical exhibit) and the columns from the US Capitol way back in 1828 (though only installed at the arboretum in the 90's).
The Capitol Columns are eery and magnificent at the same time
This is a great place to take a child to stretch their legs. Admission and parking are free. There are tons of paved areas to walk (long distances if you'd like), perfect for strollers or toddling. You could get a great workout here. I highly recommend coming for the fresh air and tranquility. Miss M enjoyed running around the Bonsai exhibit, particularly as the trail inside is made up of small rocks, which she enjoyed picking up and moving around (well, ok, you got me - she enjoyed throwing them around).
Beautiful trees throughout the arboretum
I give this venue a couple ants shy of 5 because there are not any specific young kid activities here (e.g., a playground or hands on exhibits, at least not when we visited), you can't navigate a stroller inside the bonsai exhibit area (small rocks everywhere) and you have to be a bit careful walking on the roads throughout the park as most folks don't obey the 20mph rule (more like 50mph). Overall, the National Arboretum makes for just a quiet lovely day. My mind always feels clear and calm after leaving there. Can't wait to return in the spring when everything is in full bloom!
Where should Antsy Mom and Toddler go next? Let us know!
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