The conservatory
A tropical jungle.
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The oldest continually operating botanic garden in the United States, at the foot of the Capitol to its south-west. It is overseen by Congress through the Architect of the Capitol and is open every day of the year, holidays included. It was first proposed in 1816 and granted land by Congress in 1820, and its building moved to the present site in 1933. The highlight is the great glass conservatory with its tall dome, holding a tropical jungle, desert plants and rare and endangered species. Beside the conservatory is an outdoor National Garden with seasonal flower beds, a rose garden, native plants and places to sit, with views of the Capitol dome, and in the holiday season it puts on a famous show of trains and miniature landmarks made from plants. Entry is free and it opens daily, per visitor guides. It makes a calm, refreshing break between the museums of the Mall, especially on cold or hot days when the conservatory offers a change of climate.
A tropical jungle.
Outdoors.
In the background.
Southwest of the Capitol, National Mall, Washington
United States CapitolThe seat of both houses of the United States Congress, on Capitol Hill at the ea5 minutes walk4.8
National Air and Space MuseumThe Smithsonian museum of human flight and space exploration, whose main buildin8 minutes walk4.7
National Gallery of ArtOne of the foremost art museums in the United States, on the National Mall, foun9 minutes walk4.9
Library of CongressThe de facto national library of the United States and the research library of C9 minutes walk4.7
Washington Union StationA historic railway station, transport hub and shopping destination near Capitol 15 minutes walk4.4Yes, entry is free and it opens daily, per visitor guides.