Spring is one of my favorite times in Washington DC. Usually the apple blossoms come out, followed by the famous cherry blossoms, everyone’s fantastic tulips, and then the azaleas. Plus, it’s before the weather becomes sort of awful, particularly for running (and sometimes for being outside in general). The dog also loves spring, before it gets too hot that she hops from shade spot to shade spot or just wants to laze inside under the A/C.
While I drive past it every day going to work, we had actually not been to the National Arboretum until a few weeks ago. And you know what? That’s too bad. While it is a bit of a drive as it is right on the edge of the District, it’s worth it. Plus, they allow on-leash dogs! We went out to also buy some plants at their annual plant sale, which supports the Arboretum.
The volunteers at the Arboretum are not only nice, they are helpful. If there is something specific you want to see, or are interested in, they can really point you in the right direction. There are so many different sections of the Arboretum, and it is also a great place to picnic, run, bike, or let the dog explore. They also had a pair of nesting bald eagles this year!
I really wanted to check out both the dogwoods and the azaleas this year, which were in peak bloom or close to it when we visited. They do have a great trolley tour if you don’t feel like walking, and I think it’s only $5. All the plants and trees are really well labeled, and the paths and roads are maintained. The dog loved sniffing profusely and running with DH all over the grassy areas.
Side note: it’s tick season, so check your dogs and your humans after you are outside!
In DC? Have a dog? Looking for something different to do? Check out the Arboretum (admission is always free). I don’t think it ever gets crazy busy, as there is so much space there for people to spread out. It’s definitely one of DC’s underrated sights.
(These photos are from my very old iphone 4S. Just imagine the photos you could get from a good camera–it’s a wonderful place for good fauna photography!)
