Kenilworth Park and Aquatic gardens in Washington DC is a great way to take in nature, even though your right by the city; you could take a stroll through the magnificent water gardens, have a picnic with your family, or take in a soccer or rugby match at one of the athletic fields in the park.
Part of the Anacostia National Park, this area of preservation began cultivation in the late 19th century by Walter Shaw. Shaw bought a small piece of land and began planting water lilies from his native state of Maine, the plants flourished and he continued cultivating several ponds to make the area truly special. When Shaw died his daughter was maintaining the gardens, which were a huge success, even Presidents came to spend time at the lovely ponds. In 1938 Congress bought the land and added it to Anacostia National Park, so the gardens would always be preserved for all to enjoy.
Many visitors are disappointed when they arrive in the afternoon and the flowers are no longer blooming. The flowers on the pond close when the temperature hits about 89 or 90 degrees F, so plan your visit early in the day if you want to catch the beautiful water foliage.
Summer garden tours are on Saturdays and Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day. There is no fee to come to the park, pets are welcome as long as they are on a leash. Be aware, the park floods in heavy rain, so be prepared for soft ground if it's been raining a lot.
