Visitors will be stunned by the eery beauty of the original 1882 Capitol columns at the National Arboretum and the park's sweeping grounds and gardens, a shockingly pastoral escape in the middle of the city. There's more than enough landscape to explore here, from a reflecting pool and pond to a seriously badass bonsai collection that will wow anyone, green thumb or not.

Where: U.S. National Arboretum, 3501 New York Avenue NE; 202-245-2726.


Photos: Courtesy of U.S. National Arboretum