Hop on a Tram @ The National Arboretum

While folks know DC for its National Mall area, crammed with tourist goodies ranging from free Smithsonian Museums to the National momument, few think of DC when it comes to natural scenery. You'd be missing out if you didn't pay at least one visit with the kids to the US National Arboretum. Voted as the Best Enviro-friendly Place in DC by ParentsConnect.com, the US National Arboretum is located in northeast DC and bordered on the east by the banks of the Anacostia River. This 446 acre hotspot is a wonderful place for kids to romp and learn about nature. And make sure to have some change with you, as feeding the koi behind the administration building is one of children's favorite activities here.

The Arboretum grounds have retained most of the natural woods, including beeches, oaks, and tulip poplars, which stood on the grounds when the land was purchased. The exhibition areas are located either along the roadways or on pebbled paths off the roadside. Their design varies from the formal landscaping of the Gotelli Dwarf Conifer Collection on the north shoulder of Hickey Road to the natural planting of crabapples along Hickey Hill Road. Fern Valley is limited to ferns and other plants native to eastern North America. Oh, and don't leave without taking a tram ride!

The tram is a professionally driven, taped tour, which highlights the 446 acres of the U.S. National Arboretum’s gardens, collections and natural areas. Our 48-passenger open air tram is equipped to accommodate two wheelchair users. It also features a convenient storage bay for strollers and other carry-on items.

Public Tram Tours Information

Tour Hours:	10:30 a.m. (Only available if not previously reserved.  Please call prior if you are planning to take this tour.) 11:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m.
Tickets:	On sale at the ticket kiosk located in the parking lot near the R Street Gate. Tickets must be purchased the day of the tour. Gift Certificates are available.
Ticket Prices:	Adults FONA & NBF members and Seniors Children aged 4-16 Children under 4	$4.00 $3.00 $2.00 Free (must share a seat with adult if tram is full).

*** Refunds are not given unless the U.S. National Arboretum cancels the tour. 

Visit http://www.usna.usda.gov/ for more info