I’ve been in the DC area for the better part of 27 years—the last 16 of which, I’ve lived within 10 miles of the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. Somehow, though, I didn’t manage to go there until last year.
I now realize the error of my ways. Man, was I missing out all those years!
Don’t get me wrong, it’s not going to eclipse the Tidal Basin during the cherry blossoms' peak bloom. For me, they’re the ultimate. But Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens has jumped right up into second place on the “must see every year” list.
The water lilies are awesome, but the lake behind my house has it’s own really decent collection of those. No, for me, it’s pretty much all about the lotus blossoms!
Wow—don’t think I’d ever seen lotus flowers in person before last year. Just love them!
I’ve been twice already this year and am contemplating a third trip. As huge as they are, I’ve managed to miss the the giant Amazonian lily pads on my previous visits. I have to see those!
If you’re in the vicinity of the nation’s capital in late June or early July, I highly recommend adding Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens to your itinerary. They even have an annual Lotus and Water Lily Festival! You can check it out on their website—they're a part of the National Park Service.
You're welcome.
Before I sign off, just a quick note to say that I’m putting the finishing touches on a gallery to sell my favorite floral and nature photographs. I'll be sharing a link to that in an upcoming post!