This Saturday is National Take a Walk in the Park Day. Where will you be celebrating?
I’m pushing for another visit to Brookside Gardens. For my DC peeps, if you’ve not been, I suggest you add it to your list!
Brookside is located in Montgomery County, Maryland, so a short jaunt from the hustle and bustle of the District. I went for the first time two years ago and have been multiple times since.
My first two visits were smack in the middle of summer, but last year my older son and I snuck over in late March. Both of my boys work at a nursery, so they’re the perfect companions when photographing nature!
I was worried when we went around this time last year that it would be too early. That we wouldn't have much to see.
I was gladly mistaken!
There was no shortage of gorgeous blooms to be photographed. Magnolia, pussy willows, andromedas, cherry blossoms, just to name a few.
I had a ball photgraphing those early blooms
In fact, I captured some of my favorite royal star magnolia blossom shots on that visit. They’re featured in several of my Etsy store products, including:
There's a great illustrated map to guide your visit. Some of my favorite features are the
Aquatic Garden and Anderson Pavilion
Azalea Garden
Fragrance Garden (and the Wedding Gazebo!)
Japanese Tea House
If you’re interested in visiting, be sure to check their list of what’s in bloom each month to choose the best time.
Brookside is definitely one of my favorite places to revisit—tell me about your favorite spots in the comments below!