Postcard Getaway

Discover peaceful retreats, historic landscapes, and hidden botanical gems tucked away in the heart of Washington DC.

Written by Kaelie Piscitello

Washington D.C. invites tourists and aspiring politicians from around the United States to bask in its unique environment, which is filled with many museums and memorials and, of course, the central government. However, it also has several secret gardens worth exploring for a peaceful escape from the city’s everyday hustle and bustle.

Explore a quieter, lesser-known side of our nation’s capital in quiet green spaces. These secret gardens provide a fresh perspective on D.C. and allow its people to tuck into green spaces amid some of the most chaotic spaces. They remind everyone that nature thrives in unexpected places, even in political powerhouses like D.C.

The U.S. Botanic Garden’s Hidden Terrace

The U.S. Botanic Gardens feature lush greenery from around the world for everyone to enjoy. However, many tourists don’t realize the second floor is home to a secret terrace where viewers can enjoy the greenery from above. As a result, the space often remains empty, and those who know about it can enjoy a moment away from the crowds.

This spot is filled with flowers and plants, and people can sit and relax there at any time of the day. Visit this location during the spring and early summer when the flowers and trees bloom.

The Dumbarton Oaks Gardens

Many people will skip Dumbarton Oaks Gardens in exchange for another activity, but those who do miss out. Dumbarton Oaks supports learning in Byzantine and provides fellowships for students. In addition to a museum presenting the scholars’ findings, the company also hosts musical events and scholarly activities where people can learn more about Mesoamerica and the Byzantine Empire.

Designed by Beatrix Farrand, this historic space features terraced plants and European-style landscaping. It feels like a real escape away from the city’s busy atmosphere.

Many travelers love the Rose Garden for its pleasant perfumes and eye-catching blooms. Others prefer to stroll by the Lover’s Lane Pool for a nice walk by the water. The route spreads from Georgetown into Rock Creek Park and features bamboo and columns that support the perfect oval of Lover’s Lane Pool.

Visit Dumbarton Oaks during the fall to see beautiful fall foliage or in the spring to witness magnolias and cherry trees bloom. Tickets to enter cost between $7 and $10.

The Bishop’s Garden at the National Cathedral

When people tour the National Cathedral, they often forget to stop by the Bishop’s Garden, a fairytale-like space with stone pathways, gorgeous seasonal flowers, and peace. 

Some liken this place to a medieval stone-walled green space, and its architects drew inspiration from English monastery grounds. It features plants native to Washington and mentioned in the Bible to give the home a more historical feel.

This terrace once granted access to the Bishop as it was part of his grounds. However, landscapers, such as Florence Brown Bratenahl, shaped it into today’s public spot.  

The grounds remain cost-free and open to tourists year-round. Visit in the winter to experience a peaceful snowy landscape or in the summer to admire the vibrant flower beds.

The Gardens of Tudor Palace

Architects modelled Georgetown’s Tudor Palace as a Federal-style mansion with elegant fountains, boxwood hedges, and quiet alcoves perfect for a peaceful escape. Many know it for its well-preserved historical gardens.

The Tudor Palace housed the Peter family for almost 80 years and holds one of the largest collections of items owned by George and Martha Washington (besides Mount Vernon). Today, it comprises the North and South Lawn, and both reflect different influences. The North has many types of European formal yards, while the South features an English landscape.

Entrance costs between $3 and $10, and trip advisors recommend going in the spring to watch the wisteria and dogwood plants burst into bloom.

The Enid A. Haupt Garden at the Smithsonian Castle

Nearby the Smithsonian Castle and the National Mall, the Enid A. Haupt Garden brings an oasis to D.C. with flower beds, shaded benches, and French courtyard gardens. Many people miss it because they focus on the museums. However, the Smithsonian Castle provides an excellent getaway for anyone looking to relax during the busiest moments of their trip. 

This place has many parts, including the Renwick Gates, the Moongate Garden, which the architect based on the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, and the famous Parterre, the garden’s centerpiece.

This four-acre green place sits on the rooftop of the Smithsonian Palace, and visitors can stroll around it despite the current construction.  Visit this secret garden during the spring for its gorgeous tulips or in the summer to enjoy lush greenery.