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www.FredericksburgParent.NET 21 U.S. ARBORETUM HERB GARDEN Familiar smells and textures await visitors to the Herb Garden. You may or may not be able to guess the differ- ent herbs, but each is clearly marked with a sign. You'll find collections of rosemary, lavender, and chili peppers, just to mention a few. It's a fairly small space full of color and smells, and some pollinators will probably share the space with you. Don't be concerned. They are just looking for nectar and won't bother you if you don't bother them. From the Herb Garden, you will see big columns on the hill—22 of them, to be exact. These columns used to be part of the Capitol building until they were replaced in 1958. They finally landed at the Arboretum in the 1980s. Twenty acres of meadow and a small reflecting pool sur- round the columns. The view from the top of the hill is stunning. U.S. National Arboretum Details 3501 New York Ave. NE, Washington, D.C. usna.usda.gov GPS address: 2400 R St. NE Admission: Free Dogs: Allowed on a leash Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Most paths are stroller and wheelchair accessible, but not all. U.S. NATIONAL ARBORETUM YOUTH GARDEN Walk down the hill and head into paths surrounding Fern Valley, or walk across the road to the Youth Garden, which would be my preference. Even without kids, the Yough Garden is spectacular. It is divided into sections that include a pollinator garden, vegetable gardens, a banana tree, an orchard, and a stack of four honeybee hives. You'll love this if you are a gar- dener, as there are plenty of great ideas for arranging and supporting your plants. The most interesting part is the honeybee hives. A little picket fence keeps observers a respectable distance away, but you can still watch the bees coming and going. There are picnic tables under the trees if you want to bring your lunch. Heading toward the back of the Arboretum and nearest the Anacostia River, you'll find many gardens, large trees, hidden lookouts, and more collections of flowers, ferns, and trees. It's easy to keep exploring in this calming environment. There are nine miles of paved roadways and even more hiking trails. Just remember you have to walk back to your car. The Arboretum comprises more than 400 acres, with many paths and hidden gardens.