Hollister House Garden — Attraction in Washington

On a sunny Tuesday morning, I had the pleasure of visiting Hollister House Garden, a trip organized by Old Westbury Gardens. We departed from Old Westbury Gardens at about 8 o’clock, and despite the morning traffic, we arrived at our destination in approximately two hours. Our tour was a special arrangement as Hollister House Garden is usually closed on Tuesdays. We were fortunate to have George Schoellkopf as our guide, who also happens to be the director, one of the developers of the garden, a board member, and a writer for various gardening magazines. Although we could not tour the inside of the house, which dates back to the 18th century and is built in the Georgian style, we had ample time to explore the stunning garden. The garden, initiated in the 1970s by George and another designer, spans over 20 acres of mostly wooded land. It is exceptionally well-planned and maintained, with neatly cut lawns and well-cared-for plants. Some plants had labels, though it would have been helpful to have more detailed signage as some of us were interested in identifying and possibly planting them in our own gardens. The property itself, which has undergone several additions over the years, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2010. The garden is expansive and includes barns and other structures from the 18th and 19th centuries. One notable feature was a poster of garden etiquette at the entrance, which outlines several visitor rules. However, the garden has many steps without railings, making certain areas challenging to navigate for those with physical impairments. While the restrooms were clean and the lawns well-maintained, the addition of handrails, more garbage pails, and a drinking water fountain would enhance the...

We were just bowled over by this place. As we strolled through the different layers, it seemed as though each view was better than the last. Hollister House Garden is an American interpretation of classic English gardens with a mix of the formal and the natural. This is an absolutely spectacular collection of plants and flowers. Created in 1979 by George Schoellkopf, the garden stretches out from a rambling eighteenth-century house. Giant, ten-foot-tall, perfectly sculpted hedges create an architectural structure that helps define a series of "rooms" within the garden, each with its own inspiring style. On our visit, a volunteer guide roamed the site, answering questions and offering suggestions. Their website provides a monthly preview of what's in bloom. We will definitely be back to see what new...

Beautiful, serene, relaxing. Just happened to Google “gardens” while in the area and this place popped up. Small fee for entry ($10pp) to these beautiful grounds. Used to be an old dairy farm. Got to talk to the current owner for a few minutes. Very friendly, welcoming, and informative. We plan on returning once each season to experience the full scope of this stunning property. An absolute must see if...