Arboretum Recreation Center — Local services in Washington

Everyone loves the cherry blossoms. We have a parade to honor them. Meteorologists track weather to provide peak viewing times. I heard that this year’s throngs of phone snapping tourists have even been seen from space! But what about the vibrant beauty of the azaleas in the National Arboretum? If you haven’t seen them, you must! Surprise fragrances will also take you by surprise as you wander over the grounds. Granted the park can be pretty full on the weekends but these were taken Tuesday morning. If you are lucky enough to have some time during the week, come and enjoy! The place is huge and the azaleas are just a small piece of this...

For the whole summer, adults were not allowed inside the new building. Manager said it's only for the kids who signed up for the summer program. The sign on the building says open until 8:00 pm. I've went to the rec center numerous times in the summer after 6:30 pm and it's been CLOSED. Today is 9/25/2023. Called after 6:30 pm. Nobody is picking up the phone just like in the summer. So, does it close at 5:00? 4:00? Please remove the "open until 8:00 pm" sign on the building and website and put in the actual closing...

What a gem! This place is an outstanding place to spend an afternoon. The grounds are well maintained and full of a huge variety of flora. The bonsai exhibit is exceptional; with some dating back to the mid 1800's. Bring a bike, a book and some lunch and mix said ingredients (although, don't try reading while biking).

After you leave this place, you'll wanna go throw some half-smokes on the grill and pop open a colbeer (preferably...