Washington is the seat of the national government and the political leaders of the United States of America. It is the place where laws and regulations that ensure the well-being of every American citizen are created and passed.

As the nation’s capital, it is home to various monuments and memorials of past president and leaders and heroes that helped to shape the country into what it is now. However, aside from these historic landmarks and government structures, there are certain places in the state where you can find relief from the serious political atmosphere of the place.

The Tidal Basin

Located adjacent to the Potomac River is a man-made inlet known as the Tidal Basin. It was constructed in the late 1800s in order to help drain the waters of the Washington Channel whenever the high tide hits. Aside from that, the beautiful park also serves as a wonderful retreat for those looking for a wonderful and relaxing time away from the hectic schedules of daily life. There are walking paths that take you around the place while you view the calm waters and smell the fresh scent of grass and trees. You can also rent boats if you tire from watching from the benches under cherry blossom trees.

Speaking of cherry trees, they are one of the main reasons why people keep coming back to the place, especially in the months of March and April when they are in full bloom, which is also when the National Cherry Blossom Festival is celebrated.

US National Arboretum

The arboretum is another famous outdoorsy place in Washington to visit. It is wide at over 440 acres, filled with various species of plants, trees, shrubs and so much more. One such collection is the more than 50 varieties of cherry blossom trees which are simply stunning when in bloom. Another famous thing in the arboretum is the bonsai exhibition, with finely trained bonsai trees arranged and displayed to evoke the natural beauty of the object. There are also seasonal exhibitions in the place from various planters, farmers, and plant lovers from the locality, various areas of the country and even foreign nationals and organizations. There are paved nature trails and hiking trails, which takes you on a walk under the shade of towering trees and in a field of blooming flowers.

Rock Creek Park

Another park that offers a great and relaxing escape from the busy city life is Rock Creek Park. The park has various things to offer. There are of course the usual walking trails where you can enjoy walking in the forest like surroundings, with creeks flowing and butterflies fluttering. Aside from these things though there are other attractions in the park like old civil war forts and cemeteries. You can go picnicking and biking and roller-blading in the park, and there are even horses available for those who would like to go for a ride.

Washington is filled with so many great things to see and explore. The natural beauty of the place as enhanced by the gardens and parks are some of the reasons why many people come, visit, and stay in the place.

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Photo by thomwatson on Flickr