Saturday, August 5, 2023

2. Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens is a unique and beautiful natural oasis located in Washington, D.C. This hidden gem is part of the larger Anacostia Park, and it offers a serene and tranquil escape from the bustling city life. The park is managed by the National Park Service and is a designated national park.

The park's main attraction is its stunning aquatic gardens, which feature an array of water lilies and lotus flowers. These gardens were originally established in the late 19th century by Civil War veteran Walter B. Shaw. He created the gardens to cultivate exotic aquatic plants and sell them commercially.

Today, the Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens span over 700 acres and are home to several ponds filled with magnificent water lilies and lotus flowers. The best time to visit and witness the peak bloom of these aquatic plants is during the summer months, typically from late June to early August. The sight of these vibrant flowers covering the ponds in a sea of colors is truly breathtaking.

1. The View of DC

The View of DC, situated in Rosslyn, Virginia, within the CEB Tower, offers a panoramic spectacle of the nation's capital. As the tallest building in the metropolitan area, it provides a vantage point like no other. I invite you to immerse yourself in the beauty of these photos taken from this extraordinary location.

From this viewpoint, you can marvel at the majestic landmarks of Washington, D.C., including the  Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, and the Capitol Dome, Kennedy Center and the picturesque Georgetown Waterfront.

Also from Northern Virginia, you can see the US Marine Corps War Memorial and the Netherlands Carillon. Both of these landmarks. Embrace the breathtaking sights and immerse yourself in the essence of these photos. 


Introduction to This Blog

Each year, I embark on extraordinary journeys spanning thousands of miles, exploring a myriad of destinations within the United States of America and beyond. I seek out and marvel at world wonders, intricate architectures, and ancient treasures, immersing myself in diverse cultures, cuisines, and traditions.

However, amidst these grand adventures, I have come to realize that we often overlook the hidden gems right in our own backyard.

This blog is dedicated to those with an adventurous spirit, who love the great outdoors and appreciate natural and manmade beauties, cherishing life's precious moments. Within these virtual pages, I present to you the marvelous gems I've discovered during my exploration of the Great Washington, DC area (including parts of two states: Virginia and Maryland-DMV), unveiling its hidden treasures and unique attractions. Instead of following mainstream recommendations, I offer you a carefully curated selection of cool and distinctive places to visit. Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery, as we uncover the lesser-known wonders that make this region truly exceptional.

My hope is to inspire you to step out of your daily comfort zone, take a moment to slow down from your busy life, and relish in the beauty of the world around you. Let's stop and smell the roses together.