Exploring Water-Loving Plants at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is the only national park dedicated to cultivated water-loving plants. Although it covers just 8.5 acres, this small park is full of amazing sights. It features 45 ponds and a variety of water flowers, all located next to the Anacostia River. The longest trail is only half a mile and is flat, making it accessible for everyone. Don’t let the park’s size fool you; you can easily spend a whole day exploring its beauty.
History of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
The original inhabitants of the area were the Nacotchtank people, who lived along the Anacostia River. By 1921, a water garden was operating commercially at the site of what is now Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. However, dredging of the Anacostia River posed a threat to the gardens. In 1938, Congress allocated $15,000 to purchase the land and establish the park.
Birdwatching at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
The park is dotted with ponds filled with lilies and lotus flowers. Paths surround these ponds, allowing visitors to get a close look at the flowers. A boardwalk with overlooks leads to marshes around the ponds, where you can spot a variety of birds. If you stand or sit quietly for a few minutes, you might see a Great Blue Heron, Field Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, and many other species. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a popular spot for birdwatching in Washington, DC. You can contribute to scientific research by submitting your bird sightings to eBird.org, where you can also view photos and listen to calls of the 240 different bird species recorded by visitors.
Rangers can be found walking the paths and are happy to show you points of interest. Be sure to check the website for scheduled bird walks, painting classes, and volunteer cleanups. The Lotus and Water Lily Festival takes place in mid-July, when the flowers are in full bloom, and features family-friendly activities. The main paths and boardwalk are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it an excellent place for walking. Dogs are welcome on a leash.
Visitors can also explore the Anacostia River Trail, which connects to the park and offers nearly 20 miles of paved trails for walking and biking along the east bank of the Anacostia River. Cyclists and hikers can find the entrance to Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens at Beaverdam Creek. There’s a lovely spot along the Anacostia River where you can sit and watch kayakers, located where the trail from Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens meets the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail.
Quick Look at the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
Address: 1550 Anacostia Ave NE, Washington, DC
Website: nps.gov/keaq
Admission: Free admission and parking
Hours: Open daily 11am-4pm
Notes: Stroller accessible, restrooms available at the Visitor Center, dogs allowed on a leash
