Let’s compare the National Arboretum and Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens, both located in Washington D.C., on opposite sides of the Anacostia River, and determine which one is recommended.
Exhibit Contents at the National Arboretum and Kenilworth Park
First, let’s compare the exhibit contents.
The National Arboretum showcases approximately 8,000 species of trees and shrubs collected from both within and outside the United States. It also recreates landscapes from various regions around the world, including Asia and Africa, offering visitors diverse natural experiences.
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On the other hand, Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens primarily focuses on aquatic plants and displays around 14,000 species of plants. It features beautiful landscapes where nature and art blend, with water gardens, fountains, and ponds. Visitors can also observe aquatic life and wild birds, allowing them to feel closer to nature.
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is a natural park located in Was...
Both places revolve around nature and plants, but their exhibit contents differ. If you love trees and gardens, the National Arboretum is recommended, while Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is ideal if you enjoy aquatic plants and water landscapes.
How to Get There
Next, let’s compare access methods.
The National Arboretum is located on the western bank of the Anacostia River, and the nearest metro station is Stadium-Armory, accessible via the Blue or Orange Line. However, it is quite far from the station, requiring additional transportation such as a bus or taxi.
On the other hand, Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is situated on the eastern bank of the Anacostia River, and the closest station, Deanwood, is on the Orange Line. It is relatively close to the station, allowing for easy access on foot.
Is Access Between the Adjacent Natural Parks Possible?
The National Arboretum and Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens are separated by the Anacostia River, and there is no bridge connecting the two parks. Therefore, it is not possible to travel between them directly. It is necessary to familiarize oneself with the characteristics of each park in advance and decide which one to visit.
Safety in the Surrounding Areas
The areas where the National Arboretum and Kenilworth Park are located fall within the Northeast quadrant of Washington D.C., which is known for having relatively low safety levels. It is not recommended for tourists to visit these areas unless they have a compelling reason to do so. Washington D.C. is originally a city built on lush wetlands, with greenery still present throughout the city. If you participate in optional tours, you can encounter vast and breathtaking landscapes in places like Shenandoah National Park, which offer much larger and more impressive views than the parks mentioned here.
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Which Park is Recommended After Comparing the Two?
We have compared the exhibit contents and access methods, but which one is recommended?
For those who love nature and plants, both parks are recommended. However, since the exhibit contents differ, it is advisable to choose based on personal preferences.
Regarding access, Kenilworth Park is more easily accessible as it is closer to the metro station. However, the eastern part of Washington D.C. has relatively low safety levels, so it is not recommended to use public transportation casually. If you must visit, taking a sightseeing taxi is recommended.
