Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens - Wide-angle shot of the iconic Catur Muka statue and fountain, located at the 0 kilometer point in Denpasar City, Bali. A cultural and historical symbol of the Balinese capital.
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Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens

4.9
·201 reviews·Washington, United States

A serene 2-acre garden featuring a dramatic cast-iron fountain and diverse plant displays, offering a peaceful escape with Capitol views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Flowers in bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens - Wide-angle shot of the iconic Catur Muka statue and fountain, located at the 0 kilometer point in Denpasar City, Bali. A cultural and historical symbol of the Balinese capital.

Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens

Best Time

Spring mornings

Flowers in bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 2-acre garden featuring a dramatic cast-iron fountain and diverse plant displays, offering a peaceful escape with Capitol views.

4.9
(201 reviews)

"A perfect spot for relaxation, with stunning displays and a tranquil atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture stunning shots with the Capitol as a backdrop! Early mornings are best for fewer people.

🐶 Leashed Pets Welcome

Bring your furry friends along for a stroll; dogs on leashes are permitted in the gardens.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bartholdi Fountain

Bartholdi Fountain

Center of the Gardens

A dramatic, 30-ton cast-iron fountain, a stunning centerpiece offering a cool breeze and soothing sounds.

Kitchen Garden

Kitchen Garden

Section of the Gardens

An engaging area where kids (and adults!) can identify various vegetables and learn about gardening.

Capitol View

Capitol View

Overlooking the Gardens

Enjoy a picturesque backdrop of the U.S. Capitol building, perfect for memorable photos.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Serenity

While the Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens offer a peaceful escape, visiting during peak hours can mean sharing the tranquility. Consider an early morning or late afternoon visit to truly soak in the atmosphere and capture stunning photos without the hustle.

Combine with the Botanic Garden

This garden is an excellent outdoor extension of the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory. Plan to visit both attractions together to maximize your experience and enjoy a diverse range of plant life and water features.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Flowers in bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, peaceful
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Cooler temperatures, ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Here’s a secret spot for all the best views and photos of the Trevi Fountain in Rome! 🏛️⛲️ For more travel tips, upgrades, discounts, & more - make sure to follow me and fill out the link in my bio #traveltips #travelguide #trevifountain #rometravel #italy
@jetsetsoph_
141.6K likes • 1.9M views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture stunning shots with the Capitol as a backdrop! Early mornings are best for fewer people. Instagram+1

🐶 Leashed Pets Welcome

Bring your furry friends along for a stroll; dogs on leashes are permitted in the gardens. Reddit

Did you know there’s a secret fountain beside the Trevi Fountain in Rome? 😮🇮🇹 #guidedtour #rome #tips #travel #traveltips #italy
@livtours
58.2K likes • 779.5K views
Enjoy this moment of a peaceful morning with spring flowers and the sounds of water falling from the historic 1876 Fountain of Light and Water in our Bartholdi Gardens.
usbotanicgarden
441 likes • 6K views

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Enjoy a relaxing break with tables and chairs available. Pack a lunch and savor the garden's beauty. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Connect to Botanic Garden

Easily accessible from the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory, making it a perfect combined visit. InstagramReddit

There are things we just can’t control and I hope you find the time for your summer self-care🫶✨ 📍 Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens Washington DC A hidden gem just across Independence Avenue from the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory. . . 🏕 Follow @starrygirl along for big or microadventure content (hiking, outdoors, parks) this Summer🏕 . #selfcaresaturday #selfcaresaturdays #selfcareishealthcare ...
starrygirl
27 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture stunning shots with the Capitol as a backdrop! Early mornings are best for fewer people. Instagram+1

🐶 Leashed Pets Welcome

Bring your furry friends along for a stroll; dogs on leashes are permitted in the gardens. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Enjoy a relaxing break with tables and chairs available. Pack a lunch and savor the garden's beauty. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Connect to Botanic Garden

Easily accessible from the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory, making it a perfect combined visit. InstagramReddit

🌬️ Refreshing Escape

The fountain's spray creates a cooling mist, offering a welcome respite from city heat. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.9
(201 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens as a beautiful and peaceful oasis, especially appreciating the stunning fountain and well-maintained gardens. It's noted as a perfect spot for relaxation, picnics, and photography, offering a scenic view of the Capitol. Some wish the space was larger, but overall, it's considered a delightful and worthwhile visit, particularly when combined with the nearby U.S. Botanic Garden.

"I loved the fountain! The design was beautiful and peaceful.
The stunning displays and tranquil atmosphere made for a perfect day out. Loved the different flowers and plants in the garden. We enjoyed exploring the gardens and conservatory which is right next to the fountain garden area.
Can't wait to come back and take more photos again.

Perfect spot for relaxation. They have tables and chair too, you can bring food and enjoy the beauty of the garden nature at the same time."

JJ CBMD

"Outdoor and across the street extension of the U.S. Botanical Gardens. Has a kitchen garden (great for the kids to identify their veggies), the Bartholdi Fountain with a great scenic background of the greenhouses and Congress, lots of room to run around, and a lot of seating and shade. Not as crowded as the Botanical Gardens themselves and is a nice place for a short rest after a long day of walking."

Rino Guerrero

"Small outdoor area of botanical garden across the street from conservatory building whose focal point is Bartholdi Fountain. Cast in France, 30 tons fountain was purchased by US Congress in 1877 on advice of famous architect Frederick Law Olmsted and moved to current location in 1932. I wish the space was way bigger in size, otherwise very pretty and well-cared garden."

Mike Z

What People Like

Beautiful fountain design
Tranquil atmosphere
Scenic Capitol views

What People Dislike

Space could be larger

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens are located across Independence Avenue from the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory. You can reach it via various public transportation options in Washington D.C., including the Metro. The nearest Metro stations are Capitol South and Federal Center SW. Instagram

Street parking can be challenging in this area. It's recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services. If driving, be prepared to search for metered parking or use nearby garages. Reddit

Yes, if you are visiting other National Mall attractions or the U.S. Capitol, it's a pleasant walk. The gardens are centrally located and easily accessible on foot. Instagram

Many visitors find that combining a visit with the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory is ideal. They are directly across the street from each other, making it easy to explore both on foot. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory is right next door, and you're also a short walk from the U.S. Capitol Building and the National Mall. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens is free. It's an open public space designed for everyone to enjoy. Reddit

The gardens are generally open daily from dawn until dusk, similar to many public parks. However, it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or special event closures. Instagram

There is no admission fee. The Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens are a public space, and access is free for all visitors. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! It's a popular spot for photographers. However, be mindful of any specific event policies if you're planning a professional shoot. InstagramReddit

As a public garden, general rules of conduct apply. Please respect the plants and fountains, and ensure pets are leashed. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the magnificent Bartholdi Fountain. The gardens also feature a kitchen garden, diverse plant displays, and offer scenic views of the U.S. Capitol. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a great spot for families. Kids can enjoy the kitchen garden, the open space to run around, and the soothing sounds of the fountain. Reddit

Absolutely! The gardens provide tables and chairs, making it a perfect spot for a picnic. Enjoying food amidst the beautiful scenery is a popular activity. Reddit

Restroom facilities are typically available within the adjacent U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory. It's advisable to use those facilities before or after your visit to the outdoor gardens. Reddit

Take your time to wander through the different sections, enjoy the fountain's ambiance, and find a bench to relax. It's a perfect place for a short break from sightseeing. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the fountain and gardens. Late afternoons provide a warm, golden hour glow. Instagram+1

While casual photography is welcome, professional or commercial photography may require permits. It's best to check with the U.S. Botanic Garden for specific guidelines if you plan a formal photoshoot. Reddit

The Bartholdi Fountain itself is a prime subject. Also, look for angles that include the U.S. Capitol in the background for a classic D.C. shot. Instagram+1

Drone usage is generally restricted in and around federal buildings and parks in Washington D.C. It's highly unlikely to be permitted here. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the fountain and wider garden shots. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the Capitol backdrop. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens are a fantastic, free outing for families. The kitchen garden is a highlight, allowing kids to discover different vegetables in a fun, hands-on way. Reddit The open space around the fountain provides room for children to move and play, and the soothing sound of the water can be quite captivating. Reddit It's also a great spot for a picnic, with tables and chairs available, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed meal outdoors. Reddit

Combine your visit with the adjacent U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory for an even richer experience. The conservatory offers a world of plants to explore, and the outdoor gardens provide a perfect place for kids to burn off energy before or after. Remember to bring a leash for any pets, as they are welcome in the gardens. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, the Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens offer a wealth of opportunities. The Bartholdi Fountain itself is a magnificent subject, especially during the golden hour in the late afternoon when the light is warm and soft. Instagram The fountain's intricate details and the play of water create dynamic shots. Instagram

Don't miss the chance to frame your shots with the U.S. Capitol building in the background. This iconic landmark provides a classic Washington D.C. vista that pairs beautifully with the fountain and gardens. Instagram Early mornings are ideal for capturing these scenes with minimal crowds, allowing for more creative freedom. While casual photography is encouraged, be aware that professional or commercial shoots might require permits, so it's wise to check in advance. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Relaxation Seekers

If you're looking for a peaceful retreat in the city, the Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens are an excellent choice. The soothing sounds of the fountain create a tranquil ambiance that helps melt away stress. Instagram Find a bench, sit back, and enjoy the gentle breeze and the beauty of the surrounding flora. Instagram

This spot is perfect for a quiet moment of reflection or a leisurely break during a busy day of sightseeing. You can even pack a light lunch or a snack to enjoy at one of the available tables, making it a truly relaxing experience. Reddit It's less crowded than the main Botanic Garden Conservatory, offering a more intimate connection with nature and art. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of the Bartholdi Fountain

The magnificent Bartholdi Fountain, a 30-ton cast-iron marvel, has a fascinating history. It was originally designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, and was first displayed at the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia in 1876. Reddit After the exposition, it was purchased by the U.S. Congress in 1877, with the advice of famed architect Frederick Law Olmsted, and eventually found its permanent home in Washington D.C. in 1932. Reddit Its relocation and installation in the gardens across from the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory have made it a beloved landmark.

The fountain's design is intricate and grand, featuring allegorical figures and ornate details that reflect 19th-century artistry. Its presence adds a significant historical and aesthetic dimension to the gardens. The soothing sounds of the water cascading from its multiple tiers create a tranquil atmosphere, offering a welcome respite from the urban environment. Instagram+1

Many visitors are drawn to the fountain not only for its beauty but also for its connection to Bartholdi's other iconic work. It stands as a testament to artistic innovation and the enduring appeal of public art. The fountain's impressive scale and detailed craftsmanship continue to captivate visitors, making it a focal point of the gardens. Reddit

Exploring the Gardens and Their Features

The Bartholdi Gardens are more than just a setting for the fountain; they are a thoughtfully curated green space designed to complement the surrounding architecture and offer a diverse botanical experience. The gardens feature a variety of unique plants and flowers, with seasonal displays that keep the landscape vibrant throughout the year. Instagram Visitors often praise the well-maintained flower beds and the variety of species on display. Reddit

A particularly engaging feature for families is the kitchen garden. This section allows visitors, especially children, to identify various vegetables and learn about their growth. It adds an educational and interactive element to the garden visit. Reddit The layout of the gardens also provides ample seating areas, with tables and chairs strategically placed, inviting visitors to relax, picnic, or simply enjoy the serene environment. Reddit

Beyond the immediate plantings, the gardens offer strategic vantage points. The view of the U.S. Capitol building from the gardens is quite striking, providing a picturesque backdrop for photos and a sense of place within the heart of Washington D.C. Instagram The combination of the fountain's soothing presence, the diverse flora, and the iconic cityscape makes the Bartholdi Gardens a multifaceted and enjoyable destination. Instagram

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