The lotuses are in peak bloom at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. With over 45 ponds and hundreds of thousands of lilies, it’s well worth a trip to the far edges of the D.C. diamond.
Kenilworth is one of the few wetland areas along the Anacostia River that was not drained. Instead, it was kept intact for aquatic plants. There are several varieties of lilies and lotus blooming in the garden this time of year, including:
- Sacred Lotus: The most popular species because of its recognizable bright pink flower and yellow center.
- Tropical Lilies: These bloom throughout July and August. They have pointed flowers and lay close to the water.
- Victoria Water Lily: My personal favorite, this lily has enormous plate-shaped leaves that sit on the water like stepping stones.
Besides the blooms, don’t miss the marsh boardwalk at the far back corner of the park. The natural wetland is home to over 250 species of birds, along with beavers, turtles, and river otters, so keep your eyes peeled.
Entrance to the tidal marsh boardwalk. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
Some tips before you go:
☀️ Avoid mid-day. The best time to view the lotuses is early in the morning before the heat makes their blooms close. It is also less crowded and sweaty.
🥾 Don’t wear your best shoes. At the end of the day, it’s a marsh, and mud is hard to avoid, especially when you're enthralled with the blooms.
⏰ Leave time to meander. I recommend allocating about two hours to see everything and take pictures. The garden is open from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily.
The annual Lotus and Water Lily Festival runs from July 15 - July 22 with performances, classes, and programming, so get out there now!
