Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens

A National Park Service urban park in Northeast Washington, D.C., preserving historic cultivated ponds and adjacent wetlands known for waterlilies and lotus. The site is one of the National Park units focused on aquatic plant collections and tidal marsh habitat.

Ponds planted with waterlilies and lotus connected by wooden boardwalks and short trails, plus marsh and riparian habitat that attract waterfowl and wading birds. Seasonal floral displays draw photographers and nature walkers, and there are picnic and walking areas in the adjoining parkland.

The ponds originated as private cultivated aquatic gardens in the early 20th century and were later incorporated into the National Park Service’s system of parks in the Washington area. Management since has emphasized preservation of the aquatic plant collections and restoration of adjacent marsh.

Situated on the east bank of the Anacostia River in Northeast Washington, D.C., adjacent to the Kenilworth neighborhood and a few miles northeast of the central Capitol area.

• Best time to visit: Peak lotus blooms occur in mid to late summer, making July and August the most popular months for floral displays.
• Viewing: Boardwalks and low-elevation viewing platforms provide close, accessible views of ponds and marsh habitat for photography and birdwatching.

What to See #

• Aquatic Gardens: A series of cultivated ponds planted with waterlilies and lotus, connected by boardwalks and marsh trails that provide close views of the plants and seasonal blooms.
• Kenilworth Park: Parkland and riverfront trails along the Anacostia River that include lawns, wooded areas and access points for birdwatching and walking.