Kids will love this year’s Season’s Greenings display at the United States Botanical Garden. Not only does it have trains, but the theme is dinosaurs.
Like in previous years, the dinosaurs are constructed from natural materials like leaves, pinecones, and nuts. The sign next to each sculpture tells you what it’s made of, which can inspire kids to try their hand at something similar when they get home.
Two of the statue highlights include a massive T. rex and an Argentinosaurus head. They’re great photo ops for future paleontologists. There’s also a miniature landscape diorama containing the Maryland state dinosaur- the Astrodon.
Whizzing through the dinosaurs and Cretaceous period plants are five different trains with dinosaur-related cargo. One has fossils, while another pulls boxcars packed with Campbell’s dinosaur soup.
Once you’re done admiring the outdoor display, head inside to visit the Primeval Garden, where you can learn more about the plants that existed at the same time as dinosaurs. You can also hunt down the twenty-one DC landmarks made from natural materials scattered throughout the building.
And don’t forget to get a family Christmas photo while you’re here! Your options include:
- The poinsettia displays in the Tropics
- The naturally decorated Christmas trees near the outdoor train display
- In front of the Capitol, which is right across the street
Season’s Greenings is on display in the Outdoor Garden through January 4th (closed on Christmas Day). It is weather-dependent, so plan accordingly.
The Botanical Gardens is open late on select Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the month of December. On these nights, you can come enjoy live music and purchase refreshments until 8 pm.
For the full exhibit details and hours, check the Botanical Garden’s website.
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