As a vital and vibrant part of the Smithsonian experience, Smithsonian Gardens engages people with plants and gardens, informs on the roles both play in our cultural and natural worlds, and inspires appreciation and stewardship.
Smithsonian Gardens extends the Smithsonian’s museum experience in a public garden setting with over 180 acres of outdoor gardens including 13 public exhibition gardens often called the Smithsonian institution’s “museum without walls.” Staff also produces interior exhibits and horticultural displays around the Smithsonian, develops educational programing, and manages artifact, archival, and living collections.
All the gardens have sustainable programs to attract native wildlife, from insects and local and migrating birds, to mammals. Smithsonian Gardens was accredited by the American Alliance of Museums in 2013, highlighting its role as an integral part of the Smithsonian’s research, display, and educational programs.