River Farm

River Farm is a botanical garden stretching along the Potomac River in Alexandria with formal gardens, forested areas, and open meadows. The grounds include designated children's sections, walking paths, and a visitor center with information about the plants and landscapes throughout the property.

The property once belonged to George Washington's original estate during the 1700s. Later it became the headquarters of the American Horticultural Society, transforming into the educational and conservation center it is today.

The site functions as a learning hub where visitors discover native plants and sustainable gardening practices through hands-on demonstrations. Seasonal workshops here reflect the growing interest in ecological landscaping and conservation methods among local gardeners.

The garden is open Tuesday through Saturday and offers guided tours as well as plant sales throughout the year. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection or rain gear depending on the season, as paths wind through different garden sections.

The grounds feature specialized plantings of native species selected specifically to support local pollinators like bees and butterflies throughout the seasons. This careful selection helps maintain the natural ecosystem that surrounds the Potomac River valley.