Due to sequestration, the National Arboretum will be closed Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays
Within just the last few days, I’ve learned about a couple of closings to keep in mind — both are places among the KFDC compendium for family recreation.
As of this week, the U.S. National Arboretum will be closed to the public every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday as a result of the sequester and budget cuts to the federal Agricultural Research Service, a U.S. Agriculture Department bureau that operates the Arboretum. It was being reported that an entrance fee would also be instituted, but admission will remain free. You can read more about the reduced public visitation hours here.
The National Aquarium in DC, located in the lower level of the Department of Commerce, will close its doors for good on September 30, due to renovations in the building. The collection of more than 1,500 animals will be transitioned to new homes at either National Aquarium in Baltimore or other accredited aquariums. And while I realize that some folks aren’t impressed by the relatively small display of marine life, I consider it a loss. The compact space and simple exhibits are perfect for little aquarium-goers, a great introduction to the underwater world. (Hey, my kids get excited about the lobster tanks in seafood restaurants.) If you haven’t yet been, and your babes are fascinated by fish, go check it out while you can. Hours are Sunday – Thursday 9am – 6pm and Friday – Saturday 9am – 7pm. Admission is $9.95/adults, $4.95/ages 3-11, free for under 3.
The arboretum closing days makes me sad– especially now that the weather is (finally) getting nice.
And I should probably take the kiddos to the aquarium while we still have one…
With twin boys under 2, these may be my two favorite activities with the kids. The DC aquarium is contained and often uncrowded making it feel like their private underwater playground on rainy days. We even purchased a membership because the aquarium is so very convenient. The arboretum is also fairly empty and gave them an opportunity to run wild to their hearts’ content. The koi pond was also quite a thrill. Both changes are a great loss for smaller children in DC…
I agree. At least you can still enjoy the Arboretum Friday – Monday. But it is a shame about the Aquarium – there is nothing else like it in DC, besides a a few fish tanks at the Natural History Museum.