A thriving aquatic garden that inspires!

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens invites you to explore the only national park site devoted to cultivated water-loving plants. Located in Washington, DC, this unique habitat features over 45 ponds filled with a variety of water lilies and lotus, an elevated boardwalk through the surrounding tidal marshes, and access to the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. It is a place to experience and connect with nature and celebrate the best of every season. 

Nestled on the Eastern bank of the Anacostia River, Kenilworth has a rich and varied natural and cultural history. From the Nacotchtank Indians to Colonial settlers to contemporary African American communities, the area around Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens has been home to people for more than 4,000 years. 

Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens was founded to connect people to the park through stewardship, engagement, and education in cooperation with the National Park Service. Join us to explore, celebrate, and support this park.

Land Acknowledgment

Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens respectfully acknowledges the rich culture and contributions of all indigenous communities— past, present and future. Click here to watch Hope Butler, an enrolled member of the Piscataway Conoy, provide a land acknowledgment that formally recognizes the historical and continuing connection between the waters, animals and indigenous peoples – the original stewards of these lands.