U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington

If you are near the US Capitol building, you may be able to see the cool glass dome of a lesser-known attraction, the US Botanic Garden. I had to walk (dragging my husband) toward it to find out what the building was. We waited in a reasonably short line to be searched by security (in case you are plotting to kill some plants, I guess... You would think they would search you for smuggled cacti on the way out). It was nice and cool inside for a hot day because of the water misters and fans for the plants, except for the a couple of intentionally hot rooms. There are very interesting exhibits and pretty flowers and plants everywhere. If you have time, I definitely recommend visiting the US Botanic Garden for a chance to see some plant life that you wouldn't otherwise have the chance to see, and it's FREE!