Explore the Gardens

This grassy expanse is sculpted by the old driveway that approaches the house.

This small greenhouse is one of the oldest structures still standing on the grounds of Dumbarton Oaks.

This grassy terrace, shaded by a tall oak tree, provides a panoramic view of the entire estate.

The wide, shady branches of an enormous beech tree stretch over this quiet enclosed space.

The Urn Terrace serves as an ivied transition between the Beech Terrace, Box Walk, and Rose Garden.

A riotous variety of roses fills this sunny space between the Urn and Fountain Terraces.

A traditional flower garden in a blend of English Cottage and Arts and Crafts style.

A wisteria-covered arbor opens onto a sunny terrace overlooking the lower gardens.

The story of a terrier given to a Neapolitan girl by a French admiral inspired this column.

A shallow pool sits at the bottom of a small brick amphitheater, bordered by a stand of bamboo.

This narrow brick walk wends through a dreamlike woodland spotted with daffodils and hyacinths.

These large flowerbeds explode with color the whole year round.

Apples, cherries, pears, and plums blossom and bear fruit every year in this small orchard.

The plum trees on this walk guide a visitor through the Kitchen Gardens.

This area includes a cutting garden for flowers and a working vegetable garden.

Hidden near the edge of the gardens, Lilac Circle offers a secluded spot for rest and contemplation.

When the trees blossom in springtime, this hillside becomes one of the gardens’ most magical spaces.

This small shelter at the edge of the gardens now houses educational displays.

Blooming forsythia turns this corner of the gardens bright yellow at the beginning of spring.

A double ring of hornbeams encircles a fountain, creating a hypnotic sense of calm.

This gently descending staircase, flanked by boxwood hedges, is the gardens’ central axis.

Elaborate stonework and low flowerbeds play off trellises of wisteria in this stately courtyard.

Farrand planned to feature a variety of similar blooms en masse here.

Elegantly tapering walls project a grand view from the steps of the historic house.

Swirling brickwork surrounds a Japanese maple just outside the museum.

This small room features custom stonework, wrought-iron furniture, and a fountain ornamented with various constellations.

The swimming pool and beautifully decorated loggia attest to Dumbarton Oaks’ history as a private residence.

The brick and limestone ribbon walks simulate the quality of flowing cloth.

“One of the loveliest of the features of Dumbarton Oaks in its freedom from detail.”