The United States National Arboretum is often overlooked, but with 446 acres and 9.5 miles of roadways, it’s definitely worth a visit. As October begins, the Arboretum is awash in fall foliage, as well as showy displays of chrysanthemums, hibiscus, and camellias.

October is also orchid madness, with the 63rd Orchid Show and Sale, “Orchids in the Capital.” Spanning three days (October 9-11), the show gathers orchid lovers to gawk, buy, sell, and discuss. And if you can, try to get a spot at the Arboretum’s popular monthly Full Moon Hikes—four miles of hiking through the moonlit gardens.

The preceding post is part of the DCist Fall Guide, sponsored by Lexus.