A lot of people know that Dumbarton Oaks is beautiful in the spring. But I like to to issue this annual reminder that it’s also quite lovely in the fall:
Dumbarton Oaks is well known for its spring displays of incredible seasonal bounties. But people often overlook how spectacular the acres of gardens are in the fall. Hurry up and catch it now before it’s gone.
But here’s just a taste. The wildflowers of the Herbaceous Border are breathtaking:
The rest of the garden is at that magical moment when the gardeners loosen their grips and the plants give off one more explosion before the winter:
Of course the rest of Dumbarton Oaks is also looking great:
The Georgetown Metropolitan 
Dumbarton Oaks, which I served as a docent for several years, is a jewel. But as a research institute it is inward looking and averse to the outside public. That is reflected in its gardens, which in recent years have shrunk their “free” open period (now down to 3 winter months rather than 4-5 months) and which at other times require pricey tickets by internet in advance. We are glad to have D.O. in the neighborhood because of what otherwise might occupy that terrain, but D.O. is no great friend to the neighborhood. It is simply a more or less innocuous “presence.” Perhaps that is good enough.