River Farm is open year-round Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. From April through September, it is also open on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. River Farm is closed on national holidays. We follow the federal OPM (Office of Personnel Management) status for closing during exteme weather.

Admission is free (except for special events), but donations are appreciated to help support the stewardship of River Farm.

The AHS Garden Shop is lovingly staffed by volunteers. Open year-round most Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11 am to 2 pm, and most Saturdays from 10 am to 1 pm April through September.

Organized group activities such as birthday parties or classes require a reservation.  Additionally, a small fee will apply.  Guided tours of the River Farm gardens also require a reservation.

Driving Directions

Arriving by bicycle? See below for cycling directions.

An easy way to reach River Farm is by car, since public transportation stations are not close by.

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From Old Town Alexandria

Take Washington Street south through the city of Alexandria. Washington Street becomes the George Washington Memorial Parkway at the south end of Alexandria. Go 3.5 miles, pass under the stone bridge and take the next left, following the signs for East Boulevard Drive, Herbert Springs, and Arcturus. Take another immediate left on East Boulevard Drive and the American Horticultural Society will be to your right.

From the Beltway (either direction)

Exit onto Route 1 North, then take the first right onto Franklin Street. Turn right on South Washington Street, which becomes the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Follow directions above.

From the south on Mount Vernon Highway

After passing Mount Vernon’s circle on the Mount Vernon Highway (235), continue traveling north on the George Washington Memorial Parkway until you see the sign for East Boulevard Drive. Turn right at the second sign for East Boulevard Drive. Take an immediate left onto East Boulevard Drive. The American Horticultural Society will be to your right.

Bike Directions to River Farm on the Mount Vernon Trail

Convenient biking trails offer another option. River Farm is near the paved Mount Vernon Trail, between Alexandria Avenue and Wellington Road. We have free bike racks in our parking lot.

River Farm and the American Horticultural Society participate in Bike to Work Days, offering discounted memberships on those days, and a year-round welcome to cyclists.