About this Event
At the peak of autumn color, stroll through beautiful trees, historic monuments, and more than two centuries of American history. The half-mile guided walk will be co-led by Liam Ulasevich, arborist and Casey Trees Director of Tree Operations, and Sharon Metcalf, Historic Congressional Cemetery’s Arboretum Partnership Coordinator.
Along the way you’ll discover:
- 25 distinct tree species, including old-growth witness trees and more than 20 years of Casey Trees plantings
- Picturesque tree-canopied paths featuring Chinese elms, American hornbeams, and a variety of cherry trees
- Notable memorials and the fascinating stories behind them
- The cemetery’s newly designated ArbNet Accredited Arboretum
- And, the Circle of Life—a distinctive “tree-henge” of eight linden trees aligned with a compass centerpiece to create a living seasonal sundial
Casey Trees has planted more than 600 trees throughout Congressional Cemetery’s 35-acre grounds. The two organizations have collaborated in recent years to co-host tree-focused educational programs and arboretum tours supported by Garden Club of America, Capitol Hill Community Foundation and Nature Sacred.
Historic Congressional Cemetery, established in 1807, serves as the final resting place of senators, congresspersons, Native American diplomats, and notable Americans including John Philip Sousa, Mathew Brady, J. Edgar Hoover, Cokie Roberts—as well as members of the public. Today, the active cemetery is also known for its vibrant community programming, including 5K races, Soul Strolls, Cinematery Movie Nights, the Tombs & Tomes Book Club, and speaker series. The grounds are open to visitors from dawn to dusk throughout the year.
Getting There
Congressional Cemetery is located at 1801 E St SE DC, approximately one mile southeast of the U.S. Capitol Building.
- Metro: The Potomac Ave Metro Station (Orange and Blue lines) is a 5-minute walk away.
- Free parking is available on E St SE between 18th and 19th Streets SE, just outside the cemetery gate.
Registration Required: Space is limited—please register in advance.
Support Our Tree Canopy & Historic Landscape
Donate to Casey Trees to restore, enhance, and protect DC's tree canopy! Casey Trees relies on the support of friends, neighbors, and volunteers like you to make our work possible.
You can also help preserve Congressional Cemetery’s historic landscape by sponsoring a tree in honor or in memory of someone special.
Questions? Contact [email protected].
Event venue & nearby stays
Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E Street Southeast, Washington, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.