Reston's Best Parks: Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

It's summertime, which means it's time for outdoor fun. But where are the best places to go near Reston for your summer fun needs? We're highlighting the best the area has to offer when it comes to public parks.

For pure natural beauty, you can't do much better than Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, located just outside Reston and around the corner from Wolf Trap.

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens spans 95 acres and boasts a "unique collection of native plants as you enjoy the miles of available walking trails," the website states.

"Take in majestic lake views, explore the Korean Bell Garden and pay a visit to our restored 18th Century log cabin," it adds. "The Atrium contains an indoor tropical garden available to host your next meeting or event. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is also home to the annual Winter Walk of Lights, a spectacular holiday light show featuring dozens of illuminated displays."

The park offers lots of camps and tours for nature enthusiasts, including Camp Grow, which invites children to explore gardening and nature "through hands-on activities, discovery walks, crafts, music, storytelling and animal programs."

Tickets cost $5 for adults and $2.50 for kids under 17 or adults 55 and over. Kids under 6 years old get in free. The park will be open this summer from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. daily.

Image via Nova Parks