My first visit to the National Arboretum brought fascination and wonder. I've lived about 20 minutes from the Arboretum for 4 years and about 45 minutes from it for 21 years and have never stepped foot in this amazing space of land. My friend took me for my birthday and I found that I was astonished to find this space of peace and tranquility in the middle of the city. The National Capitol Columns provide a connection to the city through this vast cultural landscape.