REWIND: Windows to Wonderland (DC, 2008)

For this Christmas Day here's a look back at 'Windows to Wonderland' at the United States Botanic Garden Conservatory during a visit to Washington, DC in December 2008. Every year the conservatory presents an annual holiday display with a different theme.

The display is one of those things that brings the feeling of wonder that makes you feel like a kid again. The Wonderland is different hamlets including a Santa's village, mountain castle, caterpillar garden and gremlin garden all connected by trains. The multiple trains run overhead and through tunnels.

In the Conservatory's Garden Court, a holiday tree and a replica of the National Mall greet visitors amidst blooming poinsettias. These unique replicas and the Wonderland villages are constructed of natural plant materials. But beware of the crowds. There are workers managing the visitors to be sure they keep moving.

The United States Botanic Garden Conservatory is open to the public, free of charge, every day of the year from 10am-5pm (open for special hours during the holidays). The conservatory is located along the National Mall near the west side of the U.S. Capitol building. More info at www.usbg.gov.