The Jardín Botánico Nacional Dr. Rafael Ma. Moscoso is one of the largest botanical gardens in the Caribbean, covering over 200 hectares of forest, gardens, and specialized plant collections on the northwestern edge of Santo Domingo. It is a genuine green escape from the city and worth at least a half day.
The garden's highlights include a Japanese Garden with a traditional bridge and tea pavilion, an enormous aquatic plant section with giant Victoria water lilies, a palm grove containing over 300 species, and the orchid house with its remarkable collection of Dominican endemic orchids. A tram circuit covers the main garden areas for those who would rather ride than walk. The garden is open daily from 9am to 6pm, and entry is inexpensive.