Opened in 1992, the Meadowlark Visitor Center is a significant architectural landmark in Northern Virginia. Recent donations funded several aquaria exhibits and an interactive exhibit space focusing on plant diversity. A new donation funded a garden map, published in 2001, which provides visitors with a detailed route planner. Several interactive PC based exhibits feature rotating topics on various garden collections. An exhibit on Woodland Indian ethnobotany is due for completion by 2003. The Visitor Center houses a gift shop, restrooms, administrative offices and a library. A large central fireplace is a favorite spot in which to relax and socialize during the winter months.

The Visitor Center can be rented for events taking place outside of regular Garden hours. This beautiful building is perfect for the smaller events hosting 20 to 60 people. Typical uses would be breakfast meetings, receptions, and holiday parties. A vaulted ceiling, exhibits on the Garden's history & collections and a centrally located fire place make the Visitor Center one of the most unique venues in the Washington area. Contact Keith Tomlinson or Danielle Beres for booking information 703-255-3631.

Meadowlark Gardens does not permit picnicking beyond the Visitor Center. However, as you enter the grounds from Beulah Road, to your left just beyond the parking lot, there is a charming picnic site complete with tables, trellisses, and birdsong.