The Best Memorials and Monuments in Washington DC

‍

Washington, D.C., is famous for its awe-inspiring collection of memorials and monuments, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and travelers alike. While the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial are undoubtedly iconic, the National Mall is home to many other remarkable sites within a short walk of each other. Whether you're planning your first trip or returning for another visit, this guide will help you prioritize which landmarks to explore and why they’re worth your time.

‍

If this is your first time reading our travel blog, here’s our introduction. We connect local Experience Designers to visitors to share insider tips and save time planning things to do. We know time is short and we want visitors to enjoy their time doing things they love with the people they love. Space with the team is limited. Reserve time early.

‍

‍

{{ad-three}}

‍

‍

Ok … On to the list

‍

11 Must-See Memorials and Monuments in D.C.

‍

‍

Washington Monument

Standing at 555 feet, the Washington Monument was completed in 1884 as a tribute to the nation’s first President and was the tallest structure in the world at the time. Visitors can ride a glass elevator to the top observation deck for sweeping views of the National Mall. The monument is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5pm, with rangers available for questions until 10 p.m., while its exterior can be enjoyed around the clock.

‍

‍

Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial, designed by Henry Bacon and completed in 1922, features a neoclassical design inspired by Greek temples. Inside, visitors can see Daniel Chester French’s 19-foot statue of Abraham Lincoln and read his iconic Gettysburg and Second Inaugural Addresses etched into the walls. The 38 Doric columns surrounding the memorial represent the states in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death, blending history, art, and architecture.

‍

‍

Jefferson Memorial

Inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, the Jefferson Memorial honors the third U.S. President and author of the Declaration of Independence. Inside, a 19-foot bronze statue of Jefferson stands amid walls inscribed with his most influential writings. Located on the Tidal Basin and surrounded by DC’s famous cherry blossoms, the memorial becomes a must-see during the spring bloom. It is open 24/7, with rangers on-site daily from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

‍

‍

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

The 30-foot granite statue of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stands proudly at the Tidal Basin, symbolizing his enduring fight for civil rights. Carved from stone as if emerging from a "mountain of despair," it evokes his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. The memorial, dedicated in 2011, is not only a tribute to King’s legacy but also to the ongoing movement for justice. Located on the Tidal Basin, the memorial offers powerful symbolism and is surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring, with the Korean War and World War II Memorials nearby.

‍

‍

{{ad-one}}

‍

‍

World War II Memorial

Located at the eastern end of the Reflecting Pool, the World War II Memorial is dedicated to the 16 million Americans who served in the war. Opened in 2004, the memorial features 56 granite pillars representing each U.S. state and territory, along with a striking wall of over 4,000 gold stars, each symbolizing 100 American lives lost. At night, the lit-up design offers a particularly ethereal experience, so it's recommended to visit later in the day for optimal viewing.

‍

‍

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, dedicated in 1982, honors the 58,000 servicemen who died or went missing during the war. Designed by Maya Lin, its black granite wall is engraved with names in chronological order of death. Many visitors find the memorial deeply moving, often seeking out specific names. It’s recommended to visit during the day for better visibility and to use the available name books to help locate individuals.

‍

‍

Arlington National Cemetery

Across the Potomac in Virginia, Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for over 400,000 military personnel and their families. Key sites include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Memorial Amphitheater, and the gravesites of John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who are buried side by side. A helpful app from the cemetery makes it easy for visitors to find specific graves, ensuring a meaningful experience for those honoring loved ones.

‍

‍

{{ad-two}}

‍

‍

Korean War Veterans Memorial

Dedicated in 1995, the Korean War Veterans Memorial honors those who served in the war with 19 stainless steel statues of soldiers, a 164-foot granite wall reflecting their image, and a tranquil Pool of Remembrance. The memorial is particularly moving at night when the statues are lit individually, creating an intimate and powerful ambiance for the memorial.

‍

‍

DC War Memorial

The DC War Memorial, located in Pershing Park near the National Mall, honors the 499 residents of Washington, D.C., who lost their lives in World War I. Completed in 1931, this small yet significant monument features a circular Doric structure made of Vermont marble, with 12 fluted columns supporting a domed roof. Visitors can see the names of the fallen inscribed around the platform, listed alphabetically without distinction of rank, gender, or race, making it a somber reminder of local sacrifice.

‍

‍

FDR Memorial

Spanning 7.5 acres on the western shore of the Tidal Basin, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial honors the 32nd president of the United States. The memorial is divided into four sections, each reflecting a different term of Roosevelt’s presidency, and includes iconic sculptures such as Roosevelt seated with his dog Fala and Eleanor Roosevelt, the only first lady featured in a presidential memorial. Visitors can reflect on pivotal moments in history, including the famous “fear itself” quote, while experiencing the memorial’s tribute to FDR’s leadership during the Great Depression and World War II.

‍

‍

U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial  (IWO Jima Memorial)

The U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, dedicated in 1954, immortalizes the iconic image of six Marines raising the American flag on Iwo Jima during World War II. This larger-than-life bronze statue, designed by Felix W. de Weldon, commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of Marines in all wars. The base of the memorial is engraved with the names of key battles, and the American flag flies 24 hours a day as a tribute to the fallen.

‍

‍

{{ad-three}}

‍

[INSERT CTA]

Our team of local Experience Designers has collaborated with travelers from around the world to help them discover hidden gems and plan the best attractions. We’ve built a wide range of plans for family trips, anniversaries, birthdays, and other special occasions, even for solo travelers. Each plan is built with a 3-step process: 

Step 1: Bucket your must-see attractions 

Step 2: Add in restaurants, rooftops & other hidden gems 

Step 3: Create a custom map and provide transportation tips, so you know the best way to navigate the city. 

Click here to have our team tailor your New York trip itinerary today or check out a few of our sample plans here.

‍