American Veterans Disabled for Life National Memorial

The American Veterans Disabled for Life National Memorial is located in the District of Columbia, specifically at 150 Washington Avenue SW. This national memorial commemorates and honors the sacrifices and bravery of disabled American veterans throughout history.

The idea for this memorial was first proposed in 1998 by Jesse Brown, the former Secretary of Veterans Affairs, who himself was disabled due to injuries sustained during the Vietnam War. The memorial was officially dedicated on October 5, 2014, and stands as a symbol of appreciation for the men and women who have served their country and returned with life-changing disabilities.

Visitors to the American Veterans Disabled for Life National Memorial can find solace and inspiration in the memorial's design and symbolism. The focal point of the memorial is a central star-shaped fountain, representing the strength and resilience of disabled veterans. Surrounding the fountain are granite walls etched with quotations and personal stories of disabled veterans, providing a touching and impactful experience for all who visit.

Additionally, the memorial features a reflecting pool, pathways, and sculptures that serve as reminders of the sacrifices made by disabled veterans. The accessible design of the memorial allows everyone to navigate and explore its features.

The memorial's location in the heart of Washington, D.C. offers visitors numerous attractions and activities nearby. Within walking distance, visitors can explore the renowned museums along the National Mall, including the Smithsonian Institution and the National Gallery of Art. The close proximity to iconic landmarks such as the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial also allows visitors to enhance their experience by discovering the rich history and culture of the nation's capital.

Overall, the American Veterans Disabled for Life National Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the selflessness and courage displayed by disabled veterans. Its central location in the District of Columbia provides visitors with the opportunity to learn, reflect, and appreciate the sacrifices made by those who have served their country.

Location

The American Veterans Disabled for Life National Memorial is situated in a serene and picturesque setting in Washington, D.C. Nestled within the heart of the nation's capital, this memorial stands as a poignant tribute to the courage and sacrifice of disabled American veterans. The location offers a solemn yet awe-inspiring atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery and beautifully manicured gardens. The memorial's strategic placement near prominent landmarks like the U.S. Capitol and the National Mall ensures its visibility and accessibility, inviting visitors from all walks of life to reflect upon the remarkable resilience and indomitable spirit of those who have bravely served their country.

Address & Contact

1100 Ohio Drive SW
Washington, DC 20242
Driving Directions
Phone: 202-426-6841
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit American Veterans Disabled for Life National Memorial would be from April to October. During this period, the average maximum temperatures range from 68°F to 90°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average monthly precipitation varies from 3.5 in to 5.0 in, allowing for enjoyable visits without excessive rainfall.

Things to do and learn in American Veterans Disabled for Life National Memorial

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in American Veterans Disabled for Life National Memorial are: Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Arts and Culture Biking Road Biking Boating Fishing Cultural Demonstrations Live Music Golf Mini-Golf

Topics

Learn about these topics at American Veterans Disabled for Life National Memorial: Animals African American Heritage Women's History Climate Change Monuments and Memorials Wars and Conflicts Civil War Social Movements World War II Voting Rights and Suffrage Civil Rights Korean War Vietnam War

Amenities

Visitor Centers

Visitor Center

A bookstore, public restrooms, and an interactive museum are located within the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is open Thursday through Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The visitor center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. For additional information, please contact the Visitor Center at 301-662-3515.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near American Veterans Disabled for Life National Memorial

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near American Veterans Disabled for Life National Memorial

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Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall, an IHG Hotel

Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall, an IHG Hotel is in the heart of Washington, within a 5-minute walk of Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and National Mall. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has facilities measuring 8000 square feet (743 square meters), including conference space. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 550 C St SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

YOTEL Washington DC

With a stay at YOTEL Washington DC in Washington (Capitol Hill), you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Union Station Shopping Center and National Mall. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has facilities measuring 17000 square feet (1579 square meters), including a conference center. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 415 New Jersey Ave Nw, Washington, District of Columbia 20001
Web: Link

Capitol Skyline

A stay at Capitol Skyline places you in the heart of Washington, within a 5-minute drive of United States Capitol and Ford's Theater. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has facilities measuring 7500 square feet (697 square meters), including conference space. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 10 'I' Street SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

Residence Inn Washington, DC /Capitol

Located in Washington (Capitol Hill), Residence Inn Washington, DC /Capitol is within a 5-minute drive of National Mall and Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has facilities measuring 4760 square feet (442 square meters), including a meeting room. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 333 E St Sw, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall

With a stay at Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall, you'll be centrally located in Washington, within a 10-minute walk of National Mall and Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-in. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has facilities measuring 3000 square feet (279 square meters), including a conference center. Limited parking is available onsite.
Address: 400 E Street SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

Weichert Suites at The Newseum

A stay at Weichert Suites at The Newseum places you in the heart of Washington, steps from National Gallery of Art and National Mall. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and an elevator.
Address: 565 Pennslyvannia Ave NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20001
Web: Link

Bluebird Suites in Penn Quarter

With a stay at Bluebird Suites in Penn Quarter in Washington (Downtown Washington D.C.), you'll be within a 5-minute walk of National Gallery of Art and National Mall. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 565 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20001
Web: Link

Bluebird Suites near National Park

Located in Washington (Capitol Hill), Bluebird Suites near National Park is within a 15-minute walk of Nationals Park and Washington Navy Yard. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 28 K Street SE, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20003
Web: Link

citizenM Washington DC Capitol

With a stay at citizenM Washington DC Capitol, you'll be centrally located in Washington, within a 10-minute walk of Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and National Mall. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. This hotel has 7 meeting rooms available for events.
Address: 550 School St SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

WhyHotel Washington DC National Mall

With a stay at WhyHotel Washington DC National Mall in Washington (Capitol Hill), you'll be a 3-minute walk from Museum of the Bible and 7 minutes by foot from National Museum of the American Indian. Featured amenities include luggage storage, laundry facilities, and an elevator. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 600 4th St SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

News and Alerts

Date issued Details
2026-01-27Abraham Lincoln's Birthday to be Observed at the Lincoln Memorial on Feb. 12
The National Park Service and the Lincoln Birthday National Commemorative Committee will observe the 217th anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln during a ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial on Thursday, Feb. 12 at 10:45 a.m. More
2026-01-26National Park Service seeks public comment on plan for future of the Tidal Basin
The National Park Service is accepting public comment on a Development Concept Plan and Environmental Assessment that will guide the long-term management of the Tidal Basin, focusing on transportation, conservation, tree preservation, protection of natural and cultural resources, visitor experience, recreation, infrastructure, security, and more. More
2026-01-20Temporary Closures While World War II Memorial Updates Lighting, Fountains
The World War II Memorial is undergoing a modernization of its fountains and lighting to address aging infrastructure, improve reliability, and enhance the appearance of the memorial. Visitors may find temporary closures of parts of the memorial during their visit. For your safety and the safety of the contractors, please respect any area closures you encounter. We apologize for any inconvenience. More
2026-01-16National Park Service Announces Opportunity for Communications Infrastructure Plan on the National Mall and Surrounding Park Areas
The National Park Service invites qualified entities to submit a proposal to develop communications infrastructure within the National Mall and surrounding park areas in Washington, D.C. Proposals must be submitted by Thursday, Feb. 16, 2026.  More
2026-01-08National Park Service Announces Closure, Construction at the World War II Memorial
The National Park Service announced today the World War II Memorial will close on January 9 ahead of a construction project to modernize fountains and lighting at the memorial. The work will address aging infrastructure, improve reliability, and enhance the appearance of one of the nation’s most visited memorials. More
2026-01-05National Park Service Awards New Contract for Food and Retail Services on the National Mall
The National Park Service has awarded a new contract to operate food, beverage, and retail kiosks on the National Mall to Taste of History LLC. The agreement will take effect on May 1, 2026, and will run for ten years. More