George Mason National Memorial

George Mason National Memorial is located in the District of Columbia, specifically in West Potomac Park. It is dedicated to the life and legacy of George Mason, an influential Founding Father who played a crucial role in shaping American democracy.

George Mason was a Virginia planter and politician who is best known for his authorship of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, which served as a blueprint for the United States Bill of Rights. He also strongly advocated for individual liberties and was one of the staunchest opponents of a powerful central government during the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.

The memorial consists of a Neoclassical-style, open-air structure featuring a statue of George Mason, created by sculptor Wendy M. Ross. The statue depicts Mason holding the Virginia Declaration of Rights in one hand and a pen in the other, signifying his contributions to American democracy.

Visitors to the memorial can learn about George Mason's life and achievements through informative plaques and exhibits. The memorial offers a serene atmosphere, providing a place for quiet reflection and contemplation. It is an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and those interested in the founding principles of the United States.

Nearby attractions include the Tidal Basin, which is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms during the spring season. This iconic location offers picturesque views and is perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic. Additionally, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial are within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore more historical and architectural landmarks in the area.

Overall, the George Mason National Memorial serves as a tribute to a key figure in American history, providing visitors with a chance to learn about the significant contributions George Mason made towards the establishment of the United States and the protection of individual rights and liberties.

Location

The George Mason National Memorial is situated in the southeastern region of the state of Virginia, United States. This remarkable memorial dedicated to George Mason, a prominent American statesman and the father of the Bill of Rights, is located on the picturesque banks of the Potomac River. Positioned adjacent to the iconic Jefferson Memorial and within close proximity to the National Mall, the memorial offers breathtaking views of the river and the bustling cityscape of Washington, D.C. Its geographical location seamlessly links history with modernity, allowing visitors to admire the natural beauty of the area while contemplating the significant contributions made by this influential figure in shaping the nation's democratic principles.

Address & Contact

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

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit George Mason National Memorial would be in the months of May, June, or September, as these months have the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average maximum temperature ranges from 76°F to 85°F during these months, and the average monthly precipitation ranges from 3.5 inches to 5 inches. These conditions provide a comfortable environment for exploring the memorial and enjoying outdoor activities.

Things to do and learn in George Mason National Memorial

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in George Mason 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 George Mason 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 George Mason National Memorial

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

Hotels within or near George Mason National Memorial

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Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf

With a stay at Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf, you'll be centrally located in Washington, steps from International Spy Museum and within a 10-minute walk of The Anthem. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-in. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has facilities measuring 23000 square feet (2137 square meters), including conference space.
Address: 480 L'Enfant Plaza, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

Mandarin Oriental, Washington D.C.

With a stay at Mandarin Oriental, Washington D.C., you'll be centrally located in Washington, a 6-minute walk from National Mall and 11 minutes by foot from Jefferson Memorial. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, limo/town car service, and express check-in. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has facilities measuring 36000 square feet (3344 square meters), including conference space. A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge (available 24 hours).
Address: 1330 Maryland Ave, SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

The View Apartment

Located in Washington (Capitol Hill), The View Apartment is within a 15-minute walk of Museum of the Bible and L'Enfant Plaza.
Address: 1100 6th Street Southwest, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf, an IHG Hotel

In the heart of Washington, InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf, an IHG Hotel is within a 5-minute drive of Washington Monument and George Washington University. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, limo/town car service, and express check-out. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has facilities measuring 17000 square feet (1579 square meters), including conference space. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 801 Wharf Street SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf

With a stay at Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf in Washington (District Wharf), you'll be within a 10-minute walk of International Spy Museum and L'Enfant Plaza. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 975 7th Street SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf

With a stay at Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf in Washington (District Wharf), you'll be within a 10-minute walk of International Spy Museum and L'Enfant Plaza. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 725 Wharf Street SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

Global Luxury Suites at The Wharf

A stay at this apartment places you in the heart of Washington, within a 10-minute walk of International Spy Museum and L'Enfant Plaza. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage.
Address: 950 Maine Ave SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
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

DC Marina Side Rentals

With a stay at this apartment in Washington (District Wharf), you'll be within a 15-minute walk of International Spy Museum and L'Enfant Plaza.
Address: 650 Maine Ave SW, Washington, District of Columbia 20024
Web: Link

DC The Wharf Waterfront View Rentals

With a stay at this apartment in Washington (District Wharf), you'll be within a 15-minute walk of International Spy Museum and L'Enfant Plaza.
Address: 975 7th 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