Washington Monument National Memorial

The Washington Monument National Memorial is a prominent landmark situated in the District of Columbia, United States. Located on the National Mall, it stands as a tribute to the nation's first president, George Washington. The monument's historical background dates back to 1833 when the idea of constructing a memorial in honor of Washington was first proposed. The monument's construction formally commenced in 1848 but faced several setbacks, including financial difficulties and the Civil War. It was finally completed and opened to the public in 1888, standing proudly at a staggering height of 555 feet and 5 inches.

The Washington Monument serves not only as a symbol of patriotism but also as an observation deck, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its top. Visitors can take a ride in the elevator to reach the observation level, located at the 500-foot mark. However, due to recent renovations, access to the observation level may be limited at times.

Apart from the monument itself, there are several other attractions in the vicinity that visitors can explore. The National Mall, stretching from the U.S. Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial, is an iconic park offering lush green spaces and hosting various events throughout the year. The Lincoln Memorial, honoring President Abraham Lincoln, is situated nearby and features a grand statue of the renowned leader. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, World War II Memorial, and Korean War Veterans Memorial are all within close proximity, allowing visitors to pay their respects to those who served in these conflicts.

Additionally, the Smithsonian Institution's museums, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History, are located nearby. These world-renowned institutions offer comprehensive displays of scientific and historical significance.

In summary, the Washington Monument National Memorial is a significant historical and cultural landmark in the District of Columbia. With its rich history, breathtaking views, and proximity to other renowned attractions, it remains a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

Location

The Washington Monument National Memorial is prominently located in Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States. Situated in the heart of the National Mall, it marks the midpoint between the U.S. Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial. Standing tall at an impressive height of 555 feet, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Its geographical position places it at the eastern end of the Mall, adjacent to the Reflecting Pool, while being surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the White House and the Smithsonian museums. Its central location within the city makes it easily accessible and a popular tourist destination for locals and visitors alike.

Address & Contact

2 15th St. NW
Washington, DC 20024
Driving Directions
Phone: 202-426-6841
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Washington Monument National Memorial would be during the months of September and October. During this time, the average maximum temperature ranges from 70°F to 81°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average monthly precipitation ranges from 3.9 in to 4.1 in, which is slightly higher but still manageable. These months offer mild temperatures and relatively less rainfall, making it an ideal time to explore the monument and enjoy the surrounding outdoor attractions.

Things to do and learn in Washington Monument National Memorial

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Washington Monument National Memorial are: Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

Topics

Learn about these topics at Washington Monument National Memorial: Presidents Architecture and Building Monuments and Memorials Engineering

Amenities

Visitor Centers

Springfield Armory National Historic Site Visitor Center and Museum

The park visitor center offers a large museum dedicated to the American Industrial Revolution and the weapons made at Springfield Armory. There is a Junior Ranger program available.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Springfield Armory National Historic Site Visitor Center and Museum.

Campsites within or near Washington Monument National Memorial

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

Hotels within or near Washington Monument National Memorial

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JW Marriott Washington DC

A stay at JW Marriott Washington DC places you in the heart of Washington, steps from Freedom Plaza and 3 minutes by foot from Warner Theatre. Featured amenities include a business center, limo/town car service, and express check-in. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has facilities measuring 34696 square feet (3223 square meters), including conference space.
Address: 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20004
Web: Link

Willard InterContinental Washington, an IHG Hotel

With a stay at Willard InterContinental Washington, an IHG Hotel, you'll be centrally located in Washington, within a 10-minute walk of Ford's Theater and White House. Featured amenities include wired Internet access (surcharge), a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has facilities measuring 22000 square feet (2044 square meters), including conference space. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 1401 Pennsylvania Ave Nw, Washington, District of Columbia 20004
Web: Link

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

Hotel Washington

Located in Washington (Downtown Washington D.C.), Hotel Washington is within a 10-minute walk of White House and Ford's Theater. Featured amenities include limo/town car service, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. This hotel has 5 meeting rooms available for events.
Address: 515 15th Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20004
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

Courtyard by Marriott Washington, DC/Foggy Bottom

With a stay at Courtyard by Marriott Washington, DC/Foggy Bottom in Washington (Foggy Bottom), you'll be steps from George Washington University and 7 minutes by foot from World Bank. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has facilities measuring 760 square feet (71 square meters), including conference space. Limited parking is available onsite.
Address: 515 20th Street NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052
Web: Link

Hotel Harrington

With a stay at Hotel Harrington in Washington (Downtown Washington D.C.), you'll be steps from Ford's Theater and 8 minutes by foot from Capital One Arena. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk.
Address: 436 11th Street NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20004
Web: Link

Trump International Hotel Washington DC

With a stay at Trump International Hotel Washington DC, you'll be centrally located in Washington, a 5-minute walk from Ford's Theater and 12 minutes by foot from CityCenterDC. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has 38000 square feet (3530 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and meeting rooms. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest, Washington, District of Columbia 20004
Web: Link

Bluebird Suites DC Financial District

With a stay at Bluebird Suites DC Financial District, you'll be centrally located in Washington, just a 4-minute walk from Lafayette Square and 5 minutes by foot from White House. 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: 733 15th St NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20005
Web: Link

National at Market Square

With a stay at this apartment in Washington (Chinatown), you'll be a 4-minute walk from National Portrait Gallery and 5 minutes by foot from Ford's Theater.
Address: 400 8th Street Northwest, Washington, District of Columbia 20004
Web: Link

News and Alerts

Date issued Details
2025-12-14Washington Monument is closed for maintenance one day each month
Closures for 2025: Dec 11, 25. Closures for 2026: Jan 8, Feb 3, Mar 4, Apr 6, May 7, Jun 2, July 4, July 8, Aug 3, Sep 10, Oct 5, Nov 11,26, Dec 25. The monument is also closed for the holidays on July 4 and Dec 25 each year.