is the washington monument tour worth it

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Once you’ve managed to get a ticket... - Washington Monument

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Once you’ve managed to get a ticket, definitely worth it

Really struggled to get tickets online before we arrived. Seemed like very limited availability. So queued up on the day. Arrived at 8.45 as it opened and was about 50th in the queue. Waited 35mins and got tickets. A lot of slots had gone but still had some choice. Would recommend getting there before 8.30am Great experience otherwise. Nice lift up there. Friendly and informative staff and amazing views.

Before visiting DC this was top of my wish list. Obtaining tickets - even just one - is not easy, and I spent ages on the computer on the specified advance date. Eventually, one ticket popped up and I managed to book. Ahead of the scheduled time those in the next group need to wait in turn close to the entrance. There is no cover, so come prepared if the weather is unpleasant. Once inside you are whisked up to the top of the monument in the elevator. The views from the top are spectacular with distant panoramas in every direction and information boards pointing out all the major sites across the Capital and beyond. Well worth the free visit.

Excellent history of the monument and great views of Washington. Iconic DC landmark. Visited the top of the monument in small groups due to space constraints and it was not overly crowded which I liked. However there is a lot of demand to visit the monument and there is a strict ticketing process. We lucked into tickets the day before we left Washington. Thought we would have to miss this again and had tried unsuccessfully on prior occasions to get tickets. Because of the ticketing situation I doubt I would go again, but if you can get tickets, I would definitely put this on your must do list for Washington!

The monument is legendary and a must see for our nation's history. The grounds are clean and well kept. Many paths keeps the crowds moving along. Multiple national park rangers present for assistance. Plan well in advance if you want to get the timed ticket to the top. The National Park stamp station was out of scrap paper to collect the stamping for those that forgot their national park stamp book.

Every American needs to see this monument as well as others in the National Mall. Truly amazing. Just don’t buy $11 ice creams in the food trucks 😂

We prebooked the tour up the monument on the day, securing an afternoon slot. When it was our time many people were being turned away so def worth doing. We were whisked up in the elevator and could wander around inside the top of the monument for as long as we liked, seeing all four aspects across the city. Amazing views and impressive architecture

Visiting The Washington Monument: What To Know Before Planning A Trip

Everything you need to know before visiting one of the country's most visited tourist attractions is all right here.

The Washington Monument is one of the most recognizable and impressive landmarks in all of Washington D.C.— a city known for its museums, national historic sites, government buildings, and other famous monuments devoted to the founding fathers.

However, what sets the Washington Monument apart is its size, shape, and overall majesty. At 555-feet tall, the towering, pristine obelisk looms over the rest of D.C. and is instantly recognizable from afar, making it the most prominent landmark in the city —and a must-see for visitors.

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About The Washington Monument

The Washington Monument was built to honor the leadership, accomplishments, and overall contributions to American history by George Washington, the first president of the United States. Completed in two phases, the structure was ultimately finished in 1884 and has been an impressive memorial in the heart of D.C. ever since.

At the time of its completion, the Washington Monument was the tallest building in the world. Shaped like an obelisk, its construct is both awe-inspiring and dynamic. With clean lines and a plain, unadorned aesthetic, its simplicity is overshadowed by its overall size and grandeur.

Throughout the years, the monument has been restored several times; however, its overall shape and impressiveness have not diminished over time as it remains the tallest and most imposing monument in D.C.

What To Know Before You Go

Because the Washington Monument is one of the most famous landmarks in the city, it is important to be prepared before visiting.

Health And Safety

The Washington Monument is currently adhering to all safety protocols in accordance with COVID-19 health and safety guidelines. For the safety of all visitors to the monument, the following protocols are currently in place.

• Timed ticketing and limited entries
• Physical distancing, including reduced elevator capacity
• Additional cleaning and safety measures, including access to touch-free sanitizer dispensers throughout the monument
• Touchless check-in
• Face coverings are required for all persons over the age of two while inside the monument, regardless of vaccination status

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Ticket Information

Visitors must purchase timed tickets to ride the elevator to the top of the Washington Monument. Currently, the demand for tickets is very high and usually sells out within a few minutes—so be prepared.

• Tickets are available online ONLY from recreation.gov. There is no onsite ticket purchasing or distribution
• Tickets are available starting at 10 AM daily for the following day’s visits. Every ticket is good for up to 4 persons in a group who are traveling together. There is a non-refundable $1.00 reservation fee per ticket

Need To Know

• All visitors are subject to a security screening before entering the monument. Bulky items such as strollers are prohibited. There are no weapons allowed. For a full list of restricted items, visit the National Park Service website .
• To enter the monument, follow the posted signs to the waiting areas designated for specific entry times; the waiting area is located on the east side of the monument. From there, visitors will be directed to security screening areas.
• The elevator ride to the top lasts just over a minute, and there’s no time limit for the observation level. Those uncomfortable with small spaces and/or heights should be aware that there is no alternative way to the top other than by elevator.
• The waiting area is outdoors, so be prepared to wait outside in an area exposed to sun, wind precipitation, etc. The monument may be closed in the event of severe or unsuitable weather conditions—tickets will be voided for any affected entrance times.
• There are no restrooms inside the monument. The nearest restrooms are in the Washington Monument Lodge.
• There is a small museum located on the floor below the observation deck for those wanting to learn more about the history of the Washington Monument.

Other General Information

• Address: 900 Ohio Drive SW Washington, DC 20024
• Phone: (202)-426-6841
• Hours:  9 AM-5 PM daily, except July 4 and December 25. The last tour begins at 4:30 PM
• Getting There: The easiest way to get there is by taking the Metro (the closest stops are Federal Triangle and Smithsonian). However, the monument is also accessible by bus by taking the National Mall route, or by driving—visitor parking is available on Ohio Drive.

Fun Facts About The Washington Monument

• Visitors can expect to see approximately 25 miles in every direction from the observation deck
• The elevator was renovated in 2019, and can now accommodate hundreds of visitors (due to COVID-19 protocol, the limit is currently 8 passengers)
• The Washington Monument is located on the National Mall between the U.S. Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial, so there’s plenty to see after a trip to the top of this historic monument
• The Washington Monument is the world’s tallest free-standing stone structure

Visitors to Washington D.C. will be inspired by the impressive Washington Monument towering over the city. This distinctive structure is special not just because of its historical impact and importance, but because of the stunning views of the city from the observation deck over 500 feet above the ground that offer panoramic views of everything from the U.S. Capitol Building to the White House.

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Guide to Visiting the Washington Monument

Gaze up at this iconic stone obelisk, the defining feature of dc's skyline and one of the nation’s most recognizable structures.

Built to honor George Washington, the Continental Army's commander-in-chief and the first United States president, the Washington Monument was once the tallest building in the world at just over 555 feet. The monument to America’s first president still holds the title of the world’s tallest stone structure and obelisk.

@wandering.photon

The New & Improved Washington Monument

After years of renovations and reopening in 2019, the Washington Monument has raised expectations for visitors with a new state-of-the-art elevator that will efficiently move hundreds of visitors up to the observation deck daily. The minute-long ride up 50 stories to the top of the world's tallest free-standing stone structure includes a video from the National Park Service about what to expect. From the observation deck, you can see nearly 25 miles into the horizon in every direction, including landmarks like the U.S. Capitol, the White House, Arlington National Cemetery and the Washington National Cathedral.

Part of what makes traveling in the elevator so historic is that, on the two-minute descent, it offers a glimpse of the interior walls, which are lined with stones that commemorate George Washington, placed by states, civic groups and others. The modern system gives the National Park Service operators better control of the elevator with remote access from the ground.

Before experiencing the new elevator, visitors will encounter another improvement to traveling to the top of the Washington Monument – an upgraded security screening facility at the base of the structure. The new security structure can accommodate up to 20 visitors and has more modern screening equipment.

The Washington Monument is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (last available tour ticket is at 4 p.m.) except for December 25, July 4 and part of July 3. Visitors can reserve tickets on recreation.gov  in advance. A limited number of walk-up tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis beginning at 8:45 a.m. outside of the Washington Monument Lodge.

Find out more information with our Washington Monument tour and ticket guide for both groups and individuals.

More on the Washington Monument

Maintained by the National Park Service, the Washington Monument is located on the center of the National Mall between the U.S. Capitol and the  Lincoln Memorial . The easiest way to get to the monument is by taking the Metro . The two closest Metro stops are Federal Triangle and Smithsonian, both on the Blue, Orange and Silver lines. If traveling by bus, take DC Circulator’s National Mall route or ride Metrobus routes 32, 34, or 36. If driving, visitor parking is available on Ohio Drive, between the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials. Note that street parking is often limited near the National Mall.

@laurenepbath

Why does the Washington Monument have two colors?

It wasn't easy to build Washington Monument. The structure was originally designed by Robert Mills, with construction beginning in 1848. The combination of the Civil War, the Know Nothing Party's rise to control of the Washington National Monument Society through an illegal election and lack of funding led to a halt in construction in 1854. When construction resumed in 1879, marble was used from a different quarry, and time and weather erosion led to the difference in color, which begins at the 150-foot mark.

The monument was finally completed in 1884 by Thomas Casey and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and an elevator was added to the monument in 1889.

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Washington Monument Improvements - Elevator and Screening Facility (miniature in the picture)

From the top of this 500 feet high iconic masterpiece, visitors can now see their favorite DC attractions, everything from the monuments and memorials on the National Mall to the farther away National Cathedral.

We here at MOE took a trip to the top and back and noted down the top 10 things you should know to make the most of your visit.

#TravelSmart Tips at a Glance

Free same-day walk-in tickets are available from sept 19 to oct 18, you must get in line by 8 am latest for the walk-in tickets, you can take up to 6 tickets per person, tickets for oct 18 and onwards can be reserved online after oct 10 with a $1.50 fee, there's a security screening without any lockers, the ascent to level 500 takes 70 seconds, the viewing area and the windows are small, don't miss the details of level 500 and the museum at level 490, the 2-minute descent shows some of the commemorative stones, it takes 60 minutes for the tour, but there's no limit.

• Take the free DC Circulator or ride the metro

Use Parking Apps to park and Street park on Sundays for free

If you're planning to go to the top of the monument in the first month of its reopening, same-day first-come-first-serve tickets are your only option.

The tickets can be picked up from a small visitor center called the Washington Monument Lodge located at 15th Street, between Madison Drive, NW and Jefferson Drive, SW.

The handouts begin at 8:30 am. On weekends and holidays, all the passes for the day are given out within the first hour. People line up from as soon as 6 am on some days to get the earliest tickets available.

Line for tickets on Saturday at 8:15 am

For weekdays, you can arrive a little later. However, there's a surge in visitors expected for the next few weeks on weekdays too.

Not all members of your party need to stand in the queue. A maximum of 6 passes can be handed out to one person at a time.

Same-day walk-in tickets will still be available after Oct 18. But in addition to that, you also have the option to use this online portal to make advance reservations .

It only costs $1.50 and is definitely worth the time savings as you don't have to wait in a line on the morning of your visit day. Reservations can be made starting Oct 10 at 10 am.

#TravelSmart Tips

Planning to visit the monument on any of the following dates? You need to be on on your toes and make your reservations as soon as the portal opens.

• Next 6 weekends after Oct 18
• Thanksgiving Long Weekend
• Christmas and New Years Week

One of the most significant improvements during the 3-year closure of the Washington Monument is the secure screening facility at the entrance.

Restricted Items

Plan to arrive 15 minutes before the time on your pass. Carry minimal items with you to avoid any hassle during the security screening. Note that there are no lockers or a holding area for you to drop off any unwanted items.

You have to take off any watches, belts, phones, and wallets to be scanned. Food items are allowed as long as they are sealed. Water bottles are okay, but open cups will have to be thrown away.

The next notable improvement to the facility has been made to the elevator, which can take 18-20 guests adequately to the top. On your way up to the 500 feet high observatory, a 70-seconds long informational video will keep you engaged.

Screening Facility Miniature

You can count the 8 windows at the top of the monument from the ground below, 2 in each direction. But once you're there, you'll notice how tiny they are. At a maximum, only 2 people can comfortably enjoy the expansive sight from any window.

In spite of the small area up there, timed tickets naturally control the crowd. So it won't take too long for a window area to be entirely available for your group to take pictures from.

In addition to enjoying the aspects out of the windows, pay close attention to some of the features inside. A few instructions, like the one below, will highlight the impressive details.

Details in the Interior

After the viewing gallery, take the stairs to level 490. It may sound boring to some of you but at least skim through the exhibits.

They present fascinating information such as the engineering behind this highest masonry edifice in the world, why the structure has two bands of colors and several other historical facts.

One of the Exhibits on Level 490

On your way down, you'll get a glimpse of a few stones that commemorate George Washington. With 20 people around you and only two semi-transparent doors of the descending elevator, it is difficult to look at it any longer than a few seconds.

Glimpse at the Commemorative Stones from the elevator

You should expect to spend an hour from the entry to exit. That gives you enough time to check out everything at a relaxed pace.

View of the city from the top

However, if you would like to stay longer, there is no restriction. The only time you may think of staying longer would be to catch a sunset.

Take the free DC Circulator or ride the metros

Whether you are coming with reserved tickets in the middle of the day or to pick up tickets early morning, a free ride on the DC Circulator is the most recommended way to arrive.

You can find more information on the stops and routes of the Circulator here to plan your trip.

DC Circulator

If you're traveling from farther away, use the WMATA metro service. You can find the best metro station to get off depending on your starting point by visiting their website or using Google Maps.

There is street parking available all around the national mall, which costs $2.30 per hour and is restricted to 2.5 to 3.5 hours.

Street parking is not recommended if you're planning to pick up same-day tickets. Who knows how long will you be in the line and which tickets will you get.

Instead, use one of the parking apps reviewed here . You can find a flat rate full-day parking within half a mile from the monument for as less as $10-$15.

However, street parking is free for Sundays and is a smart option to be close to the monument as well as save money.

Washington Monument

Have you been waiting to enter the centerpiece of DC and head to the top? How do you feel now that it has finally reopened? Comment and let us know your experience after your visit.

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My name is Sunkist and I am the creator of MOE. No, I haven’t sold my belongings and ditched my 9 to 5 job for an expedition around the world. In fact, I am just like you. I have a weekday job and only 15 days of vacation time in a year. I am economical but I also want quality experiences in a variety of destinations. Over the last few years, I have learned to #TravelSmart while I #ExploreAmerica and I simply want to pass my tips, itineraries, and stories to you. Are we clicking already? Well, then what are you waiting for?

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How to Tour the Washington Monument in DC

T he Washington Monument is one of the most iconic landmarks in Washington D.C. Standing at 555 feet tall, it offers incredible 360-degree views of the city from the observation deck at the top.

It took four trips to Washington DC, but I finally managed to get a ticket. The first few times, the building was under construction and the third time, I didn’t prioritize it.

What I didn’t realize was how cool it would be to walk inside.

How to Tour the Washington Monument

In order to tour the Washington Monument, you need to get tickets.

This past MEA break, we got to Washington DC and my son mentioned he wanted to go up the Monument. Thankfully I was able to make it happen, even without advanced planning.

Brief History of the Washington Monument

The Washington Monument was built to honor George Washington, the first U.S. president and commander of the Continental Army.

Planning began shortly after Washington’s death in 1799. In 1833, the Washington National Monument Society formed to raise funds. Architect Robert Mills was chosen to design an obelisk surrounded by columns and statues.

Construction started in 1848 but halted in 1854 due to insufficient funds and the Civil War. When it resumed in 1879, the design was simplified to an unadorned obelisk.

The cornerstone was laid in 1848 using the same trowel as Washington used for the U.S. Capitol cornerstone. Memorial stones were donated from states and countries.

Completed in 1884 at 555 feet, it was the tallest building in the world until the Eiffel Tower surpassed it. The exterior is marble and granite, the capstone aluminum.

The monument has endured damage over time, requiring repairs. The most extensive restoration occurred from 1998-2001 when it was fully scaffolded.

Today it remains an iconic D.C. landmark, offering panoramic views from its observation deck to over 600,000 annual visitors.

How to get tickets to the Washington Monument

The Washington Monument is managed by the National Park Services and is free to enter. You can reserve tickets online, 30 days in advance of the tour. To run the site, they charge a $1 service fee for online reservations .

I highly recommend you reserve your tickets exactly 30 days before you want to visit. Tickets are released at 10:00 a.m. and sell out in minutes. To improve your chances, create an account beforehand.

Same Day Tickets for the Washington Monument

If you can’t secure tickets, don’t stress out. Same-day tickets are also available.

Located just in front of the monument, on 15th Street, you’ll find the Washington Monument Lodge. Tickets are distributed on the back of the building starting at 8:45 a.m.

People start lining up around 8 a.m. or earlier. We arrived 30 minutes early and managed to secure tickets for the 9 a.m spot. Many people send one or two from their group early to get tickets for a later time.

Each person, 16 and over, can get up to 6 tickets. Tickets sold out within an hour. During peak season, Summer

Your timed ticket is a 30-minute window. We got to the ticket window a little after 9 a.m. and were still able to get 9 a.m. tickets.

Afte that, head over to the Washington Monument around the flags. There are two lines, one for the current window, and one for the next time slot.

Security Screening

Be prepared to go through airport-style security screening. You’ll need to remove all watches, belts, coins, phones, keys, etc. before going through the metal detectors.

Photography is allowed once you’re through security.

When my Husband and I asked each other what the most intense security was we went through in DC, my husband thought this was it. Keep in mind, we also went into the White House, the FBI and the US Capitol.

What’s inside the Washington Monument?

After getting through security, you’ll get a short tour of the monument as you wait for the elevator. One of the most notable things is getting to see the sculpture of George Washington.

French sculpture Jean-Antoine Houdson made the life-size sculpture of Washington in 1788. It was made from a case of the president’s face, making it one of the most realistic statues.

This particular one is a copy of the original marble statue in the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond.

The Elevator to the top

The high-speed elevator whisks you up 500 feet to the observation deck in just 70 seconds.

Before the fast elevator ride, visitors went up 896 steps. Thankfully that’s no longer required. But the stairs were closed in 1971 due to safety concerns.

The Observation Deck

At the top, you’ll have 360-degree views of Washington D.C. sights like the Lincoln Memorial, White House , Capitol Building, National Mall, Arlington Cemetery, and more.

Each side has two windows. The left most window has a step allowing younger visitors access to the window.

Museum Level

After fishing up your view of the city, take the steps down one floor. Sitting at 490 feet is the museum level.

This is where you’ll find out all the details about its construction and artifacts.

Commemorative Stones

Along the way, you can view commemorative stones donated by states and organizations during initial construction. The 194 commemorative stones were used as a fundraising tool.

Minnesota is made from Pipestone quarried from Pipestone National Monument .

Each stone is quarried locally and has the donator’s name carved in. For information on where the stones are located in the monument, check out NPS.gov.

When you catch the elevator back down, it will slow and dim the lights to spotlight some of the memorial stones as you descend.

Washington Monument Fun Facts

The blocks comprising the Monument are freestanding masonry, meaning there is no cement holding them together.

When the Monument first opened, the original elevator ride took 8-10 minutes to reach the top observation deck. Today’s high-speed elevator makes the journey in just 70 seconds.

There are 896 steps climbing to the top of the Washington Monument for those wanting to take the stairs.

The interior staircases were closed to the public in the 1970s due to vandalism and safety issues. While ranger-led stair tours were once offered, staffing challenges have prevented these opportunities in recent years.

The aluminum cap at the very tip of the Monument represented innovative metallurgy for the time.

DC building height laws restrict most buildings to no more than 160 feet tall. As a freestanding structure, the 555-foot Washington Monument remains the tallest building in the city.

From the observation deck, views span out over 30 miles on a clear day.

The Washington Monument was once the tallest building in the world at 555 feet. However, it was surpassed by the Eiffel Tower in 1889.

The marble’s color changed visibly because construction was stopped for over 20 years due to a lack of funding.The new marble came from a different quarry.

The Monument incorporates stones from Maryland, Massachusetts, and other sources.

In today’s money, the $1.2 million construction cost equates to over $30 million.

The same ceremonial trowel used by George Washington to lay the Capitol cornerstone was used to lay the Washington Monument’s cornerstone.

The original design envisioned 30 columns surrounding the Monument and statues of Declaration of Independence signers.

How early should I arrive to the Washington Monument?

Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before your ticket time to go through security.

How long do you need to visit the Washington Monument?

Plan for at least 1 hour up and back down, plus time at the top.

Can I take photos?

Yes, photography is allowed once you clear security. Tripods are not permitted.

Would I recommend visiting the Washington Monument?

Yes, we had a fabulous time visiting. It was an impulse decision to see it and I’m so glad my son asked to go. If you get the opportunity, I highly recommend it.

The post How to Tour the Washington Monument in DC appeared first on DayTripper .

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Washington Monument

One of the most celebrated and spectacular sights on the National Mall , the Washington Monument, stands as a grand tribute to our nation’s first President, George Washington. The 555 foot obelisk is also one of the oldest and most recognizable memorials in the City. While construction began in 1848, the monument was not completed until 1884 because of financial difficulties during the Civil War.

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Visitors from around the world are treated to breathtaking views from the top of the monument where the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, the Capitol and the White House can be seen. Inside, 192 memorial stones that were donated from various states, cities and historical societies are seen on the walls.

At the bottom of the monument, fifty American flags fly in honor of George Washington, symbolizing the current fifty states and the nation he founded.

Admission to the Monument

Today, visitors to Washington DC can tour the monument and visit it day or night, including climbing to the top of the obelisk. Although it is free and open to the public, guests need to get tickets in order to tour the monument. Tickets can be reserved in advance of you can go to the Washington Monument Lodge on 15th Street adjacent to the Monument to pick them up. You’ll be given a specific time for your tour.

What You’ll See

Tours of the Washington Monument begin as guests enter the elevator and ascend to the 500-foot level where incredible views of the city can be enjoyed. There are a variety of exhibits on the 500 and 490 foot levels, including historic photographs and interesting facts about the monument, the city of Washington DC and George Washington.

Fun Facts About the Washington Monument

• The famous monument opened to the public on October 9, 1888.
• The original design of the Washington Monument was quite different that what it is today.
• The first design featured a rotunda and a Roman-like George Washington.
• The cornerstone contained a portrait of George Washington , newspapers, US coins and a copy of the Constitution. It was laid out in a ceremony on July 4, 1848.
• Washington DC is not the only place with a Washington Monument. There are two more in Maryland, one in Boonsboro and another in Baltimore. The Baltimore monument was designed by the same architect that built the one in DC.
• Construction of the monument took 40 years and cost $1,187,710. The monument is considered to be an engineering marvel. Mortar was not being used in the process, it’s held together entirely by gravity and friction.
• The elevator ride to the top of the monument takes about 70 seconds; the original steam-driven elevator took up to 12 minutes.

Things to Do Close By

Located on the National Mall, the Washington Monument is surrounded by many interesting sights and attractions .

US Holocaust Memorial Museum

A unique and moving experience, the US Holocaust Memorial Museum contains a variety of exhibits that are designed to demonstrate the horrors that surrounded the Holocaust. The permanent exhibition contains 900 artifacts, 70 video monitors and four theaters showing footage and interviews with eyewitnesses. As part of the experience, each visitor is given an identification card with the story of a survivor and is lead through a chronological timeline of the historical event. Because of the intensity of the exhibition, the museum is not recommended for children under 11.

Lincoln Memorial

Located on the western end of the National Mall just a short distance from the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial is a tribute to Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. It was dedicated on May 30, 1922 and the focal point, a statue of Lincoln seated, is 19 feet tall and carved out of 28 blocks of white Georgia marble. On the walls of the memorial visitors can read several inscriptions, including Lincoln’s second Inaugural address.

Reflecting Pool

Between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, the Reflecting Pool is a sight not to miss, especially if you are visiting in the evening when the monuments are lit up . An iconic site, the pool is visited by more than 24 million people each year and creates a dramatic image of the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, depending on your vantage point.

Jefferson Memorial

A beautiful neo-classical building located on the Tidal Basin, the Jefferson Memorial was completed in 1943. In 1947, the statue of Thomas Jefferson was added to enhance the tribute to the third president of the United States. Distinguished by its circular marble steps, portico, columns and dome, the building is one of the most visited memorials in Washington DC . Inside on the interior wall, experts from the Declaration of Independence are inscribed.

National World War II Memorial

Located on the National Mall between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument , this unique memorial was dedicated in 2004 to honor those Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice during WWII to defend the freedom of our country. A total of 59 granite pillars are arranged in a semi-circle around a plaza. On the walls are scenes depicting the war. Take a historical journey with the service men in the scenes as they began their experience in the war. Also significant is the Freedom Wall and its 4,048 gold stars, each representing 100 Americans who died in the war.

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How to tour the Washington Monument?

Visiting the Washington monument is a fantastic way to learn about US history and culture as well as appreciate its architectural beauty. The Washington Monument is an unforgettable experience – a colossal tribute to America’s first president. Did you know it was the tallest building in the world upon its completion in 1884, standing 555 feet, 5.125 inches?

The best way to take a Washington Monument tour is to reserve tickets on their website before you go. While picking up tickets on the day you visit is possible, they tend to go quickly, and the line starts forming around 7 am. Unless you’re a natural early bird, you may as well go to the website before you arrive – especially if you don’t want to wait around for 90 minutes until they open at 8:30. Tickets to the Washington Monument are free, although reserving them comes with an extra charge of $1.50 per ticket, and they’re available on the website three months before the date of the visit. With proper planning, visiting Washington Monument can be an enjoyable and memorable experience. There are plenty of places where spontaneity can work out while you’re on vacation, but in our opinion, the Washington Monument isn’t one of them.

Once you’ve made it to the top of the monument, there are two floors of exhibits you can look at. These exhibits feature historical photographs and information about the memorial, the city, and George Washington himself. However, the natural attraction of the Washington Monument is the view from the top. The monument is over 500 feet tall, making it the tallest structure in DC and giving you an idea of the entire city. Be sure to take some snapshots as souvenirs from your journey across time! 

From the observation deck, you can see nearly 25 miles into the horizon in every direction. D.C., Maryland, and Virginia are visible from the top of the Washington Monument. To the east, the U.S. Capitol, R.F.K. Stadium, the Anacostia River, Nationals Park, and the National Arboretum; to the north, the White House, National Cathedral, and Shrine of the Immaculate Conception; to the west, the Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the Potomac River, the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial, Theodore Roosevelt Island; to the south, the Tidal Basin, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, the Pentagon, the Washington Channel, and the George Washington Masonic Memorial.

If you’re interested in seeing more of Washington, DC, why not check out our self-guided tour of the city? Available through the Action Tour Guide app on both iOS and Android, the tour will take you through some of the most exciting places in Washington, including the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian, as well as offer some background history on the city itself.

I’m sure you will love our self-guided tours. I strongly recommend that you subscribe to Action+ , which includes all of our tours in a single, year-long package. Travel all year and take our self-guided tours with you wherever you go!

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How to Go Inside the Washington Monument: And What to Expect at the Top!

• January 6, 2022
• Updated December 12, 2023
• In National Park Sites , Washington DC

Do you want to go inside the Washington Monument? We’ve got you covered!

The Washington Monument is one of the most recognized monuments in the country. The 555-foot tall obelisk stands in the heart of the National Mall. And it draws visitors from all over the country and the world.

It’s one of the most popular things to do in Washington, DC . And because of that, it’s difficult to get tickets to go inside the Washington Monument.

We got lucky on one of our weekend visits to Washington, DC , and were able to secure tickets. It was such a fun experience to see the city from above!

If you want to go in the Washington Monument, the guide below will explain how and when to secure those tickets. And we even give you a sneak peak of what to expect at the top!

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Where is the Washington Monument?

Before you go inside the Washington Monument, you need to know how to get there!

The Washington Monument is almost dead center between the Capitol Building and the Lincoln Memorial in the National Mall. The Monument is between 14th and 17th Streets and Constitution and Independence Avenues.

Parking for the Washington Monument

The National Park Service offers paid parking all along the National Mall. Parking time is limited to 2-3 hours to allow for more visitors, depending on where you park.

There is a small parking lot off of Maine Avenue, along the Tidal Basin.

Otherwise, there is street parking along Madison and Jefferson Drives and sections of Constitution and Independence Avenues.

How to Get Tickets to the Washington Monument

Since the Washington Monument reopened in 2019, tickets have been hard to get. Especially on holidays and weekends!

There are three ways you can get tickets to the Washington Monument.

First, the  National Park Service releases tickets  at 10 am, eastern time, 30 days in advance. So if you want to visit on June 6, those tickets will be released on May 7th.

The National Park Service also saves some tickets to be released the day before at 10 am eastern. Using the above example, tickets for June 6th would be released on June 5th.

Both the 30 days in advance and day require a non-refundable fee of $1 per ticket .

Last-minute visitors have an opportunity to get same-day walk up tickets .

They are released at 8:45 am at the Washington Monument Lodge, located along 15th Street between Madison and Jefferson drives.

You may reserve up to 6 tickets per person/account . Kids under two years old do not require a ticket.

Touring Inside the Washington Monument

When you arrive at the Washington Monument for your reserved time, you’ll have to go through security.

No food or drinks are allowed inside the building . Exceptions to this include formula for infants and sealed water bottles.

After security, you’ll be directed to the elevator. On the elevator ride up to the top of the Washington Monument, you’ll learn some fun facts about the structure.

At the top of the Washington Monument, on the observation deck, windows are facing in all four directions. Photos near the windows help visitors find and identify important buildings and monuments from 500 feet up.

On a clear day, visitors will be able to see almost 25 miles away. But some of the best things to see are right near the Monument, including the Lincoln Memorial and Reflection Pool, the White House, the Pentagon, and the Capitol Building.

After exploring the Observation Deck, you must go down to the floor below to ride the elevator down to the exit.

While waiting for the elevator, take the time to explore the mini-museum, full of interesting facts about the construction and history of the Monument.

Lastly, the elevator ride down to the bottom of the Washington Monument takes a little longer than the ride up.

The longer ride allows visitors to see some of the 193 memorial stones on the east and west interior walls. The elevator slows down at two points to let riders look at some of the beautiful stones.

Tips for Planning Your Visit to the Washington Monument

Keep in mind these following tips to make your visit inside the Washington Monument stress-free:

• There are no bathrooms inside the Washington Monument . Several public restrooms are near the Monument, including one facing 15th Street and another along Independence Avenue.
• No food or drinks are allowed inside the Washington Monument . Exceptions are made for baby formula and sealed water bottles.
• No weapons or sharp objects are allowed inside the Monument. This includes items like nail clippers and tweezers. Double-check they are not in your bag!
• You are not allowed to bring strollers inside the Washington Monument.
• Your visit will take about 30 minutes.

Washington Monument Facts

Before you visit the Washington Monument, you can wow your friends and family with these fun facts:

• At 555 feet, the Washington Monument was the tallest building in the world when it was completed in 1884. It lost its title to the Eiffel Tower in 1889.
• There are 896 steps to the top of the Washington Monument. Don’t worry! Everyone gets to ride the elevator.
• The stone color changes about 150 feet up because the stones came from different quarries during construction.

Other Fun and Tips While Visiting Washington, DC

There is so much to do in Washington, DC, including FREE museums and other attractions .

Before you visit with kids, check out these tips to make your trip a little easier .

The surrounding area, Arlington and Alexandria , also has tons of things to do!

And don’t forget to visit George Washington’s home of Mount Vernon . It is a short drive from the city.

Read It Now. Pin It For Later!

Lauren is the visionary behind Where the Wild Kids Wander. She is a travel enthusiast who lives outside of Philadelphia. For more than a decade, she's been hitting the road, exploring the nooks and crannies of the United States alongside her family. Her passions include visiting big cities and small towns and trekking through nature's trails. She loves sharing those adventures with fellow travelers.

How To Climb To The Top Of The Washington Monument

Travel guide.

As soon as you make a  Day trip to DC from NYC , the central axis of the tour will undoubtedly be to visit the National Mall as it is the place where most of the city’s museums and historical monuments are concentrated. At each end of this location is the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol, but right in the middle is one of the most majestic memorials in the entire city, the Obelisk –  Washington Monument , which we will talk about today.

History of The Washington Monument

This monolith is about a 170 meter high piece of architectural art that pays tribute to the first president of the United States, George Washington, as one of the most iconic figures in the history of the country.

At the end of the 18th century, the president wisely led the North American troops during the independence war. He won by working lightly armed and without expert men, granting him total respect from the entire American community. So much so that they wanted to proclaim him “king” of the nation, to which he refused.

In 1789 he obtained the position of president and began the first of his 2 terms, a period during which he created a solid government, providing support to the national bank, the army and the navy. All for the needs of the community, therefore, as a result of his exploits and his fight for the country, since 1783, the congress began to plan the creation of a monument in his honor. They proposed “that an equestrian statue of George Washington may be erected in the place where the residence of the Congress is established” although, at that time there was not yet a definite place for this purpose.

In 1797, the population requested that George Washington remain in the presidency for a third term but he refused, he retired to his rest home and died there 2 years later.

After his death, the congress decided that the ideal would be to create another type of monument, perhaps a tomb inside the Capitol but, as a result of a lack of funds and the contradictory decision of the family, disagreements were created that forced them to search for a new option.

Finally, in 1833, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the former president, different projects were started to gather donations and thus build the National Monument to Washington; about two years later they had raised nearly $ 30,000 so they announced a contest to submit a design for the monument.

In 1848, Congress donated 150,000 m2 of land to develop the project, an area perfect for its great view of the Potomac River and that, thanks to its height, could be seen from almost anywhere in the city and also, when being a public land, it would be protected from any type of visual obstruction.

Construction of The Monument to Washington

The obelisk was designed by Robert Mills, an important architect who devised and began the work on July 4, 1848, when the first stone of the obelisk was installed after a ceremony by the Masons, an organization to which the former president belonged. The architect did not have the opportunity to see his work completed as he died in 1854, the year in which the first stage of construction was halted when donations ran out.

The construction took 40 years to complete since the state could not cover all the costs of the work, therefore they chose to request, to different states, stone donations so that they felt part of the construction, reducing costs. This change made the obelisk have different types of marble in its structure, causing, after the first 50 meters of height, some color changes that are noticed on its surface. On December 6, 1884, the last stone was laid.

Until October 9, 1888, the obelisk was open to the public, where they could access to the top and appreciate the best panoramic view of the city.

It may not appear to be a very striking monument at first glance, but the importance to the country goes beyond its appearance and focuses on what it means. In any case, its 169,294 meters high and its marble and stone structure give it such an impressiveness that it is still considered the tallest stone structure in the world.

Interesting Facts About the Washington Monument

• Until 1889 it was considered the tallest structure in the world, until the construction of the Eiffel Tower was completed.
• The Washington Monument  is an obelisk taller than those erected in some cities in Europe and Egypt.
• The Washington Monument has  893 steps to the top .
• In 1888 about 55,000 people went up a month, currently it exceeds 800,000 visitors a year.
• In 1966 the monument was inscribed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• In 1982 the monument was taken as “hostage” by a protester who claimed to have explosives on him.
• In 2005 a fence was installed to allow the passage of pedestrians and cyclists, but prevent the passage of vehicles.
• During 2005, 2 false bomb threats were obtained at the facility.
• From the base to the viewpoint there is a height of 152 meters.
• In 2011, after a strong earthquake, the monument had to be closed to the public as several cracks occurred and it took 2 years to recover the structure.
• At the base there are 50 flags that represent each of the states.
• It weighs more than 70 million kilos.

It is possible to climb to the top of the obelisk

It is possible that during your next  Washington D.C. one day tour from New York  you will be able to  climb or get to the top of the Washington Monument , the advantage is that now it has an elevator that will help you avoid the fatigue of climbing more than 500 steps to reach the terrace, but if you are a sports lover and time is not pressing, we invite you to go up on your own and write a “check” on your list of things to do.

To have a successful visit to the monument, we recommend you to take into account the following:

The Washington Monument has its doors open every day of the week except on July 4th and December 25th. The access to the terrace is from 9 am to 5 pm, the last allowed ascent is at 4 pm. During the summer season it is open until 10pm.

If you go on a  Washington DC day trip from NYC , keep in mind that access times to the observatory may vary depending on the weather.

The entrance to the Washington Monument and its observatory is FREE, but it is a very popular plan among tourists and locals, therefore tickets are sold out in a short time. Although the ticket offices open at 8:30 am, in high season it is common to see lines from 7:00 am, so it is likely that before noon the tickets are already sold out.

If you want to avoid lines and possible disappointments, we recommend making an  online reservation for your tickets , you can do it up to 3 months before your visit and you can book up to 6 tickets at a time. This service has a cost of $ 1.50 per ticket and you can choose the time of your visit in advance.

This option is perfect to ensure access to this plan, especially if you travel during high season. For a better experience, we recommend you to book your ticket for the afternoon hours, just when the sun begins to fall, so that you can see the panoramic view of the city during the day and at night, in less than an hour, you can even appreciate wonderful sunsets. *

IMPORTANT!  Due to the pandemic, the visit to the monument is suspended until further notice.

* Another option:   When you can’t get tickets online or at the ticket offices, if you’re lucky, you can go to the school groups that visit the monument between March and June. Schools often reserve more tickets than they actually require, so when they have left over, instead of throwing them away, they give them away by standing right at the base of the obelisk. If on your next  Day Trip to Washington DC from New York  you find a group of children dressed alike, and you still do not have tickets, do not hesitate to ask the guides of those groups for excess tickets, it will be worth it.

Security measures:

Before the pandemic, it was mandatory to go through a security filter before entering the monument, so it is essential that you be there about 30 minutes before the time stipulated on your ticket.

Once you get to the obelisk, look for one of the security employees, dressed in a green shirt and beige hat, who will join you to the security or the waiting area, in case you arrive very early. 10 people enter at the same time.

It is worth mentioning that the waiting area is outdoors, therefore you should go with everything you need to accommodate the weather.

NOTE:  There is no storage area in the monument, therefore you must take only the implements you need. What you cannot enter will be discarded.

Remember that you cannot enter with:

• Baby carriages
• Large backpacks or bags

How long is the visit to The Washington Monument?

From the time you arrive at the National Mall until you leave it can take an hour, including the time it takes to pass the security filter, the elevator wait time (there is only 1 elevator available), etc. If you are one of the few people who visit the temporary exhibition, it can take an additional 20 to 30 minutes.

As you go up 152 meters in the elevator, in about 2 minutes, a ranger will give you a brief summary about the history of the monument and some curious facts.

What to See from The Observation Deck of The Washington Monument?

As soon as you exit the elevator you will have the possibility to walk freely on each side of the monolith, from there you will be able to observe:

• The White House
• Downtown Washington
• The capitol
• Smithsonian museums
• The memorial to Thomas Jefferson
• Part of the state of Virginia, weather permitting.
• The memorial to World War II
• The Abraham Lincoln memorial

You will also find a museum, on the next floor, where you will find images and information about the construction and maintenance of the obelisk. You will also see information about the times that the monument has been at risk from natural events, such as the 2011 earthquake or strong storms.

During the descent in the elevator, the guard will turn off the lights so that you can detail the memorial stones, those that were donated by different states and civic organizations during its building. To get a good photo, we recommend you to avoid being in the center of the booth.

Will you be one of the lucky ones to  climb to the top of the Washington Monument ? We hope that, on your next  Washington 1 day tour from New York , you will have the opportunity to create the best memories and photos to show your friends and family. If you require advice to prepare your vacation, contact us, we will be happy to help you plan your visits to the United States.

We have everything prepared for your vacations in New York .  Check our tours and trips and get ready to live the best experience of your life.

Famous Places in New York

New York Boroughs: From Manhattan to Brooklyn.

Washington Monuments: A Cultural Journey through History

Best Activities in New York: Must-Do Experiences

Blend of Past and Present: A Day in Washington DC from New York

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Washington Monument Tour

Washington Monument

Walk Up Tickets (Same Day Only)

The Washington Monument Lodge, located along 15th Street between Madison and Jefferson drives, opens at 8:45 a.m. for distribution of free, same day, timed tickets on a first-come, first-serve basis. One person may obtain up to six tickets as well as request their preferred ticket time. All visitors (including children ages 2+) must have a ticket to enter the Washington Monument. During peak season, tickets run out quickly. Be advised that many visitors form a line to wait long before the ticket window opens.

Online Advance Tickets

30 Day Advance Reservations - Order tickets online up to a month in advance of your visit. Inventory for the next available day (30 days out) becomes available at 10 a.m. each morning (e.g. - on May 7 at 10 a.m., tickets will become available for visits on June 6).

24-Hour Advance Reservations - Didn't get tickets in advance or planning a last minute visit? A limited number of additional tickets are made available at 10 a.m. each day for the next day's visits (e.g. - on May 7 at 10 a.m., tickets will become available for visits on May 8).

Both 30 Day Advance and 24 Hour Advance reservations may be made at recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. Though there is no admission fee for the Washington Monument, there is a $1.00 service charge per ticket to cover reservation service; these fees are NON-REFUNDABLE. Ticket availability is limited and all tickets for a given day are often reserved the day they become available.

Group Tickets (Online Only)

Groups may reserve up to 55 tickets up to 30 days in advance at recreation.gov ONLY. No walk ups are available for group tours. There is a $1.00 service charge per ticket to cover the reservation service.

Please plan ahead: All visitors MUST print their tickets in advance or have their tickets available to view on a mobile device. Please review printing directions in the Need to Know section.

Ticket holders awaiting entry gather on the plaza benches near the monument entrance. Ticket holders should prepare for potential exposure to the sun, wind, rain, and extreme temperatures. There are no restrooms, drinking water, food, or other amenities within the monument. The Washington Monument Lodge located on 15th Street has restrooms available to the public.  

Access to the monument is secured by the United States Park Police. Visitor screening is to prevent prohibited items and other threats from entering the monument. This screening program is similar to what is done at airports and other federal buildings.  No storage is available for prohibited items.

Upon entering the monument visitors ascend via elevator to the 500-foot level to behold sweeping views of the city. At the 500' Observation Level, visitors will be able to enjoy the views and speak with a Ranger. Visitors will descend one floor to the 490' Exhibit level to learn more about the Monument and prepare for the return trip. A 70 second elevator decent will conclude the trip. To learn more about Washington the man, the engineering marvel of the monument, and the design of the city named in his honor, Rangers will be available at each level to provide insight into the stories of this legacy. 

Select a date to see a list of times

Need to Know

The Washington Monument is open 9 am to 5 pm daily (last available tour ticket at 4 pm) except for December 25, July 4, and part of July 3. 

Visitors must be on-site by their ticketed tour time.

The National Park Service prohibits the following inside the Washington Monument:

(No on site storage available for prohibited items)

• Food and drink (except a small quantity of sealed food items);
• Bags larger than 18 x 16 x 8 inches;
• Animals (except service animals);
• Glass or ceramics;
• Weapons (including anything with blade or point including pocket-knives, scissors, nail-clippers, tweezers, etc);
• Ammunition;
• Mace or aerosols (Sunscreen, Deodorant, Bug Repellant, etc);
• Vaporizers/E-Cigarettes;
• Explosives or highly flammable substances; and 
• Additional items as listed in the Washington Monument web site: https://www.nps.gov/wamo/planyourvisit/restricted-items.htm  

Please let the security staff inside the screening facility know if you have any medical conditions ( e.g. pacemakers) that require special attention at the security screening facility.

Advanced reservations are required. Tickets listed as “Not Yet Released” will become available one-day before the tour date at 10 a.m. Eastern Time. Until further notice, walk up tickets and group reservations will not be available. 

All Recreation.gov orders are final. All fees are non-refundable. Advance reservation holders can print tickets via their Recreation.gov account.   

The National Park Service may close the monument due to inclement weather, safety concerns, or other unforeseen events. All fees are nonrefundable. To re-schedule, you must make a new reservation (which includes a new reservation fee).

All visitors MUST print their tickets in advance or have their tickets available to view on a mobile device. You may print tickets from your confirmation email or by visiting “My Reservations” on Recreation.gov. Please ensure you have these tickets prior to arriving at the Washington Monument.

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Enjoy Mesmerizing Monuments at Night in Washington, DC: The Ultimate Guide + How To

• Post author: Rachel Means
• Post last modified: 2023-10-25

Washington, DC monuments are grand and impressive and should be at the top of your DC must-see list.

Washington, DC monuments at night are even more amazing to behold and warrant a second visit! Stunning photo opportunities await!

Whether you take a guided tour one evening or create your own free adventure several nights in a row (we’ve done both), don’t miss seeing the DC monuments at night!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and associate of other programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Why Go See the DC Monuments at Night? That Can’t Be Safe…

Your first visit to DC can be overwhelming. There’s a lot to see in the US capital city. The National Mall will seem like it’s nothing but museums and monuments. (That’s basically true and sort of the purpose of the National Mall.)

Everywhere you turn, there’s another monument.

Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson.

Vietnam, Korea, World War II.

And every tourist has to see them all . (Me included! No shame.)

What this means is large groups of people all competing for the perfect picture of all of these amazing monuments and memorials. It can be extremely difficult to get a good shot without other people in it. For some of us, that’s super frustrating.

Minimize the Crowds in Your Photos

What many people miss out on is visiting at night! The museums close early and most of the tourist hordes disappear, to their hotels or restaurants or perhaps a ball game. This leaves the monuments with less people to contend with (compared to daylight hours) to get your perfect photo.

The secret to perfect travel photos without other people in them: go obscenely early or late in the day.

In this case, catch the lull between day trippers and night tours and get some sneaky and beautiful blue hour photographs. If you just can’t handle a late dinner, then eat around 5PM or 6PM and go to the monuments later.

Most night tours are between 6PM and 9PM, give or take an hour depending on time of year. Generally, if you show up at 8PM and stick around for a few hours , you’ll have the monuments relatively to yourself by the end of the evening.

The night tour buses will bring in waves of crowds that will all snap their pictures and be gone in 15 minutes and on to their next stop. Wait out these crowds.

Be Smart. Be Safe.

Note that while there will be less people out you will by no means be alone (unless it’s cold or very, very late/early). The National Mall area is well-patrolled and there’s always at least one or two security officers per monument.  

When visiting the Tidal Basin area, lighting along the waterfront is ok but not great . The memorials are all well-lit but the paths between are not as heavily travelled as the National Mall paths.

Use caution and common sense when walking in the dark. Bring a flashlight and walk with purpose, not like you’re lost. Explore with a group (the more people, the better). Stay sober and alert. Be smart, and you’ll be fine.

If at any time you feel uncomfortable, just leave.

Which DC Monuments are Lit Up at Night?

Not every tour goes to all of these monuments, but these are the most popular. Starting at the east end of the National Mall and then rotating counterclockwise:

• The US Capitol

The White House

Washington monument, world war ii memorial.

• Vietnam Veterans Memorial (Vietnam Wall)

Lincoln Memorial

Korean war veterans memorial, martin luther king jr memorial, franklin delano roosevelt memorial, thomas jefferson memorial, us marine corps war memorial (iwo jima memorial).

US Capitol Building

A working monument, if you will, and instantly recognizable . Not all tours actually get out here, but many buses drive by slow enough you could snap a quick pic.

Can’t get too close, but views from both sides of America’s Executive Mansion are pretty awesome. Know that you are being carefully watched by the Secret Service, even if you can’t see them, so don’t try to sneak closer for a better view.

I got called out by an officer for walking on the grass (still behind all barriers, mind you) rather than the sidewalk a few feet further away. Guess that makes me a rebel.

Obelisks are cool. This one is so tall that it can be seen from both ends of the Mall and from the Tidal Basin. Capture some sweet reflections in either the Tidal Basin or the Reflecting Pool.

Beautiful fountain during the day and gorgeously lit up at night, this is one of my favorite monuments at night.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall

The Vietnam Wall is not brightly lit, but it’s worth a stop if you have the time. This is a good location for blue hour photography, right after the sun sets or right before the sun rises.

A stunning monument, day or night. Lincoln caps off the western end of the National Mall, so you also get great views of the rest of the Mall from his front steps.

This memorial seems like it was made for viewing at night! The solider statues are spaced out and among the trees and really brings out the constant, unsettling vigilance you see in each statue’s face.

Chiseled out of the rock, peering out over the tidal basin, Dr. King has even more gravitas at night . This memorial also has its own gift shop across the road, so it’s worth a visit both day and night.

There are several statues to see here, but these are not all lit up as much as the other memorials. Go early in the evening, sunset or shortly after, to see everything. The fountain is still worth a visit in the dark.

There are so many great locations to get phenomenal photos of this memorial! Visit the memorial itself to see Mr. Jefferson in person, but then walk along the waterfront for unique views from every angle.

Snap a shot with the Washington Monument photobombing in the background. Get a reflection in the water. Get a shot of both TJ and MLK Memorials. The possibilities are endless.

Brilliantly lit and surrounded by inky black evening, this memorial makes a statement at night. Off by itself, across the river from the rest of the National Mall, this monument is by Arlington Cemetery. I honestly preferred it at night rather than during the day.

Is a DC Monuments at Night Tour Worth It?

Absolutely , especially if your goal is to see it all in one evening.

Even if you’ve got more time, a tour is a great way to scope out all the monuments and pick ones you want to return to the following evening when you have more time or when the weather is more cooperative.

What’s the Downside of a Tour?

Tours can get expensive for big groups, and they frequently sell out well in advance of popular holidays or peak tourist season. With proper planning, you’ll get a ticket but not much you can do about the price.

Tours also put you on a clock. For example, you’ll get 30 minutes or so to see the Lincoln and Korean War and Vietnam Veterans Memorials in all their nighttime awesomeness before you have to be back on the bus and heading for the next monument. That’s only 10 minutes per monument ; you better walk fast.

How Much Does a Tour Cost? How Long Do Tours Last?

Prices vary by company. In general, bus tours are 2-3 hours long and run $45 per adult. Here are some popular night tour options:

• Old Town Trolley Monuments by Moonlight Tour : rolled down windows for exploring in the rain or rolled up for clear nights
• Big Bus Night Tour : open top buses, great on clear nights
• USA Guided Tours DC at Dusk Tour : a bit pricier but nicer buses and a longer tour

Bike tours , Segway tours, and guided walking tours are all options as well.

Is there a Free Monuments at Night Tour?

Sure! Create your own free DC monuments at night tour!

Remember, you’re paying for the transportation and the guide on the tours. All the monuments are public access and free to enter. No lines to wait in, either.

The biggest downside to the DIY free option is transportation. Many, but not all, monuments are within reasonable walking distance of each other. But even seasoned pros can get tired of walking circles around the National Mall all day.

Some memorials, like the Iwo Jima/Marine Corps War Memorial, are off by themselves. You have to drive and find a place to park, or hire a taxi and ask them to wait while you take photos.

Suggested Routes for DIY Free DC Monuments at Night Tour

Route #1: West End of the National Mall

• Start at the Washington Monument .
• Walk towards the Lincoln Memorial to find the World War II Memorial at the base of the Reflecting Pool.
• Next, it’s a little tricky to get to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in the dark if you don’t know where you’re going but we can do this! Google Maps can bail you out if you get lost.
• Walk counterclockwise (to the right as you’re looking at the Lincoln Memorial) around the Reflecting Pool. Choose the path further to the right in the trees rather than the path right next to the Reflecting Pool.
• About halfway to the Lincoln Memorial, there will be a path on the right with a marker pointing you to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. (You’ll also pass public restrooms if you need them.) Follow the marker and turn left at the end of this path.
• Stay to the right and continue to follow signs. You will finally end up at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial .
• Continue to the Lincoln Memorial .
• Exiting the Lincoln Memorial, turn right (opposite direction you came from the Vietnam Memorial) towards the Korean War Veterans Memorial .

Optional Add-On: MLK Memorial

The Martin Luther King Jr Memorial is on the tidal basin but within a reasonable walking distance from the Korean War Memorial, if your legs are feeling good and you’re up for extending your tour.

• Leaving the Korean War Memorial, walk south (away from Lincoln) towards Independence Avenue.
• Stay on the sidewalk on this side of the street and turn left to continue along the road until you come to the pedestrian signal to cross Independence Ave. (Note: this walk is equal to about half the length of the Reflecting Pool and is not short.)
• There is a marker to guide you at the intersection, and you’ll see the lights across the street from the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial .

If you’d rather do the Tidal Basin another night on its own, here is one recommended route. You can really start at any of the three monuments; just depends where you park or ask Uber/Lyft to drop you off.

Route #2: The Tidal Basin

• The Martin Luther King Jr Memorial is on the northwest corner of the tidal basin and has its own gift shop. Several hop on/hop off day bus tours drop off here, so make it your last stop of the day bus tour and start your DIY night tour here.
• The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is a short distance south (along the tidal basin waterfront or the road, whichever you prefer) from the MLK Memorial. Arrive around sunset to see all the statues here, or make a beeline for the fountain if it’s already dark.
• Continue around the tidal basin waterfront path to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial . Fair warning: this is not a short walk. I’m sure your Uber driver won’t judge if you get picked up at the FDR Memorial and dropped off at the TJ Memorial.

Add-on: Monuments on Their Own

• The Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial) is across the Potomac River and by Arlington National Cemetery. Driving is really the only way to get here.
• The US Capitol Building is beautiful at night. This is the far east end of the National Mall, so you could walk here from the Washington Monument. The Mall is deceiving in its size, so you might find your feet are unhappy by the time you finish your trek.
• The White House is also beautiful at night. Harder to get pictures of because they won’t let you close to the fence. Forget about finding a place to park near here. Walk or taxi.

Last Minute Advice for Visiting DC’s Monuments at Night

• Camera tripods are allowed everywhere on the National Mall except inside the Lincoln or Jefferson Memorials or on US Capitol grounds.
• You need a permit to use a tripod on Capitol grounds . Yes, a security officer will show up and ask to see your permit.
• Bring some snacks and water if walking , especially if travelling from end to end. The National Mall is a 4-mile loop, round trip.
• If you’re not tired after your bus tour, walk or drive back to your favorite monument and get better pictures with less people.

Visiting Monuments Across the USA

Whether you go by day or night, on a paid tour or a free DIY tour, make time to see the monuments of Washington, DC! These free attractions all tell an important story from US history, and they are there so we never forget them!

Looking for more monuments to visit in the US? Check these out!

• Best National Parks to Visit for Black History Month
• Celebrate Presidents’ Day by Visiting a Presidential Home
• The Most Underrated National MONUMENTS in Every State

Happy Travels!

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 36 US states and 14 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

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When is the next total solar eclipse in the US after 2024 and what is its path? What to know

The highly anticipated 2024 total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , giving millions of sky-gazers the chance to see a rare cosmic event that won't be viewable again for 20 years.

The eclipse's  path of totality  will travel over a portion of northern Mexico before entering the U.S. It then it will cross 13 states  from Texas to Maine, where the spectacle is expected to attract huge crowds.

If you aren't lucky enough to be in the path of totality this time around, you will have another chance - you'll just have to wait until the 2040s.

Here's what we know about the next total solar eclipse to cross over the U.S.

Eclipse playlist: Fans return to Bonnie Tyler's 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' ahead of total solar eclipse

When is the next total solar eclipse visible from the U.S.?

It will be 20 years before there's a chance to  witness a total solar eclipse  in the United States again.

According to NASA, after Monday's total solar  eclipse , the next one viewable from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

2044 total solar eclipse path of totality

Unfortunately, the 2044 total  solar eclipse  won't have the broad reach across the U.S. as the 2024 eclipse.

The path of totality during the 2044 eclipse will only touch three states, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach, and political space advocacy.

The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Pets and the eclipse: Will my pets be safe during the April 2024 solar eclipse? What experts say.

2045 solar eclipse

While the 2044 total eclipse will only touch three states, a 2045 eclipse will have a more robust path across the U.S.

Expected to occur on Saturday, Aug. 12, 2045, this solar eclipse will trace a path of totality over California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

A partial solar eclipse will also be viewable in 35 other states, according to National Eclipse.com

What is a total solar eclipse?

Any celestial object like a moon or a planet that passes between two other bodies can create  an eclipse  by obscuring the view of objects like the sun.

In the event of a solar eclipse, the moon comes in between the Earth and the sun, blocking its light from reaching a small part of our planet. Partial eclipses, when some part of the sun remains visible, are the most common, making total eclipses a rare sight to behold.

Total eclipses can lead to a period of darkness lasting for several minutes, during which time nocturnal animals stir while confused birds and insects may fall silent, NASA says.

When a solar eclipse reaches totality, people are able to see the sun’s outer atmosphere called the corona, which is usually obscured by the sun's bright surface. This offers scientists an uncommon opportunity  to study the corona .

Totality also offers spectators a chance to gaze upon the spectacular sight with the naked eye, though  proper  safety  glasses  are still required for the rest of the time.

What states are on the 2024 eclipse path of totality?

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which is expected to occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow will northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. The path will then cut diagonally across the country, traveling through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont and New Hampshire.

The eclipse's path is expected to end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT before visiting the maritime provinces of Canada, according to estimates.

See  interactive maps of the 2024 path .

Contributing: Doyle Rice, Ramon Padilla & Janet Loehrke, USA TODAY

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