is the washington monument tour worth it

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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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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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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Thing to Do

Visit the Washington Monument

Washington Monument

The interior of the Washington Monument is currently closed, but you may walk around the outside of the building.  

Pets are allowed on the grounds, provided they are restrained on a leash no longer than  6 feet in length.

There is no fee to visit the grounds.

2 15th St. NW Washington ,  DC   20024

Via Metro: Exit at Smithsonian, using the Mall exit. As you exit the tunnel, the Washington Monument will be behind you.

The sidewalks and approaches to the Washington Monument are ADA compliant.

• washington monument
• metro accessible

Last updated: April 15, 2022

897 Steps to the Top of the Washington Monument

The fastest anyone has climbed the 897 steps to the top of the Washington Monument is 6 minutes, 42 seconds. But it’s probably best to just take the 70-second elevator ride up 550 feet to the top.

If you have your heart set on walking it, walk-down tours are twice offered daily based on the availability of National Park Rangers, at 10:30 a.m. and Noon.

Built in honor of the first U.S. President and for his leadership in American independence, the Washington Monument opened in 1884.  But its history of construction was anything but smooth. The project took two 8-year phases of actual construction over a 36-year period. During the Civil war and periods of no finding, the monument’s construction was halted for 20 years between 1856 and 1876.

Initial plans for a national monument honoring Washington was first proposed while Washington was still alive in 1783.  District of Columbia planner, Pierre Charles L’Enfant recommended a statue of a horse-mounted Washington be erected, although Congress took no action. After Washington’s death in 1799, additional recommendations were made, resulting again in no Congressional action. (Some things never change.)  Thirty-four years later, a society was formed to design, fund, and erect a monument.

The initial plans called for a tall obelisk (50 feet taller than the current monument) with a circular colonnade at the base incorporating a statue of chariot-riding Washington along with 30 statues of Revolutionary War heroes.

The cornerstone was laid in 1848, but society infighting and lack of funding delayed progress. In 1854 the money ran out and in 1858, the Civil War halted all construction. For the next twenty years, the monument remained one-third built.

The project was resumed under the control of the Corps of Engineers; now with a modified design that removed the original base and statutes, partially to lower the total cost.  You can still see where the inability to buy similar white stones after construction restarted, which resulted in a slight but noticeable color change of the exterior marble around the 150-foot mark, indicating where the initial construction stopped and the second phase resumed.

A national campaign for funds and marble blocks needed in construction renewed interest and fundraising but brought with it additional problems. Civic groups, businesses, individuals, and organizations as well as local and foreign governments all donated blocks of marble.  But some arrived inscribed with messages, many completely unrelated to Washington.

The monument was finally completed and then opened to the public in October 1888.  Initially, visitors were required to climb the stairs to the top, limiting attendance. After the elevator used in construction was quickly converted to a passenger elevator, a dramatic (25x) increase in the number of visitors happened instantly.

It became the tallest man-made structure in the world at 555 feet, but just one year after opening, the Eiffel Tower dramatically surpassed it by over 500 feet to claim the tallest structure title.

In 1982, an anti-nuclear arms protester, attempting to gain national attention by threatening to blow up the monument, started a hostage drama when he drove his van, which he claimed was packed with explosives, on to the base of the monument. After trapping 8 visitors in the monument and ten hours later, the standoff ended when he raced off and was then shot and killed by police.

The monument offers arguably the best views of DC, the National Mall, and a 20+ mile view of the surrounding area on a clear day.

Washington Monument 15th St. and Jefferson Dr., NW, between Independence and Constitution Ave. Washington, DC ( map it )

Dates and Times – Daily tours are offered from 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., and the monument closes at 5:00.  Walk down tours – daily at 10:30 a.m. and Noon.

Tickets – Free, but a ticket (limit 6 per person) is required and is available on a first-come, first-served basis on the same day at the Washington Monument kiosk. Lines can form early before the kiosk opens, especially on weekends. Advance free timed tickets are your best bet and are available online or by calling 1-800-967-2283 (a $1.50 per ticket surcharge applies).  Online reservations require registration.

Nearest Metro Subway Station – Smithsonian, Blue and Orange lines, then a 4-block walk.

Parking – Limited metered street parking is available.

clock This article was published more than  7 years ago

Opinion Is the Washington Monument worth the wait? The Staycationer investigates.

As I waited to get a ticket for the Washington Monument, I overheard tourists asking the same question again and again. It was, I think, an important question, one that gets to the very root of our national identity:

“Is this the end of the line?” Followed by, “Why is the monument shaped like that?”

I almost said, “It’s an obelisk, dummy.” Then I realized that, though I knew what to call the shape, I had no idea why we put one in the middle of the Mall.

Later, I called historian John Steele Gordon to find out.

“As far as what they meant to ancient Egyptians, we don’t really know,” he said. “They were so expensive to make and transport, they were probably a statement of power.”

We also don’t know why Robert Mills put a supersized obelisk at the center of his design. But the fact that the Washington Monument reaches heavenward might reflect the sense of limitless expansion many Americans felt in the mid-19th century.

Mills’ original concept, Gordon said, was a mess: It called for a circular pantheon around the obelisk’s base, plus a giant statue of George Washington on a horse-drawn chariot. To cut costs, Congress pared the design down to just the obelisk.

“We ended up with this stunning creation,” Gordon says. “It’s quite powerful in its simplicity.”

Back in the ticket line, before I knew any of this, I felt the monument’s power. Standing right next to it for the first time, I looked up. The marble tower completely filled my field of vision and stretched like an endless road into the bright blue sky.

The ticket booth opened at 8:30 a.m., and by 8:45, I was the proud owner of three free tickets for a 1:30 p.m. tour. A family in line about 10 feet behind me wasn’t so lucky.

“Sold out? We got here at 7:30!” a man told a ranger. “Sorry,” the ranger said. “During peak season, I tell people to get here at 7.” (They should have bought advance tickets for $1.50.)

I returned that afternoon with my friend Jared, his sister, Jackie, and Jackie’s 1-year-old. As we approached the entrance, a ranger told Jackie to leave her stroller outside, at the crest of the hill.

“What if it rolls away?” I said.

“That happens sometimes, and we have to go chasing after them,” the ranger said.

It may be undignified, but I’d take stroller-chasing over the other jobs at the monument. Especially the one where you ride up and down the stinky elevator all day long.

The elevator ranger agreed with our odor assessment. “It can get really bad in the summer,” she said. She also told us about the monument’s construction. When it was finally completed in 1885, it was the tallest building in the world, she said.

“Why is it shaped that way?” a freckle-faced kid asked her. We’d reached the end of our 70-second climb, so the ranger didn’t have a chance to answer.

If you’re looking for historic interpretation, the Washington Monument may leave you disappointed. Unlike, say, the FDR Memorial, where you can learn all about the Great Depression, its message seems to be: “Check out this view!”

The view is pretty great. From 500 feet, the Mall unfurls as a tree-fringed carpet, embroidered with gracefully curving pathways. “It’s a good way to get oriented when you first get here,” a visitor from Michigan told me. Jared, a lifelong Washingtonian, also found the perspective edifying.

“What’s that lake doing there?” he said, pointing at Constitution Gardens. “Is it new?” (It’s been there since 1976.)

I overheard a kid explaining to his little brother that the president lives in the Department of Commerce.

“No, the White House is over there,” his dad said, pointing to the left.

“Then why’s it so small?” the child retorted.

We headed down some stairs for a slightly lower version of the same view. Then, it was back onto the elevator.

As we descended, we got one final treat: The ranger pressed a button that turned the elevator walls translucent so we could glimpse the monument’s interior. “Whoa, that’s awesome,” a kid said. I think he was referring to the magic elevator walls, not the carved commemorative stones.

So is the Washington Monument worth hitting? I think so. With few placards to read or artifacts on display, you can do it all in about 20 minutes. And, if you’re like Jared, you might even discover parts of D.C. you never knew existed.

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How Can I Tour the Monuments & Memorials in Washington, DC?

No trip to washington, dc is complete without touring our celebrated monuments and memorials..

Touring DC’s iconic attractions

When you come to DC, especially if you’re a first-time visitor, it’s likely that our world-famous monuments and memorials will be at the top of your must-see list. Most of these major attractions are located on the National Mall , which extends from the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, with many of them running along Constitution Avenue.

Many of the monuments and memorials are open 24-hours a day, 365-days-a-year and you do not need to make advance reservations. These include the  Lincoln Memorial ,  Jefferson Memorial ,  National World War II Memorial , the  Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial , the  FDR Memorial and the  Vietnam Veterans Memorial .

These National Park Service (NPS)-run memorials are usually staffed by NPS Rangers who can answer your questions from 9:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Rangers also conduct various tours and special programming throughout the year. Visit the National Mall calendar page for more information.

Tours that require tickets

There are several major attractions that do require advance tickets. These tickets are usually free or have a minimal charge.

Tickets are required to go to the top of the recently reopened Washington Monument .  Tickets may be  ordered online  for tour dates up to 90 days in advance, while additional tickets listed as "Not Yet Released" are made available the day prior to the desired tour date at 10 a.m. EST. Same-day tickets are also available on a first-come, first-served basis daily starting at 8:30 a.m. at the Washington Monument Lodge, located on 15th Street between Madison Drive NW and Jefferson Drive SW.

Tour groups in United States Capitol Building Rotunda - Attractions and landmarks in Washington, DC

Tours of the  U.S. Capitol also need to be arranged in advance. Free reservations can be made via the  visitthecapitol.gov website. Guided tours begin at the Capitol Visitor Center and include a 13-minute intro film, along with visits to the Crypt, the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall. Visitors can also request a staff-led tour through their Senator or Congress person.

When court is not in session, visitors can take free, self-guided  tours of the  Supreme Court . Trained docents are on-hand to give courtroom lectures every 30-minutes from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. on weekdays. Visitors are also invited to attend oral arguments when court is in session. These seats are extremely limited. Visitors must wait in line the morning of a courtroom session. See the  Visitor’s Guide to Oral Arguments page for more information.

Admission to both the  Bureau of Engraving and Printing (see where U.S. dollars are made!) and the  National Archives (home of the original U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights) are free and open to the public. In busier months, you’ll need to queue in an outdoor line to get inside.

Please visit our touring the White House guide  for more information on booking a tour (Note: these tours must be booked well in advance).

Great options for guided tours

The highly acclaimed Unlimited Biking offers daily, three-hour guided bicycle tours of the monuments with stops at all of the major attractions along the National Mall. Unlimited Biking also offers tours after dark so that visitors can experience magnificent views of the attractions illuminated at night. Big Bus Tours offers open-top sightseeing tours of the National Mall. Enjoy 24 or 48-hour hop-on, hop-off tours of the city's iconic landmarks. Along the way, you can learn about the city's history while listening to the entertaining and informative commentary. Your hop-on, hop-off ticket also allows you to exit the bus to explore and visit attractions up-close.  Get an exclusive discount and save big on  your next Big Bus Tour . Just enter the promotional code VISITDC for the best available deal and start exploring the nation's capital.

Adventure DC Tricycle Tours  offers live and entertaining historical narration as they transport you via pedicab to each monument and memorial. You can enjoy a customized tour that is pet-, child-, and mobility-impaired-friendly. Additionally, private golf cart and electric scooter tours are available. Public scooter tours are open to the general public on Saturdays, with limited availability. The code "DCFUN" will secure a discount on the public scooter tour.

Cruise around the nation's capital in style on Washington, DC Urban Adventures ' unique electric vehicles, where you can see the monuments and memorials on the National Mall by day or night.

For a truly unique way to see the city,  Capital Segway Tours  offers guided experiences of the National Mall and surrounding sites. Visitors glide across town on a Segway, all while taking in the sites of Washington, DC.

DC by Foot  offers free, tip-based walking tours of Washington, DC. These informative tours are conducted by expert guides who make it fun and educational. In addition to the National Mall, DC by Foot takes visitors to the Tidal Basin, Pennsylvania Avenue and Capitol Hill. Visitors can also learn all about President Lincoln’s assassination or about Washington’s secrets and scandals.

Contact  Fiat Luxe Tours  for an exciting private tour experience along the National Mall. Whether you want to learn the history of DC's most iconic landmarks or find the most perfect photo-ops, Fiat Luxe Tours has a tour for you. The company also conducts custom-made tours, too. 

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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.

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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Put These Beautiful National Monuments on Your Must-See List

We love national parks, but they can get packed, especially in summer. These national monuments have the same spectacular landscapes, hikes, and adventures, just without the hordes.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

What is a national monument, anyway? That’s what I kept asking myself as I rode a mountain bike down a rocky trail on sedimentary layers in the Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument. I was rapidly approaching a lower point on the northern rim of the canyon, which is more than a mile deep at some sections. I stopped 2,000 feet above the bottom of the gorge and watched the Colorado River curve through steep cliffs.

The scenery is stunning, the landscape huge…so how is it different than a national park? Turns out, not all that much, at least from a visitor’s standpoint. Most national monuments protect vast landscapes of environmental, cultural, or scenic importance. Ditto national parks.

The real difference is how they’re created: national parks are voted into place by Congress, national monuments are designated by presidents via the Antiquities Act. With monuments there’s less red tape, but sometimes more drama (see Bears Ears, below). Also, while many national monuments are managed by the park service, some are managed by the U.S. Forest Service and others are run by the Bureau of Land Management.

There are 133 national monuments scattered across the U.S., usually no less magnificent than their more famous national-park cousins. Sometimes they have fewer amenities (many lack visitor centers, some have no paved roads), and most of them have fewer crowds. Traveling more than 100 miles around Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument last May, I never saw anyone outside of my own group. That would not have been the case in Grand Canyon National Park. Meanwhile the adventure was just as epic.

I’ve gathered 11 of the greatest national monuments in the country, from green mountains on the East Coast to canyons full of cliff dwellings in the Southwest, to fields of wildflowers on the West Coast. Most of these monuments aren’t famous, but all deserve to be on your bucket list.

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Maine

Katahdin Woods and Waters encompasses 87,563 acres of remote mountains, rivers, and backcountry ponds in northern Maine, sustaining healthy populations of moose and black bears. The monument sits to the east of Baxter State Park, where the Appalachian Trail finishes on top of 5,269-foot Mount Katahdin.

While this neighbor park hosts the last, most difficult gasp of the “A.T.,” Katahdin Woods and Waters has 30 miles of the International Appalachian Trail (a northerly variant that begins here and extends through New Brunswick, Quebec, and a ferry route to Newfoundland), along with a tumultuous portion of the East Branch of the Penobscot River, which flows for 25 miles south through the monument, dropping more than 200 feet in its first 10 miles in a series of waterfalls. Cross-country skiing is popular during the winter; hiking rules in the summer.

Adventure: If you want a quick taste of the monument, the 17-mile Katahdin Loop Road offers short hikes and grand scenic overlooks. But to truly experience Katahdin Woods and Waters, tackle the 10-mile round-trip hike to the summit of Deasey Mountain via a portion of the Appalachian Trail. You’ll have to ford the thigh-deep Wassataquoik Stream and climb almost 1,600 feet, but 360-degree views and a historic fire tower reward you at the 1,942-foot summit. The monument is primitive, without a lot of developed facilities (nor any flush toilets). There are 15 free campsites , but you need reservations.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah

Sandwiched between Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon, Grand Staircase Escalante gets its name from the series of plateaus that descend between those two massive and scenic ditches. Not to be outdone by its more famous neighbors, which cover 36,000 and 1.2 million acres respectively, Grand Staircase is nearly 1.9 million acres of colorful sandstone canyons, cliffs, and arches.

Adventure: Connecting Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyons in the Dry Fork area of Grand Staircase-Escalante makes for the perfect entry into this unique terrain. It’s a three-mile loop, but plan on a whole afternoon exploring the narrow red- and purple-walled gulches. Some of the passages in Spooky get tight, and there is mandatory scrambling, but no technical climbing is required. If you want to explore more technical canyons, Excursions of Escalante has been guiding canyoneering trips in the monument for more than two decades, and offers a rotating roster of full-day adventures packed with rappels (from $225 per person).

Bears Ears National Monument, Utah

Named after twin buttes rising from the desert floor of Southeastern Utah, Bears Ears National Monument has seen more than its share of debate since it was established by President Obama in 2016. The 1.36-million-acre monument is a place of scenic glory and cultural significance: massive red rock cliffs and canyons abound, and a bevy of Native American historical artifacts, from cliff dwellings to pictographs, have been found here.

Today, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe, Ute Indian Tribe, and Zuni Tribe all participate in stewardship of Bears Ears as a sacred place. In 2022, the Biden administration signed an agreement that gives those five tribes input into management of the area, and the five Tribes of the Bears Ears Commission (the Commission) and federal agencies released a draft management plan this year. As for recreation, the Indian Creek Unit, in the northern section of Bears Ears, is a mecca for climbers, who come for the seemingly endless number of cracks in the red rock cliffs. Hikers and bikers follow trails and view artifacts across the region.

Adventure: Bears Ears holds world-class climbing. Sadly, I’ve never climbed in the area (it’s on my list), but I’ve bike-packed through the monument and was awestruck by the sheer volume of towering rock. There are thousands of climbing routes, though not many for beginners. Supercrack Buttress has a high percentage of classic climbs, including the historic Supercrack of the Desert, a sustained and strenuous 5.10+. Consider a full-day guided climbing adventure in Indian Creek with the Moab-based Cliffs and Canyons (from $220 per person).

To see some of the cultural artifacts within Bears Ears, hike an easy five-mile out and back through Mule Canyon where the payoff is access to a series of cliff dwellings tucked into a sandstone overhang. The most notable home has been dubbed “house on fire,” because of the fire-red-toned rock that forms its ceiling. The hike itself is relatively flat as it traverses the dry gorge, with some optional scrambling up sandstone slopes at the end.

There are three designated campgrounds in Indian Creek, all first-come, first-served ($15 a night). Hamburger Rock has 10 sites tucked into mushroom-shaped outcroppings. Always bring plenty of water; there’s no potable water at any of the established campgrounds.

Devils Tower National Monument, Wyoming

Created by Theodore Roosevelt in 1906, Devils Tower was the first national monument in the country, and it’s still one of the most distinctive. The center of the monument is Devils Tower, a solitary butte rising almost 900 feet from the prairie. The monument is not large, at just 1,346 acres, and there are only five hiking trails within the designated area, and all can be combined for a full day of hiking. Tackling only the 2.8-mile Red Beds Trail will give you a good sense of the landscape, as it delivers views of the massive tower and the more serene Belle Fourche River Valley.

Adventure: Climbers have been drawn to Devils Tower for many decades. Parallel cracks divide the formation into large hexagonal columns, and create a variety of crack and corner climbs for experienced traditional climbers. Routes range from 5.7 to 5.13. Durrance, a 500-foot, six-pitch 5.7, is widely considered the easiest way to the summit. Register your climb at the trailhead to Tower Trail, the approach to the monolith, and heed the June voluntary climbing closure , which was implemented out of respect for Native American tribes associated with the tower, which perform ceremonies at the tower during the month. Belle Fourche Campground has 46 first-come, first-served sites under cottonwood trees ($20 per night).

Dinosaur National Monument, Colorado and Utah

Dinosaur preserves 210,000 acres of western Colorado and eastern Utah, where the mighty Green and Yampa rivers converge, creating 2,500-foot-deep canyons. Within the monument are whitewater rapids, red rock canyons, dinosaur fossils encased in rock, and 1,000-year-old petroglyphs and pictographs left by the Fremont people. You can get a sense of the monument by car; Harpers Corner Road is a 32-mile one-way scenic road with views of the Green and Yampa rivers.

If you have a 4WD, peel off the paved road and head to the Echo Park area, the monument’s signature landscape where the Yampa flows into the Green and the conjoined river wraps around the massive Steamboat Rock. There’s a picnic table if you just want to take in the view, or you can camp (see below).

Adventure: Raft the Green River through the heart of the monument. The classic run starts at the Gates of Lodore in Colorado and ends at the Split Mountain Campground in Utah. It’s a class III trip, appropriate for families. Adrift Dinosaur runs four-day trips with catered meals (from $1,499 per adult). There are six established campgrounds, all of which are located on either the Green or Yampa rivers, within the monument. Echo Park has a small campground with 22 sites, first-come, first-served ($10 per site).

Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument, Arizona

While Grand Canyon National Park encompasses arguably the most dramatic swath of “the great ditch,” the Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument lays claim to more than 1 million acres in northern Arizona, including the less crowded and still awe-inspiring northern stretch of the Grand Canyon. The terrain is a mix of Mojave desert, ponderosa pine forest, broad plateaus, and deep canyons.

Just traveling through the monument is an adventure, as there are no paved roads, only 4WD routes and hiking trails. Don’t come looking for a visitor center or developed campgrounds. You’re on your own. I spent a few days driving ATVs, biking, trail running, and camping in and around this monument and was amazed at the views and solitude.

Adventure: If you have a high-clearance 4WD, Grand Canyon-Parashant offers nearly limitless options. Try the 80-mile trek to Twin Point Overlook , which passes through ponderosa pine forest and fields of grazing cattle on its way to a three-sided perch on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, with views of Sanup Plateau, Burnt Canyon, and Surprise Canyon. The dirt road turns to clay as it approaches the Grand Canyon, which can be impassable after a heavy rain. There are a number of primitive campsites along the rim of the canyon; only pitch a tent in sites with existing fire rings.

There aren’t a lot of designated hiking trails within the monument, but check out the six-mile out-and-back up Mount Dellenbaugh , which leads to a doozy of a view of the Grand Canyon. The trail follows an old roadbed up the side of the 7,072-foot peak crossing over chunky, volcano rock towards the summit. On a clear day you can see Mt. Charleston, outside of Las Vegas, on the horizon, as well as the western end of the Grand Canyon.

Colorado National Monument, Colorado

High on the Colorado Plateau, near Grand Junction, the 20,533-acre Colorado National Monument could be considered a mini Grand Canyon, as the red rock canyons the monument encompasses are full of towers and rock formations, like the puffy-looking Coke Ovens pinnacles. You can glimpse much of the monument from the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive, which runs along the edge of the canyon with near-constant high views.

Adventure: Climbing Independence Monument, a sandstone spire that rises 450 feet from the heart of the canyon, might be the signature adventure in the monument. A number of different routes ascend the tower, most of them four to five pitches, followed by a double rappel to descend. The 5.8 Otto’s Route is the classic line. Glenwood Climbing Guides leads day trips up Independence (from $375 for the first climber). Saddlehorn Campground has 80 sites, with half first-come, first-served, while the other half can be reserved in advance ($22 a night).

A number of short hikes begin at Rim Rock Drive. Devils Kitchen Trail is my favorite, as the 1.5-mile out and back leads through some impressive sandstone outcroppings, including the Devils Kitchen, a large natural opening surrounded by towering upright boulders.

Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness, Alaska

Misty Fjords is quintessential Alaska: 2.2 million acres of rainforest, coastal cliffs, and narrow fjords where glacier-carved rock walls rise 3,000 feet from the sea. In this monument, part of the Tongass National Forest in Southeast Alaska, waterfalls drop directly into the bay, while backcountry lakes and streams are surrounded by thick vegetation. Most people experience Misty Fjords via a scenic flight or boat cruise from nearby Ketchikan, but kayakers have free rein.

Adventure: Kayaking is the best way to explore this monument, with its complex shores and many secluded coves. The Behm Canal, a natural channel of calm water carved by glaciers, slices through the heart of Misty Fjords like a highway for boaters. On the east end of the canal, Walker Cove and Punchbowl Cove, where 3,000-foot granite walls rise from the edges of the water, are popular boater destinations with day hikes leading from rocky beaches.

Punchbowl Lake Trail is a two-mile out and back that climbs through the rainforest to a small lake with its own granite walls forming a ring around it. Southeast Exposure runs a six-day guided kayaking trip into Misty Fjords that will have you paddling up to 12 miles a day, hiking to interior lakes, and camping on remote beaches ($1,800 per person).

Thirteen public-use cabins scattered across the monument can be reserved in advance (from $45 a night), as can four first-come, first-served shelters. Punchbowl Lake Shelter, in Punchbowl Cove, might be the best of the lot, as itsits on the edge of a small lake, with access to a canoe.

Carrizo Plain National Monument, California

No cliffs, no caves, no canyons… Carizzo Plain is just a massive expanse of rolling grassland, 15 miles wide and 50 miles long, butting up against the 3,000- to 4,000-foot Temblor Mountains in Southern California. This stretch might sound ho-hum until you realize that the vast prairie is absolutely popping with colorful wildflowers in the spring.

The Nature Conservancy, which worked to protect the Carrizo Plain, acquiring the land and partnering with the BLM and California Department of Fish and Game to manage it, compares the landscape to that of the Serengeti because it’s home to California’s highest concentration of threatened and endangered species, including the pronghorn antelope and San Joaquin kit fox. The centerpiece of the monument is Soda Lake, a normally dry alkali lake bed that occasionally fills with water after heavy rains and  shimmers white with deposits of sulfates and carbonates after that water has evaporated. It looks like a circle of baking soda surrounded by tall grasses and wildflowers.

Adventure: Soda Lake sits near the north entrance of the monument, and you can see it via the 2.1-mile Overlook Hill Trail. But for a real sense of the scope of these plains, bring your gravel bike and pedal a big loop through the rolling hills past the remnants of former ranches, and look for elk and antelope on the prairie. Show up in spring and you may be greeted by colorful fields of poppies, goldfields, and white and yellow tidy tips that stretch toward the horizon. Traffic is minimal, and you can put together a variety of different rides. A great one is a 60-mile all-day adventure on mixed surfaces, combining Elkhorn Road, Panorama Road, Soda Lake Road, and Simmler Road, covering the heart of the monument and with views of Soda Lake.

Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico

Protecting the traditional lands of roughly 23 tribal nations, Bandelier National Monument is worth visiting from a cultural perspective alone. But the landscape is also remarkable, as the 33,677-acre monument is packed with mesas, canyons and a federally designated wilderness with 70 miles of backcountry hiking. Ancient culture and dramatic terrain mesh in the monument’s cliff dwellings, homes that the Ancestral Pueblo people built directly into the sides of rock walls.

Adventure: Take your time and explore the archeological sites in Bandelier. The 1.4-mile Pueblo Loop winds through a series of small alcoves carved in the soft rock walls that you can access via ladders, and into the ruins of large stone houses. From the Pueblo Loop, tack on a one-mile out-and-back side trip to the Alcove House, a massive carved niche that was once home to 25 people. You can reach it by climbing a series of steps and ladders.

Juniper Campground has 57 campsites, 16 of which are first-come, first-served, while the rest can be reserved up to six months in advance ($20 per site).

San Juan Islands National Monument, Washington

Not to be confused with the San Juan Islands National Historic Park, the San Juan Islands National Monument protects 1,000 acres of the Puget Sound islands, covering a contrasting mix of green-forested coves, sheer bluffs, rocky beaches, and lighthouses, all managed by the BLM and scattered throughout the larger 450-island San Juan archipelago adjacent to the Canadian border.

Adventure: The monument is scattered throughout the Puget Sound, so you need a boat to do it justice. It’s tough to decide where to focus your energy in the San Juans, but Patos Island should be on your itinerary. This 200-acre spit of land is managed by the BLM in conjunction with Washington State Parks, and has beaches, hiking trails, a historic lighthouse, and established campsites (from $12 a night). It’s also the northernmost point in the Lower 48.

If you want to explore more of the monument, Sea Quest offers a variety of kayak tours throughout the San Juan Islands. Check out their five-day expedition that features amping on small islands and peeping at orcas from the belly of a boat (from $1,199 per person).

How to Be a Conscientious Traveler

National monuments often lack the same infrastructure as national parks, which means they may not have the staff on-site to help with questions, clean up campsites, or offer guidance. It’s super important to practice Leave No Trace principles in these monuments, and be aware of the cultural importance of the landscape. Many of these properties encompass the historical territory of Native Peoples and contain artifacts that are important to their heritage. Be kind and respectful, leave what you find, and whenever you have the opportunity, use local guides and purchase items from local shops.

Graham Averill is Outside magazine’s national parks columnist. In his opinion, national monuments represent the best of America’s public lands: with all the beauty of national parks, but none of the crowds.

For more by Graham Averill, see:

The 5 Best National Park Road Trips in the U.S.

The 9 Best Gateway Towns to U.S. National Parks

And the 11 Least Visited National Parks Are…

The 10 Best Backpacking Trails in Our National Parks

• Appalachian Trail
• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

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