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Lincoln Memorial

2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC · Washington, DC

Why you should go…

Abraham Lincoln has gazed across the Reflecting Pool from his marble chamber since 1922, and the view from the steps, where Dr. King delivered "I Have a Dream", still gives goosebumps. Come at sunrise for quiet or after dark when the memorial glows golden. Always open, always free.

  • #national mall
  • #monument
  • #history
  • #photo spot

Good to know

General sightseeing guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • The forecast is part of the ticket

    Haze, low cloud, and rain flatten a view. Clear-day visits are worth rearranging your plans for.

  • Golden hour sells out first

    Sunset slots at observation decks and cruises are the first to go, so book those further ahead.

  • Dress a layer warmer

    It is always breezier up high and out on the water than it feels at street level.

  • Timed entry is common

    Plenty of landmarks release tickets in windows rather than at the door, so check before you walk over.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Lincoln Memorial, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

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    National Cherry Blossom Festival

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    Annual spring celebration around DC's Tidal Basin with cherry blossoms, a parade and cultural events.

    0.8 mi awayMore like this

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    Thomas Jefferson Memorial

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    The domed rotunda on the Tidal Basin, a 19-foot bronze Jefferson, his words carved in marble, and DC's best cherry-blossom backdrop.

    0.9 mi awayMore like this

  • Museums
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    National Museum of African American History and Culture

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    A powerful journey through African American history and culture, from the slave trade galleries to Motown and beyond.

    1.0 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

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    United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

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    A profound, self-guided journey through Holocaust history just off the Mall, free, with timed passes for the Permanent Exhibition.

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    Smithsonian National Museum of American History

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    Dorothy's ruby slippers, the actual Star-Spangled Banner, and Julia Child's kitchen, America's attic, free on the National Mall.

    1.1 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums