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Washington Monument

National Mall, Washington, DC · Washington, DC

Why you should go…

The 555-foot marble obelisk anchors the National Mall, and the observation deck at its peak serves up the best view in town, the White House, the Capitol, and the Lincoln Memorial all at your feet. Free timed tickets go fast, so reserve online before your trip.

  • #national mall
  • #observation deck
  • #views
  • #landmark

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 Washington Monument, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Museums
    History Buff

    National Museum of African American History and Culture

    Free

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

    Steps awaySwitch it up: Museums

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    United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

    Free

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

    0.2 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • Museums
    Iconic

    Smithsonian National Museum of American History

    Free

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

    0.3 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • Sightseeing
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    National Cherry Blossom Festival

    Free

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

    0.4 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
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    Thomas Jefferson Memorial

    Free

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

    0.6 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    Iconic

    Lincoln Memorial

    Free

    Climb the marble steps where Dr. King spoke and take in the Mall's most moving view, free and open 24 hours.

    0.8 mi awayMore like this