The visitor center at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial is typically open from 10 AM to 6 PM. Rangers and volunteers are available from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. The memorial grounds are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial. It is free to the public.
From Washington, D.C., take I-395 South. Exit at Independence Avenue, heading towards 4th and 6th Streets, SW, nestled behind the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum.
General visitor parking is available throughout the city, but not specifically at the memorial. Bus parking is along Ohio Drive, SW. No RV or motorcycle-specific parking; public transportation recommended. No overnight parking; fees may apply for general parking.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
In the heart of Washington, D.C., at the base of Capitol Hill, lies the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial, a poignant tribute to one of America’s most revered leaders. Located on Independence Avenue SW, just across from the National Air and Space Museum, this memorial is a must-visit for those seeking to immerse themselves in history and architectural grandeur.
Designed by the acclaimed architect Frank Gehry, the memorial is a masterful blend of modern design and historical reverence. The site is surrounded by significant institutions, including the Department of Education and the National Air and Space Museum, creating a profound sense of context and legacy. The memorial itself features a first-of-its-kind metal mesh tapestry, statues, and engravings that vividly capture Eisenhower’s life, from his Kansas roots to his pivotal roles as a general and the 34th President of the United States.
Visitors can stroll through the memorial 24 hours a day, taking in the intricate details and reflections on Eisenhower’s life. The area is easily accessible by Metro or on foot, with street parking available for those preferring to drive. As you walk through the plaza, the tapestry depicting the Normandy landscape during World War II is a striking feature, while the statues of Eisenhower as a young boy, a general, and a president offer a multifaceted view of his remarkable life.
The memorial’s location near the National Mall makes it an ideal stop on any D.C. itinerary, especially when combined with visits to nearby attractions like the National Air and Space Museum or the Lyndon Baines Johnson Department of Education Building. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a traveler seeking to experience the essence of American leadership, the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial is a place that will leave you inspired and reflective.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Annual visitors
- 1 500 000
- Established year
- 2020
Top 3 Facts about Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial
The memorial features a 450-foot tapestry constructed of woven stainless steel, consisting of 600 individual panels, each 3 x 15 feet, with around 85 million individual welds.
This urban oasis, despite its city setting, is home to a surprising array of wildlife. Visitors can spot various bird species and even the occasional urban wildlife, though feeding them is discouraged for safety reasons. The landscape, part of a larger green space initiative along Maryland Avenue, features meticulous design that integrates natural elements, creating a cohesive and serene environment amidst the bustling city.
This memorial site is set amidst a urban landscape, yet its design incorporates natural elements. The park-like plaza features a mesh tapestry depicting the Kansas landscape of Eisenhower’s childhood, but the immediate surroundings lack notable natural features like mountains, lakes, or waterfalls. However, the area’s climate is characterized by hot summers with temperatures often reaching over 90°F (32°C) and mild winters, reflecting the typical Mid-Atlantic climate of Washington D.C.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Volunteer & Stewardship.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a spring visit to coincide with the Cherry Blossom Festival. Allow a few hours to explore the memorial, arrive early to secure parking, and anticipate paved terrain with potential for significant walking. Pack snacks and plan meals off-site due to limited options.
Pack Appropriately
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and a rain jacket. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and layers for changing weather. Don’t forget a camera and spare cash.
Respect Wildlife
When visiting this urban monument, respect the local flora by not littering and keeping pathways clear. Avoid disturbing urban wildlife, such as birds and squirrels, especially during breeding seasons. Help maintain the area’s cleanliness to preserve its beauty for future visitors.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water areas, and check weather conditions. Follow park rules and contact authorities at 911 for emergencies.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and blooming flowers create a serene backdrop. Don’t miss Eisenhower Under the Stars in April, featuring stargazing and space exploration discussions, though it’s weather dependent. Clear skies make it a must-visit.
Summer brings warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and humid days, ideal for evening stargazing events like Under the Stars, where telescopes reveal celestial wonders. June’s D-Day Commemoration Concert adds historical depth to your visit.
Visit in fall, when crisp temperatures (50s-70s°F) and golden leaves enhance the memorial’s grandeur. Enjoy the Veterans Day ceremony in November, amidst the serene park-like setting. Ideal for a reflective autumn stroll.
Visit in December, January, or February when temperatures range from 23 to 41°F. Crisp days and occasional snow create a serene backdrop, though chilly mornings and rare subzero nights may require layers. A unique winter wonderland experience awaits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial is Washington, D.C., located at the base of Capitol Hill on Independence Avenue SW, across from the National Air and Space Museum.
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Dogs are not allowed at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial, so there are no rules about leashes. The memorial is a place where pets are not permitted.
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General visitor parking is available throughout the city. For larger vehicles like buses, parking is primarily along Ohio Drive, SW near the Lincoln and Thomas Jefferson Memorials and in East Potomac Park. Public transportation, such as the Metro, is also a convenient option, with the L’Enfant Plaza station being just a block away from the memorial.
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At the memorial, you can see three bronze statues of Dwight D. Eisenhower: one with troops before the Normandy invasion, one with advisors in the White House, and one of him as a young boy. A large stainless-steel tapestry depicts the Normandy coastline, and bas-relief panels show scenes from his life, including the Normandy landings on D-Day, June 6, 1944. The memorial also features inscriptions from his D-Day and inaugural addresses, highlighting his role as the 34th President and World War II Supreme Allied Commander.