The Lincoln Memorial is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Rangers are available from 9:30 AM to 10 PM daily, except December 25th.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Lincoln Memorial. Admission is free for everyone, every day of the year.
From Washington D.C., take I-395 South, exit onto Independence Ave SW, and follow the National Mall to the western end, where a grand monument awaits, overlooking the Reflecting Pool.
For cars, limited free all-day parking is available along Ohio Drive, SW, south of the Lincoln Memorial. Metered parking costs $2 per hour, with a three-hour limit. No overnight parking is allowed. RVs and motorcycles are not specifically accommodated in these areas. Paid garages are available nearby.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
The Lincoln Memorial, a majestic cornerstone of Washington D.C.’s National Mall, stands as a poignant tribute to Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. This Greek Doric-style monument, with its 36 white marble columns, each representing a state at the time of Lincoln’s death, rises almost 100 feet into the sky, its grandeur reflected in the serene waters of the Reflecting Pool.
Approaching the memorial from the east, past the Washington Monument and the National World War II Memorial, the structure gradually looms larger, its marble columns surrounded by lush greenery. As you climb the stairs to the interior, the focal point is the large statue of Lincoln, while the walls are inscribed with his iconic speeches, including the Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address.
The memorial is open 24 hours a day, but the early morning and late evening hours offer a tranquil and beautiful experience, away from the crowds that throng the site during peak tourist season. It has been the stage for many historic speeches, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have A Dream” speech, and continues to host significant events such as the anniversary commemorations of this pivotal moment.
Visitors can enhance their experience by exploring the surrounding area, which includes a stroll along the Reflecting Pool and visits to nearby landmarks. For those seeking a more immersive experience, visiting during less crowded times allows a deeper appreciation of the memorial’s beauty and historical significance. Whether you are drawn by its historical importance or its architectural splendor, the Lincoln Memorial is an undeniable must-see destination in the nation’s capital.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 8 000 000
- Established year
- 1922
Top 3 Facts about Lincoln Memorial
The columns of the memorial are inclined slightly toward the interior to compensate for perspective distortions, a feature of Ancient Greek architecture, with each column standing 13 meters tall and built from 12 drums including the capital.
This historic site is a tapestry of natural beauty, with deciduous forests dominated by sassafras and oak trees that blaze with color in autumn. White-tailed deer graze at sunset, while red foxes, coyotes, and blue-tailed skinks inhabit the grounds. The air is filled with the songs of scarlet tanagers and bluebirds, and the forest floor is home to white-footed mice, deer mice, and short-tailed shrews. Eastern box turtles and garter snakes add to the diverse fauna, making this a rich and vibrant ecosystem to explore.
The Reflecting Pool, a serene 2,029-foot-long mirror of water, reflects the sky and the Washington Monument, its calm surface broken only by the occasional ripple. Flanked by double allées of Dutch Elms, this tranquil oasis extends the formal design and contemplative character of the surrounding landscape.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during the tranquil early evening or morning hours, especially in spring when cherry blossoms bloom. Approach from the east, near the Washington Monument. Anticipate paved paths and plan for rest breaks. Enjoy free Ranger Talks from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Pack Appropriately
Pack comfortable walking shoes, refillable water bottle, and layers for varying weather. Bring a daypack with snacks, umbrella, and power bank for a day of sightseeing. Consider a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.
Respect Wildlife
Respect urban wildlife by not feeding or disturbing local species. Keep the area clean, and dispose of trash properly. Be mindful of seasonal plant life and avoid damaging it. Leave the area as you found it, or better.
Stay Informed
Stay on designated paths, avoid ledges and water areas, and check weather conditions. Follow signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park rangers. Stay informed, stay safe.
Seasons
Visit in spring, when mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and blooming cherry blossoms enhance the historic grandeur. Enjoy the National Cherry Blossom Festival in March and April, a perfect time to immerse in history and natural beauty. Ideal for outdoor exploration and educational enrichment.
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and humid weather. Don’t miss the 60th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” speech in August, a historic event amidst grand marble columns and lush greenery. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts despite the heat.
Visit in fall, when crisp temperatures (50s-70s°F) and vibrant foliage enhance the grandeur. Enjoy the tranquil Reflecting Pool and evening strolls. Catch the 60th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” speech in August, or serene morning hours in October. Ideal for a peaceful, historic experience.
Visit in winter, from December to February, when temperatures range from 25°F to 45°F. Crisp air and fewer crowds enhance the tranquil beauty of this iconic site, making it an ideal time for a serene and majestic experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lincoln 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 nearest city to the Lincoln Memorial is Washington, D.C., where the memorial is located on the western end of the National Mall. Other nearby cities include Arlington, Virginia, and various towns in Maryland such as Friendship Village and Mount Rainier.
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Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than six feet in length at all times. They must also wear a collar with current tags and owners must pick up after them. Dogs are not allowed inside public buildings.
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You can park at metered spots along streets like Constitution Avenue NW, Independence Avenue SW, and Ohio Drive SW, with rates applying from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Free parking is available along Ohio Drive SW and in lots A, B, and C. Private paid parking garages and lots are also available downtown north of the National Mall.
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The Lincoln Memorial was the site of Marian Anderson’s concert on Easter Sunday in 1939, after she was denied permission to perform at Constitution Hall due to her race, with Secretary of the Interior Harold Ickes arranging the event. On June 29, 1947, President Harry Truman addressed the NAACP there, calling for an end to discrimination. It was also the location of Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic “I Have a Dream” speech during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963. Additionally, the memorial grounds were part of the Poor People’s Campaign and the Resurrection City encampment after King’s assassination, and it was a site for protests during the Vietnam War, including the March on the Pentagon on October 21, 1967.