washington dc monument tour map

Guide to Visiting the Washington Monument

Gaze up at this iconic stone obelisk, the defining feature of dc's skyline and one of the nation’s most recognizable structures.

Built to honor George Washington, the Continental Army's commander-in-chief and the first United States president, the Washington Monument was once the tallest building in the world at just over 555 feet. The monument to America’s first president still holds the title of the world’s tallest stone structure and obelisk.

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The New & Improved Washington Monument

After years of renovations and reopening in 2019, the Washington Monument has raised expectations for visitors with a new state-of-the-art elevator that will efficiently move hundreds of visitors up to the observation deck daily. The minute-long ride up 50 stories to the top of the world's tallest free-standing stone structure includes a video from the National Park Service about what to expect. From the observation deck, you can see nearly 25 miles into the horizon in every direction, including landmarks like the U.S. Capitol, the White House, Arlington National Cemetery and the Washington National Cathedral.

Part of what makes traveling in the elevator so historic is that, on the two-minute descent, it offers a glimpse of the interior walls, which are lined with stones that commemorate George Washington, placed by states, civic groups and others. The modern system gives the National Park Service operators better control of the elevator with remote access from the ground.

Before experiencing the new elevator, visitors will encounter another improvement to traveling to the top of the Washington Monument – an upgraded security screening facility at the base of the structure. The new security structure can accommodate up to 20 visitors and has more modern screening equipment.

The Washington Monument is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (last available tour ticket is at 4 p.m.) except for December 25, July 4 and part of July 3. Visitors can reserve tickets on recreation.gov  in advance. A limited number of walk-up tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis beginning at 8:45 a.m. outside of the Washington Monument Lodge.

Find out more information with our Washington Monument tour and ticket guide for both groups and individuals.

More on the Washington Monument

Maintained by the National Park Service, the Washington Monument is located on the center of the National Mall between the U.S. Capitol and the  Lincoln Memorial . The easiest way to get to the monument is by taking the Metro . The two closest Metro stops are Federal Triangle and Smithsonian, both on the Blue, Orange and Silver lines. If traveling by bus, take DC Circulator’s National Mall route or ride Metrobus routes 32, 34, or 36. If driving, visitor parking is available on Ohio Drive, between the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials. Note that street parking is often limited near the National Mall.

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Why does the Washington Monument have two colors?

It wasn't easy to build Washington Monument. The structure was originally designed by Robert Mills, with construction beginning in 1848. The combination of the Civil War, the Know Nothing Party's rise to control of the Washington National Monument Society through an illegal election and lack of funding led to a halt in construction in 1854. When construction resumed in 1879, marble was used from a different quarry, and time and weather erosion led to the difference in color, which begins at the 150-foot mark.

The monument was finally completed in 1884 by Thomas Casey and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and an elevator was added to the monument in 1889.

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A Walking Guide To Washington, D.C.'s Monuments

While Churchgate , D.C. offers a wealth of endless monument s, they can be confusing to navigate. To make the best out of your time, follow this guide to discover the most efficient, scenic order to uncover the District’s historical gems – all uniquely constructed with intimate symbolism that gives homage to each man’s legacy. (Yes, all honor exclusively men, but that’s another grievance…)

1. the capitol building.

While not technically a monument , the U.S. Capitol is a good location to commence your walking tour of DC’s historical and political sites! Sitting at the east end of the National Mall, The Capitol Building stares gracefully over the sea of monument s. From the Capitol, stroll straight down “American’s Front Yard,” passing a wealth of free Smithsonian museums, for 1.5 miles until reaching…

2. The Churchgate Monument

3. Jefferson Memorial

Continue along the Tidal Basin’s edge to reach the Jefferson Memorial. The marble, neoclassical structure alights the Tidal Basin at night. The memorial was ranked fourth on the “List of America’s Favorite Architecture” – the grandiose design is an adequate tribute to America’s favorite Founding Father.

4. FDR Memorial

Continue along the scenic Tidal Basin to reach FDR’s memorial. The monument is intertwined within nature – a testament to a president who greatly revered the outdoors, despite his handicaps. His famed quotes are scratched into natural rock formations, and four outdoor rooms symbolize each one of his presidential terms (being the only president who served more than two; in 1947, the 22nd Amendment limiting Presidential terms was ratified by the states.). The memorial also incorporates man-made waterfalls, symbolizing his sponsored dam-building projects. Continue to follow the Tidal Basin until arriving at the feet of one colossal tribute.

5. MLK Jr. Memorial

The thirty foot marble statue gives homage to a man’s legacy so profound that it’s inexpressible. Once an enemy of the U.S. government and FBI, Martin Luther King Jr. is now an honored national icon. The design is based off a quote from the famed “I Have A Dream” speech, delivered nearby on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial: “Out of a mountain of despair, a stone of hope.” Constructed in 2011, MLK’s image is now forever marked upon a stone of hope. Finish the Tidal Basin loop here, and continue forward to arrive back on the National Mall…

6. WWII Memorial

You’ll find yourself at a fountain commemorating the loss of U.S. soldiers during WWII. Consisting of 56 pillars, each state has its own column, along with the U.S. territories. Approximately 4.4 million people visit the memorial each year. It sits at the base of the reflecting pool that leads to The Lincoln Memorial.

7. Korean War Memorial

Walk parallel to the reflecting pool to reach the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Nineteen stainless steel statues, adorned in full combat attire and each measuring seven feet tall, surround a remembrance wall. Drawn directly into a 164 feet long black-granite wall, images of the war and its heroes are embedded.

8. The Lincoln Memorial

Head north to reach the nation’s most iconic president, staring solemnly over the National Mall. He sits on a throne enclosed in a Greek-style temple, with design features reminiscent of the Parthenon. MLK’s “March on Washington” finished at these marble steps – fitting for a memorial of the man that issued The Emancipation Proclamation.

9. Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall

Continue north for the final stop on a monument walking tour . This is the home of the famed Vietnam Wall – 58,307 names of Americans who died in Vietnam are etched into the gabbro rock. When facing the wall in sunlight, the visitor’s reflection is projected onto the wall – allowing people to physically see themselves with the dead, and to merge past and present. A living wall to commemorate those who never left ‘Nam.

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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23 Free Self-Guided Washington DC Walking Tours

This post lists over 20 self-guided walking tours of DC, including GPS-enabled audio tours and neighborhood guides all produced by our guides here at Free Tours by Foot.

Enjoy your self guided tour? Make a donation to help support the guides. You can Venmo @canden-ftbf or Buy Me A Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dcbyfoot

Self Guided tours of Washington DC are a great way to explore on your own time.

Though we love showing guests around Washington, DC on our guided tours , we realize that not everyone has the time to take a walking tour.

If our tour schedule doesn’t work for you, or if you would instead explore on your own, take advantage of our free self-guided tours of Washington DC.

Each tour comes with a Washington DC walking tour map, insider information about best times to visit, photo stops and the stories and symbolism behind each stop.

Tours We Offer:

• National Mall Self-Guided Tour
• Self -Guided Tour of the White House | Lafayette Park
• Arlington Cemetery Self-Guided Tours

Self-Guided Tours of Georgetown

• Other DC Self-Guided Tours

Check out our Things to Do in DC with budget advice, travel guides, and information about local Washington DC attractions, including Free Things to Do in DC , and save money with a tourist pass .

Don't forget to tag us on social media @topthingstododc when you take our self-guided tours! You can share your photos or even ask us a question! 

Self-Guided Tour of the National Mall & Memorials

The memorials tell about the lives of men and women from America's past and present.

The National Mall & Memorials Tour tells the stories from founding father George Washington to Rosie the Riveter during WWII.

You'll learn all about the history, symbolism, and a few hidden stories of these must-see sites.

Here is a sample of the tour:

You could also visit our main DC audio tours page for more samples and information. 

We even have a specific self-guided tour of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial,  Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial , and the Lincoln Memorial . 

Self-Guided Tour of the White House and Lafayette Park

The White House is the most famous building in all of America and is a must-stop while visiting Washington, DC.

While it may be a challenge to get White House Tour tickets , we recommend you at least visit from the outside and learn about it on our self-guided tour of the White House and Lafayette Park.

Learn about the heroes of the American Revolution as you stroll through the park and learn about the man it got its name from. 

The White House is also a featured stop on a number of our walking tours:  National Mall (from afar),   Lincoln Assassination ,  Secrets & Scandals , and  White House Ghost Tours .

Self-Guided Tours of Arlington National Cemetery

Established during the Civil War, Arlington National Cemetery is a testament to the incredible service and sacrifice of our many men and women in the Armed Forces.

Don't leave DC without a visit to these hallowed grounds, which are now the final resting place for over 400,000 veterans.

Though we offer a guided tour of the cemetery with a live tour guide, these self-guided tours are perfect for anyone who is short on time or would prefer a themed tour.

Interested in learning more about? Check out our guide to visiting Arlington National Cemetery !

Our Arlington National Cemetery Highlights Tour  gives you the chance to take your time exploring the cemetery. There is also an audio version available to guide you along the way. 

We also have a few self-guided tours to complement our walking and highlights self-guided tours:

• Black History of Arlington National Cemetery
• Notable Women Buried at Arlington National Cemetery

We recommend taking these after you've taken our highlights tour, as these self-guided tours expand and explore more of the cemetery. 

Older than the rest of Washington, D.C. by nearly half a century, Georgetown is a quaint neighborhood that boasts excellent shopping, critically acclaimed restaurants, and a highly reputable university.

We have a number of self-guided tours of Georgetown:

• Highlights Tour of Georgetown  
• Self-Guided East Georgetown Walking Tour  (also available in  audio tour version )
• Tour of Civil War Georgetown  
• Tour of Georgetown University  (also available in  audio tour version )
• Georgetown Cupcakes and Desserts Tour

EMBASSY ROW SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Originally called Millionaires’ Row, it was mansions and large homes built by the newly wealthy.

Today, the section of Massachusetts Ave NW north of Dupont Circle is the home to many of the embassies in Washington, DC. 

This tour will explore the neighborhood’s history and outside of embassies along the way, finishing up near the North entrance to the Dupont Circle Metro Station on the red line. https://freetoursbyfoot.com/embassy-row-tour-self/

Take our audio tour versions .

Other Self-Guided Tours of Washington DC

• U Street Food and History Tour
• Tour of the Washington National Cathedral
• Tour of Union Station
• Library of Congress Tours of the Jefferson Building
• The Only Cherry Blossom Festival Guide & Map You Need [2021]
• Adams Morgan Self Guided Tour
• Drinking History- A Walking Tour
• Tour of the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts
• Visit the Pentagon 9/11 Memorial
• Visiting the Air Force Memorial
• Self Guided Tour of Historic Annapolis
• Old Town Alexandria Self Guided Tour  (also available in  audio tour version )

Interested in a self-guided tour that we don't yet offer? Send us a note at [email protected] and we'll work on creating that tour in the future! 

Related Posts:

• Free Washington DC Bus Tour
• DC Audio Tours
• Free DC Walking Tours

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16 Most Interesting Washington DC Monuments Tours

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From past presidents and tragic wars to iconic buildings and structures, you’ll never be out of options on the best Washington DC Monuments tours !

Check out my top picks for visiting these iconic monuments, you will find a good variety of transport options to pick the one that best suits your needs! But, if you are looking for something specific, keep scrolling through the article or use our table of content to browse all the available choices.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Washington DC Monuments tours

1 – DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1970 reviews )

“Highly recommend! The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, fun, and swift. If you have a few hours this is the one.” July, Viator

You can’t miss these slick little rides… and they’ll give you the adventure of a lifetime! Intrepid Urban Adventures – USA offers up this exciting trip through the city, hitting all of the best spots along the way.

Admire the legislative buildings of Capitol Hill, the towering spire of the Washington Monument, or the somber power of the Lincoln Memorial as you cruise along.

You’ll get to know these treasures on a more intimate level, complete with live narration to keep things exciting. Best of all, these electric vehicles are eco-friendly, offering an adventure that you can really feel good about!

Summary of the experience:

• Morning or afternoon departures
• Better photos thanks to the open-air vehicle
• 7 people max

With friendly service and heaps of knowledge, your guides will make you feel right at home as you explore. And it’s also the perfect option if you’re short on time and want to see the top sights – or new to town and looking for inspiration for places to return to!

Read more: Best US Capitol tours

2 – DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 4413 reviews )

“We were only in town for the night but wanted to have a cool experience. Seeing all the monuments lit up at night and learning all the history behind the city was a great experience” Chelsea, Viator

This one’s a treat for all of you night owls out there!

As spectacular as the scenery is during the day, it takes on a totally new form at night, when the streets empty out and the lighting creates new and exciting imagery. And with this trip from USA Guided Tours , you can enjoy the nocturnal side of the capital like never before.

Hop aboard your mini-coach and roll past the world-class scenery of this legendary town, enjoying unique perspectives on the monuments and memorials. And with nine different stops along the way, you can be sure of some truly fantastic views of town!

• Scenic night-time experience
• Luxury tour bus
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There’s no end to the amazing information you’ll absorb on this trip, and the trip is just the right amount of time to see everything while still moving at a decent speed. And of course, that spectacular scenery makes it all the better; this is an unforgettable way to enjoy the monuments!

Read more: Best Night Tours in Washington DC

3 – Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 591 reviews )

“A bike tour is a great way to see the monuments! Our guide was knowledgeable, he told us about each monument, and we had time to walk around and explore on our own for a few minutes before heading out for the next one. Would highly recommend.” Kathy, Viator

If you’re looking for something a little more active, strap on your helmets and put your pedaling power to work! And no need to be a champion athlete; this steady, gentle route is one of the best bike tours in Washington DC for adventurers of all types!

Join Unlimited Biking and set out on a delightful trip through town, exploring the National Mall, the Potomac Tidal Basin, and some of the most beloved memorials in town.

You can get some fresh air, a hearty dose of history, and a chance to experience the city’s vibrant biking infrastructure firsthand!

If you’re looking for a distinctive experience that still provides all the best scenery that the city has to offer, this is the trek for you! It’s welcoming to cyclists of all ages and ability levels, and you’ll get plenty of time to hop off your bike and explore some of these amazing spots at greater length.

4 – Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1648 reviews )

“The most memorable part of my experience was the changing of the guard. It was nice to see where some of the most prominent people in history are buried. I enjoyed learning the history of the cemetery.” Isabel, Viator

This powerful, thought-provoking excursion is one of the best Washington DC Monuments tours if you’re interested in military history – especially if you want to see one of the nation’s most honored traditions in action.

While there are plenty of excellent Arlington Cemetery tours , this offering from Guided Tours DC  stands out in the scope and scale of its offerings, as your guide brings you face to face with the tombs of some of the most famous Americans in history.

You’ll also get to witness the famous Changing of the Guards ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a moving tribute to the many soldiers that have perished in various wars.

This is an amazing chance to dive into stories of the Civil War, political dynasties, and everything in between. With your wonderfully educated guides at the helm, you can learn about each of the unique gravesites, and get to witness an awe-inspiring ceremony as part of the bargain.

Read more: Best Walking Tours in Washington DC

5 – Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 3416 reviews )

“We had seen all the sights during the day before, but seeing them at night brought a whole different light to them. Our tour operator, Hollywood, was fun and engaging.” Chris, Viator

Another amazing opportunity to see the city in the evening, this gem from Historic Tours Of America  provides some world-class views, and fun transportation to match!

Your open-air trolley will take you all over town, with a steady stream of commentary about D.C.’s delights.

Learn about the famous figures that have made their mark on these streets, and see the massive tributes to some of their most acclaimed townspeople!

And don’t forget to bring a camera, because you’ll get plenty of time to pause and explore these magnificent places all lit up at night!

You’ll really get the best of both worlds here – a ton of fun facts and a smooth, comfortable ride! With so many stops, remarkable views, and plenty of entertaining guides, you’ll never be short on entertainment; and the trolley itself is half the fun!

6 – Washington DC: Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 440 reviews )

“It was an enjoyable experience. I had a fantastic time. The food was very good.” Carolyn, Getyourguide

Sure, walking, biking, and driving are great options – but don’t leave out the waterways!  The Potomac River is a key natural feature in town, and it also makes a great means of seeing the city, especially when you enjoy one of these classic cruises!

The Odyssey is your vessel for the day, taking you on a luxurious journey along the river, with the capital serving as your backdrop.

Not only will you get some unique vantage points, but you can also indulge in some terrific food, courtesy of the professional chefs on board.

Course after course of amazing food, an upscale atmosphere, the legendary skyline drifting by… it’s a boat trip like no other! This is perfect if you want to splurge a little on your trip, and get the royal treatment while enjoying the beauty of the city after dark.

7 – Washington DC: Washington Monument Entry & DC Highlights

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 22 reviews )

“We enjoyed our tour especially our tour guys personally and knowledgeable of the historic added to the tour. They were on the fun side. It’s always a plus.” Allison, Getyourguide

The Washington Monument is hard to miss, and that’s just the start of the beauties you’ll encounter! USA Guided Tours will take you out for a half-day of fun, complete with stops at all of the major hotspots in town.

And of course, you’ll get plenty of time at the Monument itself, including a thrilling trip to the observation deck, where you can admire all of the wonders of the historic museum inside, then enjoy some breathtaking views from 500 feet in the air!

You’ll get great information and plenty of intriguing insights all along the route, as your guides make the monuments come alive. And of course, the best part of this tour is the chance to explore the Washington Monument itself; it’s a rare chance to take in the scope and scale of the place, without the extra hassle of booking tickets yourself!

Read more: Best Tourist Attractions in Washington DC

8 – Washington DC: Capitol Hill and Library of Congress Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 343 reviews )

“I think the tour guide was fantastic. Her name was Indeborg. She was knowledgable, enthusiastic and willing to answer any and all questions. (…) I would totally recommend this tour because the guide was nothing but extraordinary and the views of the nation’s Capital, Supreme Court, and Library of Congress were breathtaking.” Joshua, Getyourguide

Bills, books, and big decisions are the focuses of this delightful tour, which focuses on the policy center of the United States.

Join Visit DC Tours for a jaunt through the heart of Capitol Hill, with great insights into its most famous buildings.

Soak up the power of knowledge as you roam through the endless stacks at the Library of Congress, then enjoy the halls of the U.S. Capitol, where you just might overhear some policymakers in action.

You’ll even get to catch a glimpse of the Supreme Court, and learn about the operating system of the nation’s most powerful legal system.

This is the ideal tour if you want to dive a little deeper into some truly iconic buildings! You’ll get to go inside two of the facilities, ands enjoy some world-class tours that highlight all sorts of hidden histories. Combined with the standard walking tour, it makes for a great day of sightseeing!

9 – Washington, DC: Scenic Monuments Night Tour by Open-Top Bus

Rating: ⭐️ 4.1/5 ( 336 reviews )

“So much fun! The guide was the sweetest and super knowledgable. It was a great way to kick-off our stay in DC. We were able to get a quick glimpse of all the important stuff and make our way back to each one over the course of our visit.” Francine, Getyourguide

Let’s be real; you can’t go wrong with a scenic bus ride… especially this spectacular nocturnal option!

And this one offers a fantastic way to see all the delights of the Capitol, as you sit in the open air and admire the dazzling light displays.

Big Bus Tours Washington DC will whisk you away on your next adventure, retracing the entire history of the city through its streets and landmarks.

And with multilingual audio commentary onboard, this is ideal for visitors from all over the globe!

This is the perfect starter tour for first-timers, covering all of the coolest places and giving you an endless supply of ideas for things to do for the rest of your visit. It’s also an ideal option if English is not your first language; just sit back, plug into the audio guide, and enjoy!

Read more: Hop on Hop off Washington DC Bus Tours vs Trolley Tours

10 – Washington DC: National Mall Tour by Electric Vehicle

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 935 reviews )

“This was my favorite part of the trip! Our guide, Chris, was fabulous. (…) It was fun enough riding through the city in a golf cart, but getting to see so many sights and monuments in 2-hours was amazing. We learned a lot!” Kate, Getyourguide

This offering from Intrepid Urban Adventures is one of the best Washington DC Monuments tours if you want to focus specifically on the National Mall – and trust us, there’s plenty to see around there!

Your carbon-neutral chariot will putter past Capitol Hill and whisk you by the White House, with plenty of time to enjoy some of the memorials along the way.

Soak up the stories of presidents, war heroes, and all manner of unique political figures, and admire the different forms of dazzling architecture at each stop.

If you’re as concerned about your environmental impact as your tourist experience, you’ll love this eco-friendly adventure! While it’s another marvelous chance to experience the city by moonlight, these vehicles and the route itself are unique, and you’ll get to see a little bit of everything as you roam around.

Read more: Best City Tours in Washington DC

11 – African American History Tour with Museum Admission

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 906 reviews )

“How smart and funny the tour director was. He was amazing. Great experience!! Knowledge of history is key!! He made me understand why slave statues are still important today.” Dexter, Viator

National Museum of African American History and Culture tours have quickly become hot commodities, and this trip with USA Guided Tours is one of the best!

Before you even set foot inside, you’ll spend some time exploring the larger history of the active African-American community in the capital, from historic neighborhoods and tributes to former slaves to some of the spots that played a crucial role in the Civil Rights movement.

Then it’s time to head into the museum itself, with four floors of amazing exhibits to savor; and thanks to your reserved entry pass, you can spend even more time enjoying them all!

The in-depth attention to African-American history really makes this a tour to remember! It’s a tour de force of education, bringing you deep into a side of the city that often gets overlooked; and tickets to one of the hottest museums in town just serve as a bonus!

12 – Night-Time Monuments Bus Tour with Optional Washington Monument

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1700 reviews )

“I liked the knowledge and stories the tour guide shared. The bus was comfortable. The night time experience of the monuments was incredible.” Polly, Viator

If you’d like a little nighttime stroll, the local landmarks will make for a pretty nice backdrop! This is another gem from DC Guided Tours , effortlessly combining the ease of a bus ride with the chance to explore certain sights up close.

And with fewer crowds, you’ll have lots of time to ask questions and look around – and pose for those perfect vacation photos, of course!

As an added bonus, you can even include an entry ticket to the Washington Monument for further exploration during the daytime.

The gorgeous views of the memorials – inside and out – make this an unforgettable evening outing. And with such a wide range of stops, you’ll get a great sampler of all that the city has to offer… and that’s saying something!

13 – Smithsonian Museum of Natural History – Private Guided Museum Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 304 reviews )

“Our guide was wonderful! She took us through the musuem with ease and excellent information. Loved the stories and her sense of humor.” Melissa, Viator

Science nerds and fossil fanatics can soak up the fun as Babylon Tours DC takes you through one of the country’s most beloved museums.

From mummies and dinosaurs to rare gems and some genuine living coral, there’s something new and exciting everywhere you look.

And your guide will not only help you orient yourself and find the highlights, but will also regale you with science facts and stories from the history of the museum itself.

Take a little trip around the world and millions of years back in time… all in one afternoon!

This tour really stands out for its interactive elements and the rare opportunity to dive into one museum at length, and the personal attention just makes it even better! If you want to take in this overwhelming place with ease, your guide will be on hand to help you out – and bring these amazing artifacts to life!

Read more: Best Museums in Washington DC

14 – The National Gallery of Art DC – Private Guided Museum Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 106 reviews )

“Our guide made our experience very rich by explaining the paintings and sharing information about the artist.” Barbara, Viator

From the Renaissance to the avant garde, there’s nothing quite like the collections at this gallery, and Babylon Tours DC provides a look behind the canvas!

This private tour will introduce you to some of the most renowned works in the massive collection, with geniuses like Van Gogh, Raphael, and Monet making guest appearances.

And while the beauty of the works is worth a trip in itself, the expert guidance puts this over the top; you’ll get to learn all about the technique and cultural influences behind the amazing works on display.

Because this tour is personalized, you’ll get to really indulge your inner art nerd!

It gives you lots of time to linger over particular pieces and ask plenty of questions, and you’ll be able to explore the paintings at your own pace.

15 – 4-Hour Small Group Guided National Mall Tour with 10 Top Attractions

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 852 reviews )

“Enjoyed visiting all of the sites on the tour. Wes was very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable about the as areas traveled. Enjoyed the comfortable van and small group tour.” Brenda, Viator

Are you short on time and want to see the best of the best? Then join See DC Today for a whirlwind tour of the biggest spots in town – it’s the perfect starter course for the capital!

Hop into one of the company’s excellent vans and let your driver take you past the political powerhouses, marvelous museums, and beautiful natural features that make up the city.

This is a wonderful way to soak up the history of the city and the nation, and get a real appreciation for the endless heroes and villains that have made their mark here.

There’s lots of amazing information on this trip, but it’s the “greatest hits” format that really makes it stand out. You can see all of the most iconic sites, while enjoying the comfort and ease of the van, and the endlessly entertaining information from your guide – perfect for those in a hurry!

16 – Best of DC Plus US Capitol and National Archives Reserved Entry

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1917 reviews )

“Great tour! Tour Guide Nick was awesome! Very knowledgeable, funny and accommodating. Bus was clean and comfortable. Highly recommend.” Debbie, Viator

Another great chance to go deeper into the nuts and bolts of history, this visit covers both politics and culture – and lets you get up close and personal with it all!

USA Guided Tours offers access to two of the most fascinating buildings in town: the bustling halls of the Capitol, and the amazing galleries of the National Archives, home to the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Declaration of Independence.

And if you’re visiting during warmer weather, you can even take a little cruise down the Potomac!

This is one tour that makes history come alive, with fun and fascinating stories at every stop! The sheer scope and scale of what you’ll see over the course of a day makes it spectacular, and it’s the perfect way to enjoy the capital without worrying about parking – or navigating the streets by car!

• National Archives Museum tours

How to book Washington DC Monuments Tours?

With so many different adventures in the capital, there’s never been a better time to book a trip, and there are tons of companies that offer amazing Washington DC Monuments tours.

There are also plenty of travel websites that sell tours online, and many offer discounts. Keep in mind that because of this, the prices may vary from one site to another.

Want to make the whole thing easier? Use our search engine to compare offers and prices, and even read reviews!

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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