Lincoln Memorial
A monumental tribute to Abraham Lincoln, featuring a colossal statue and iconic views of the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful, magical light
Lincoln Memorial
Best Time
Peaceful, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental tribute to Abraham Lincoln, featuring a colossal statue and iconic views of the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument.
"The Lincoln Memorial is absolutely breathtaking — both in design and in meaning."
🌅 Sunrise Serenity
Visit at sunrise for a peaceful experience and stunning light. You won't regret the early alarm!
🚶♂️ Walk the National Mall
Enjoy a scenic hour-long walk from the Supreme Court to the Lincoln Memorial, taking in other sites.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Seated Lincoln Statue
Interior Chamber
A colossal marble statue of Abraham Lincoln, exuding gravitas and inspiring reflection on his legacy.
Reflecting Pool & Washington Monument View
Front Steps
Iconic vista of the Reflecting Pool leading to the Washington Monument, especially magical at sunrise/sunset.
Inscribed Speeches
Interior Walls
Powerful inscriptions of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Address, offering historical depth.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Accessibility & Construction
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunrise Serenity
Visit at sunrise for a peaceful experience and stunning light. You won't regret the early alarm!
🚶♂️ Walk the National Mall
Enjoy a scenic hour-long walk from the Supreme Court to the Lincoln Memorial, taking in other sites.
📸 Ramp Impact
A large ramp is currently in place for accessibility, which may affect classic front-facing photos.
🏛️ Architectural Marvel
Appreciate the marble and stone from across the US, symbolizing reunification.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunrise Serenity
Visit at sunrise for a peaceful experience and stunning light. You won't regret the early alarm!
🚶♂️ Walk the National Mall
Enjoy a scenic hour-long walk from the Supreme Court to the Lincoln Memorial, taking in other sites.
📸 Ramp Impact
A large ramp is currently in place for accessibility, which may affect classic front-facing photos.
🏛️ Architectural Marvel
Appreciate the marble and stone from across the US, symbolizing reunification.
🤫 Hidden History
Discover a secret room beneath the memorial, part of its massive foundation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lincoln Memorial for its inspiring atmosphere, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views of the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument. The sheer scale of the Lincoln statue and the powerful inscriptions of his speeches leave a lasting impression. While some note current construction with a large ramp, the overall experience is described as deeply moving and a must-visit landmark in D.C.
"The Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. is one of the most inspiring and memorable landmarks I have ever visited. The moment you arrive, the scale and presence of the monument immediately capture your attention. Abraham Lincoln’s massive seated statue feels larger than life, not just in size but also in meaning. It is a place that reminds you of the struggles and triumphs that shaped America and the vision of one of its greatest leaders.
The memorial’s architecture is stunning, with tall white marble columns surrounding the statue. On the walls, you can find inscriptions of Lincoln’s most famous speeches, including the Gettysburg Address and the Second Inaugural Address. Reading these words while standing in front of the monument is a powerful experience, filled with history, reflection, and inspiration.
From the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, the view is simply breathtaking. The Reflecting Pool stretches out gracefully toward the Washington Monument, creating one of the most iconic and photographed scenes in the entire city. Visiting during sunrise or sunset adds a magical glow to the experience and makes it even more unforgettable.
What stood out most to me was the peaceful and respectful atmosphere. Visitors from all over the world gather here, and yet there is a shared sense of quiet admiration. It is a place to pause, reflect, and appreciate the values of freedom, unity, and equality that Lincoln dedicated his life to.
A must-visit in Washington, D.C., the Lincoln Memorial truly leaves a lasting impression."
sai kiran
"You feel something when walking up to this monument. It's obviously beautiful but seeing it up close, the stone work, the detail outside and inside. When you look at Lincoln statue, you feel empowered almost. Then looking out from the direction Lincoln is facing seeing the water and the Washington monument. It's cool. Only thing right now during my visit was the giant ramp during construction, got in the way of a perfect photo from the very front. But still plenty of other areas to get nice pics."
Marvin Glas
"A Powerful Experience with Great People and Stunning Views
The Lincoln Memorial is absolutely breathtaking — both in design and in meaning. The architecture is stunning, and the view from the top of the steps looking over the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument is unforgettable.
What made my visit even better was the kindness of the staff. My phone battery died while I was there, and one of the staff members kindly helped me find a power socket to charge it. That small act of help made a big difference — truly shows how respectful and welcoming the people working here are!
The whole area is clean, well-kept, and very moving to walk through. Whether you're into history, photography, or just want a peaceful moment, this place is a must-visit.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Highly recommend stopping here — both for the views and the experience"
Naveen Jetti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lincoln Memorial is located at the western end of the National Mall. You can walk from other monuments like the Washington Monument or the National Museum of Natural History. Public transportation options include the Metro (Foggy Bottom-GWU station is a 20-minute walk) or various bus routes. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services or taxis.
Limited paid parking is available along Ohio Drive SW and in designated lots on the National Mall. However, parking can be scarce, especially during peak season. It's often easier to use public transport or ride-sharing.
Yes, you can walk from the Supreme Court down the National Mall to the Lincoln Memorial. It's about an hour-long walk and offers views of many other significant landmarks along the way.
Yes, several bus routes stop near the National Mall. The closest Metro station is Foggy Bottom-GWU, which is about a 20-minute walk away. Consider using a ride-sharing service for more direct access.
Many visitors enjoy walking the National Mall to see the monuments. Alternatively, you can use the DC Circulator bus or rent bikes to cover more ground efficiently.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Lincoln Memorial is completely free. You can enter and explore the monument and its grounds without any cost.
The Lincoln Memorial is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, ranger-led programs and visitor services are typically available during daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Lincoln Memorial. It is a public monument managed by the National Park Service and is free for all to enjoy.
While there's no need to book tickets, you can join free ranger-led tours offered by the National Park Service. Check their schedule for availability and times.
Yes, the Lincoln Memorial is open 24/7, allowing for stunning nighttime visits. The illuminated monument offers a different, equally impressive perspective.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the iconic 19-foot marble statue of Abraham Lincoln, as well as inscriptions of his most famous speeches, the Gettysburg Address and the Second Inaugural Address, on the interior walls.
From the steps, you get a breathtaking view of the Reflecting Pool stretching towards the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol building in the distance.
Yes, there is ongoing construction that includes a large ramp for accessibility. This may affect some traditional photo opportunities from the front.
Restroom facilities are available near the Lincoln Memorial, typically located on the lower level or nearby along the National Mall.
It honors the 16th U.S. President, Abraham Lincoln, and symbolizes his role in preserving the nation and ending slavery. The architecture and inscriptions reflect his enduring legacy.
📸 📸 Photography
The steps offer classic shots with the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument. The interior chamber with Lincoln's statue is also a popular spot. Sunrise and sunset provide beautiful lighting.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Lincoln Memorial. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography directly at the statue or inscriptions.
Sunrise is highly recommended for fewer crowds and soft, beautiful light. Sunset also offers a golden glow. Midday can be very crowded and harsh for photos.
While general photography is permitted, professional photography or videography may require permits. Always be respectful of the monument and other visitors.
A large ramp is currently in place, which can obstruct some of the traditional, unobstructed views from the very front of the memorial. Explore different angles to capture unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for a lot of walking on the National Mall. Consider bringing snacks and water, especially during warmer months. While the ramp is helpful for accessibility, younger children might still find the climb up the main steps exciting. The open space around the Reflecting Pool is great for kids to run around (with supervision, of course!).
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The interior, with the imposing statue and inscribed speeches, provides dramatic indoor photography opportunities. Be aware of the current ramp construction, which may require creative framing to achieve unobstructed views from the front. Exploring different angles and times of day can yield unique and stunning results.
🚶♂️ History Buffs
Consider visiting with a ranger-led tour to gain deeper insights into the historical context and hidden details of the memorial. The surrounding National Mall also offers a wealth of historical context with its other monuments and museums.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Symbolism and Hidden Details
Beyond its grand facade, the memorial holds intriguing secrets. Beneath the main chamber lies a vast, unfinished basement, nearly 44,000 square feet, originally intended as the foundation for the memorial. This space, though not publicly accessible, is a testament to the scale of the project and a hidden layer of its history.
Look closely at the interior walls, and you'll find the powerful words of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address etched into the stone. These inscriptions are not merely decorative; they are integral to the memorial's purpose, allowing visitors to connect directly with Lincoln's profound thoughts on democracy, equality, and the nation's future.
Experiencing the Lincoln Memorial: Views and Atmosphere
The view from the memorial's steps is arguably one of the most iconic in Washington D.C. The long, serene Reflecting Pool stretches out before you, leading the eye towards the towering Washington Monument. This vista, especially during sunrise or sunset, creates a magical and unforgettable scene, perfect for reflection and photography.
Despite being a major tourist attraction, many visitors note a peaceful and respectful atmosphere. People from all walks of life gather here, sharing a quiet admiration for the monument and the ideals it represents. It's a place that encourages pause, reflection, and an appreciation for the values of freedom, unity, and equality.
Navigating the Lincoln Memorial: Accessibility and Current Conditions
This ramp, while functional, does alter the traditional view from the front of the memorial, potentially impacting classic photo opportunities. Visitors are advised to be aware of this ongoing construction and explore various vantage points to capture their desired shots.
Despite the construction, the memorial remains a must-visit. The National Park Service works to maintain the site, and information is often available from rangers about the best ways to experience the memorial during this period.
![Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial - Aerial view of Washington, D.C., showing the FDR Memorial in the foreground at Cherry Blossom Festival time. Color transparency by Carol M. Highsmith, [between 1980 and 2006]. Library of Congress Prints & Photographs Division. https://www.loc.gov/resource/highsm.14351/](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.unsplash.com%2Fphoto-1585128993280-9456c19c987d%3Fcrop%3Dentropy%26cs%3Dtinysrgb%26fit%3Dmax%26fm%3Djpg%26ixid%3DM3w3ODc2Nzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxGcmFua2xpbiUyMERlbGFubyUyMFJvb3NldmVsdCUyME1lbW9yaWFsfGVufDB8MHx8fDE3NTg1MzExMjF8MA%26ixlib%3Drb-4.1.0%26q%3D80%26w%3D1080&w=3840&q=75)
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