The Best Route to See the National Park Memorials
If you’re in Washington, D.C. it’s likely you’ll be visiting the National Mall. It’s full of museums, beautiful buildings, and photo ops. If you’re looking at the National Mall from above, you’ll see museums to the east and memorials to the west. This area is known as Memorial Park and is home to several National Park Service locations. Let’s explore the best route for seeing the sites and help maximize your time.
Getting to this area is easy enough with many public transportation or ride share options, but I think the METRO is the best option as the Smithsonian station pops you right up into the mall and then it’s just a short walk to the Washington Monument.
Washington Monument
Knowing where to start is always tricky, but this is a no brainer. The Washington Monument has a small visitors center just to the east of the very tall monument. Go in and grab some information about the park to help with your exploration.
Did you know you can go inside the Washington Monument? That’s right! They have a tour you can get tickets for and experience a really nice view. The park offers advanced ticket sales and same-day. They sell out quickly so advanced planning is a must.
World War II Memorial
Once you’re done at the Washington Monument, you’ll want to head west. As you walk, you’ll see the White House and President’s Park to the North. The World War II Memorial is your next stop. This is a large area so give yourself enough time to take it all in.
Constitution Gardens
Next you’ll head north (from the north side of the monument) to Constitution Gardens. One of the great things about the park is the signage. They have many directional signs so you’ll always know where you’re going. This area travels around a small pond and you can see the Declaration of Independence Memorial here. Now, you have be thinking, “this already seems like a lot of walking.” You’d be right! So, if that’s not your thing, consider a bike share service and ride around the park instead.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Continue west and you’ll find Vietnam Veterans Memorial. This is a beautiful area where you’ll often find veterans of the war searching for their fellow soldiers names on the wall. It’s a place for reflection and remembrance. You can download the Wall Mobile Tour App to add to your experience. Don’t forget to stop at the Vietnam Women’s Memorial while you’re there.
Lincoln Memorial
You’ve seen glimpses of this memorial as you’ve been traveling along the paved path in the park. It’s hard to miss the Lincoln Memorial as it is one of the most iconic places in the park. When you walk inside, Abraham Lincoln greets you, but it’s important not to miss all the things inside the building. Iconic quotes and speeches from the man himself.
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Once you’ve grabbed a photo with honest Abe, head southeast to the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Here you’ll see a depiction of soldiers walking through a field and read about how “Freedom is not Free.” Names of soldiers from this war can be found on the circular walls surrounded by beautiful trees.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
When making your way to MLK, Jr. Memorial, you’ll be on a side walk next to Independence Ave. You’ll be traveling east. Cross the street once you see the sign for the memorial and head south. This brings you to the waters of Tidal Basin. The memorial faces the water and offers a quiet time with your thoughts.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Continue southeast around Tidal Basin until you come to FDR Memorial. This is one of the more unique areas in the park. There is a visitor center here with information, souvenirs, restrooms, and food you can purchase. Inside, you’ll see the former presidents wheelchair. Outside, you’ll be able to walk through some of the events during FDR’s three terms in office.
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Keep on the path near the water and walk under the Japanese Cherry Trees on your way to Jefferson Memorial. If you’re there at just the right time in spring, they’ll be in full bloom and so beautiful. When you arrive at the memorial, head inside and see Jefferson surrounded by our nation’s history on the walls. This completes your journey around Memorial Park as you head north again and find yourself back at the Washington Monument.
MUST SEE sights near Memorial Park
Consider the Wonders is a travel blog intended for entertainment purposes only. We are not RV, travel, or hiking experts and are not making recommendations. These are our opinions and you should do your own research and make your own decisions.
Consider the Wonders is not affiliated with the National Park Service.
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