national mall tour dc

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National Mall Guide and Things to Do

This post is a guide to things to do on the National Mall in Washington, DC, written by the tour guides of DC by Foot.

With daily National Mall tours for over a decade, we know a lot about America's Front Lawn!

We include tips on how to get here, where to park, on choosing museums as well as a self-guided tour.  

• What and Where is the National Mall
• Museums on the Mall
• Attractions on the Mall
• Where to Eat
• Guided + Self-Guided Tours
• Other Things to Do in DC

Advice about visiting the National Mall is a common question in our Washington DC Travel Tips Facebook Group - where our tour guides, local experts, and over 50K travelers who've just visited share advice!

WHAT AND WHERE IS THE NATIONAL MALL?

The National Mall, sometimes called America's Front Yard, is basically a long, rectangular public park.

It stretches from the U.S. Capitol Building on its east end to the Lincoln Memorial on its west end.

Its current form comes largely from the Senate Park Commission, sometimes known as the McMillan Commission, who submitted their plan in 1902, expanding upon Pierre L'Enfant's original vision.

Here you'll find museums and memorials - but also recreational sports leagues, festivals, concerts, protests, and more.

The best way to see the National Mall is on a our walking tour!

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How long is the National Mall?

It is 1.8 miles (3 km) long by .3 miles (.5 km) wide.

It is bordered by Constitution Ave. on its north side and Independence Ave. on its south side. It covers 146 acres (.59 km).

There are really two halves on the National Mall - the side with the museums, which stretches from the U.S. Capitol Building to the Washington Monument.

Museums on the National Mall

• National Air and Space Museum

National Gallery of Art

National museum of the american indian.

• National Museum of Natural History
• National Museum of American History
• Hirshhorn Art Museum
• National Museum of African American History and Culture

Smithsonian Castle

• Freer & Sackler Galleries & African Art Museum

and the side with the national memorials:

Washington Monument

• World War II Memorial
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Korean War Veterans Memorial

Lincoln memorial.

Not all of the memorials nor all of the museums are found in these two sections, but this is a good reference point to work from.  

Is it free to see the National Mall?

Yes, it is free and open to visitors 24 hours a day.

When is the best time to visit the National Mall?

The best time to visit can really depend on what you want to see/do. The National Mall is open all day and night as a public park.

• Museums close at 5 p.m.
• Memorial restrooms are usually closed by midnight.
• Sunset and moonlight are some of the busiest times at the memorials - for a reason, they are also some of the most beautiful.
• Sunrise is usually far less crowded (except during Cherry Blossom peak on the Tidal Basin!)
• There is very little to eat ON the National Mall except a few refreshment stands and maybe some food trucks so mealtime is not always the best.

Can you walk around the National Mall?

Yes. Walking, jogging, or biking around the half or the entire National Mall is a popular pastime for locals and visitors.

TIP: Bring your National Parks Passport with you when you visit, as there are 16 National Park Service sites where you can get stamps.

How to Get to the National Mall?

Washington, DC isn't really all that large and the National Mall is a big chunk of the downtown area, so it's not a hard place to find.

Depending on where you're coming from you can use many forms of transportation to get to the National Mall. 

However, we strongly recommend that you take mass transit if you are not planning on using a hop-on-hop-off bus . 

Where you are headed can make the difference between which mode of transport will best suit you.

DC Metro Stations on the National Mall

Most visitors to the National Mall will take the subway.

There are 6 subway stations that each service part of the National Mall. Below the map, we have listed the stops and the attractions that they service. 

Be sure to read our guide and video on how to navigate the DC Metro System .   

TIP : During the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival, many on-street parking spots and some roads are shut down, making Metro an even more appealing option.

The nearest Metro Stations to the various sites on the National Mall are:

• Federal Center SW: Capitol Building, National Botanical Gardens
• L'Enfant Plaza: Air & Space Museum, Hirshhorn Museum
• Archives : National Gallery of Art, Pennsylvania Avenue
• Smithsonian : Smithsonian Castle, Natural History Museum, American History Museum, Washington Monument
• Federal Triangle : American History Museum, Washington Monument (and the start of our National Mall Tour )
• McPherson Square : White House, WWII Memorial
• Foggy Bottom : Lincoln Memorial

DC Circulator Bus

The Circulator Bus is a special public bus designed in part for tourists to DC.

The Circulator is $1 per person, no matter where or when you hop on.

This new route will take you around the National Mall and Tidal Basin and back to Union Station.

It services all of the major stops on the National Mall, however, it's not the most convenient to get to, unless you are staying near Union Station.  

TIP: Take our self-guided Bus tour using the Circulator .

For more convenience, consider one of the commercial hop-on-hop-off buses that provide commentary and make stops in many hotel areas.

Circulator Operating Hours:

Summer (April 1 – September 30) - 7 am – 8 pm (weekdays), 9 am – 8 pm (weekends) Winter (October 1 – March 31) - 7 am – 7 pm (weekdays), 9 am – 7 pm (weekends)

Parking On the National Mall

There is limited parking on the National Mall. Spots are available on:

• Madison Drive (in front of American History, Natural History, and National Gallery of Art)
• Jefferson Drive (in front of Air & Space, Hirshhorn, and Smithsonian Castle).

On-street parking around the National Mall is restricted during morning and evening rush hours along Constitution Ave and Independence Ave.

• You canNOT park until 9:30 a.m. in the mornings or between 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. in the evening.

It is also limited to 3 hours - total. So don't expect that moving your car a few inches forward will thwart the meter maids.

These are paid spots. You can use the parking machines along the road or use the Parkmobile App.

Where do our guides park for our National Mall tour?

Most guides take public transportation to get to the National Mall when we lead tours here, but now and then parking is necessary. Canden prefers to park along Ohio Drive, near the MLK Memorial - there are usually spots along that section! John likes the park just in front of the Einstein Memorial along Constitution Ave NW. Dan suggests avoiding the National Mall parking hassle and looking for street parking off 17th Street by the DAR building - no rush hour restrictions.

Hains Point/East Potomac Park: There are 320 spots on Hains Point, near the Jefferson Memorial ( map ).

This is a great option if you don't mind walking as it is more than a mile to the Smithsonian Museums.

The best option if you plan to drive into the city is to park in one of the many garages in the area.

The fees are worth avoiding getting towed and ticketed!

You can find and reserve a parking spot ahead of time in a parking garage in the National Mall area through a service called SpotHero .

They offer a bunch of reasonably priced parking options on their website, and the entire process makes parking pretty easy.

Other Ways to Travel:

• There are taxi stands around the National Mall, though they are very easy to hail around any of the memorials/museums.
• Uber/Lyft is very popular in DC. 
• Pedicabs can be found all over the National Mall. Most of the drivers work for tips - so keep that in mind based on how far you're going and how many people you have!
• Biking is a popular way to travel to the National Mall. If you have your own bike, there are bike racks at many of the memorials. There are also many Capitol Bikeshare  stations in the area.
• On Foot! That is our preferred way to travel. Starting at the Capitol Building, it is one mile (1.6 km) to the Washington Monument and another to Lincoln - those two miles are filled with memorials and museums and great sites to see.

MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS ON THE NATIONAL MALL

A lot of people wonder what's in the National Mall, and the truth is that there are a lot of interesting attractions in the area.

The biggest tip for your museum-heavy visit to DC is that there is not only one Smithsonian museum.

The Smithsonian Institution is made up of 20 world-class museums, and a research center (the National Zoo).

And 11 of the most visited Smithsonian Museums are on the Mall. 

Other museums, like the National Archives and International Spy Museum , are further away from the Mall, so do not appear here.

There are also several museums that are only affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution or are completely independent. We list these all below. 

Our most suggested thing to do on the National Mall is to join us for one of our walking tours .

We explore the memorials and discuss the history of the National Mall.

Air and Space (National Mall)

The Air and Space Museum is probably the most visited museum in the city, and very popular with kids.

Here you can find the Wright Brothers' Kitty Hawk Flyer, the Apollo 11 Command Module, Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis, and a moon rock you can touch. 

There is another building for the Air and Space Museum called the Annex, which is located near Dulles Airport, about an hour's drive out of the city.

There you can find the Enola Gay and one of the Space Shuttles.  

American History Museum

Within the American History Museum, you'll find a collection of gowns from the First Ladies, Julia Child's kitchen, one of the muppets, and the actual flag that flew over Ft. McHenry: The Star-Spangled Banner. 

This is a uniquely American museum.

Natural History Museum

If you're picturing a giant T-Rex in the center, that's New York. We have an elephant in the rotunda!

You can see the fossils of some of the great American dinosaurs, as well as ancient mummies, a white rhino shot by President Teddy Roosevelt, and the Hope Diamond.

National Museum of African American History & Culture

This incredible museum is also incredibly popular but you may be able to visit without tickets during certain times.

The NMAAHC is dedicated to the history, culture, and life of African Americans and includes museum exhibits on slavery and the fight to end it, artifacts and stories from the Underground Railroad, Jim Crow era, and accomplishments of black Americans throughout American history.

The section on segregation is particularly moving and the pop culture exhibits are a popular stop.

This is one of the newer Smithsonian Museums and focuses on Native Americans of the Western Hemisphere.

Its sister museum is in New York City.

The staff at the museum are incredibly knowledgeable and you can learn a lot about the beliefs, languages, and culture of various Native American tribes.

Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden

This contemporary art museum features works by Picasso, Matisse, and Pollack as well as exhibitions of more modern artists.

The sculpture garden has two parts - one just in front of the Hirshhorn and one across the Mall, which is actually part of the National Gallery of Art.

You will find Yoko Ono's Wish Tree, which contributions from around the world, and Rodin's (think... the Thinker) Burghers of Calais.

If you've seen Night at the Museum II: Battle of the Smithsonian, this beautiful building will look familiar.

Think of it more as a visitor center where you can get a map and information about the institution that started it all.

You can also pay your respects to James Smithson, who is interred near the Mall entrance of the building.

Freer and Sackler Galleries

The Freer & Sackler Galleries make up the Asian Art Collection.

African Art Museum

Just across the garden from the Asian Art Galleries and houses the largest public collection of African art in the country.

Both the Freer/Sackler and the African Art Museums are located behind the Smithsonian Castle.

While this is not technically a Smithsonian, the National Gallery of Art is a non-ticketed, open-to-the-public museums just like the Smithsonian.

There are two wings: East (Contemporary) and West (Traditional) - connected below ground with a beautiful walkway and underground waterfall.

Highlights include a Calder mobile, self-portraits of Rembrandt and Van Gogh, and the only Leonardo Da Vinci in the Americas! 

The National Gallery of Art sculpture garden next to the museum showcases the contemporary sculpture collection, including a Calder and a Lichtenstein.

Holocaust Memorial Museum

Also, not officially on the Mall but just across the street. We have an extensive Guide to Visiting the USHMM.

LANDMARKS ON THE NATIONAL MALL

U.S. Capitol Building

You can learn all about the Capitol and get tickets inside the building on our Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Tour .

Bordering the east end, the National Mall stops at the West Lawn of the Capitol Building.

Of course, you can get tickets to visit the Capitol on your own. Get tips on visiting the Supreme Court and the Library of Congress as well.

A Carousel was originally added to the National Mall as part of the Smithsonian's Arts & Industries Building, but this is the second carousel here.

It has its own history and was a part of the Civil Rights Movement when the carousel was part of the segregated Gwynn Oak Park in Maryland. 

Is the White House on the National Mall?

Officially no.

You can see the Southside of the White House from the National Mall, which is why we talk about it on our  National Mall Walking Tour, but you can get much closer by going to the North Side.

Or get even closer by taking a public tour of the White House.

WHERE TO EAT ON THE NATIONAL MALL

Don't expect any restaurants on the Mall that aren't part of the museums, meaning you'll need to go through security and enter the building for the food court and won't be able to take food out of the food court.

By the Museums

• American History : The Stars & Stripes Cafeteria has a standard pizza, hamburgers, and salads.
• Natural History : This will have bit more variety and sometimes has special ethnic cuisine that complements an exhibit.
• National Gallery of Art : You'll find similar fare to American History; pizza, chicken fingers but some more specialty paninis, and less-fried options.
• Air & Space : The Air & Space Museum's food options are currently being renovated.

The best place to eat on the National Mall is the American Indian Museum, Mitsitam Cafe .

It features seasonal, local, Meso-American fare. Expect to pay museum cafeteria prices but the food is very good and the cafeteria is very large.

Nearby is L'Enfant Plaza Food Court , entrance located on D St SW between 9th and 10th St NW, but it is only open for weekday lunches.

Don't get this confused with the L'Enfant Plaza Metro Station - which isn't actually at the plaza.

The Food Court is easily accessible via L'Enfant Plaza Road which is directly behind Smithsonian Castle ( map ).

Also available for weekday lunches, Maryland Ave SW between 7th St SW and 6th St SW, just behind the Air and Space Museum is usually a haven for local food trucks.

TIP : June through August can be quite warm, so make sure to stay hydrated.

And we're not talking hot dog stands - these are gourmet, excellent meal options for a fraction of museum cafeteria prices.

The only downside is you have to eat outside but you'll see lots of people having makeshift picnics in the many grassy areas nearby.

You can also, surprisingly, get a great meal in the US Department of Agriculture's cafeteria.

A hidden gem when it comes to cafeterias in DC is the Department of Agriculture.

Now, we understand that going to a federal building's office cafeteria might not be high on your list but this one is an exception.

The food is great and not too expensive and you'll see some amazing WWII-era art along the way.

All you need to enter the building is a photo ID and you'll get a visitor's badge.

Lunch is 11 am - 3 pm and the entrance is on C Street SW about a block from the USHMM.

By the Memorials

If you find yourself near the iconic monuments and hungry, the only options are the refreshment stands.

These are more than just hot dogs - there are sandwiches, salads, and a variety of options.

You'll find the most options to eat at the Lincoln Memorial/Korean Memorial refreshment stand on the Independence Ave. side of the Lincoln Memorial.

There are smaller refreshment stands to eat at near the Jefferson Memorial and between the WWII Memorial and Vietnam Veterans in the Constitution Gardens.

If you want a sit-down restaurant/cafe, the Foggy Bottom area is about a 15-minute walk from Lincoln Memorial.

Just take 23rd St NW, the road that literally comes straight out of the side of Lincoln Memorial, and walk up the hill.

Here you'll find pizza shops, burger joints, salad bars, and Whole Foods.

And don't forget services like Uber Eats, which will bring food to you wherever you are.

TOURS OF THE NATIONAL MALL

Of course, we think the best way to visit the memorials on the National Mall and Tidal Basin is on one of  our pay-what-you-wish walking tours .

We offer National Mall 2-hour walking tours during the day and evening for a moonlit option and a 4-hour National Mall and Tidal Basin tour nearly every day of the week!

Don't want to travel on foot? 

Many people opt for either a hop-on-hop-off bus tour or an all-inclusive full-service bus tour. Learn about all of the  bus tour options  available to you in DC.

TIP: If you are considering a  tourist discount pass  for your time in DC, then keep in mind that many of the bus tour options mentioned in the link above are included for free with the purchases of any of them.

Is it free to see the monuments in Washington DC?

Yes. Not only are they free, but many are open to visitation 24 hours a day.

Take our  self-guided Bus tour using the Circulator .

SELF-GUIDED TOUR OF THE NATIONAL MALL

If you cannot take our walking tours or prefer to wander on your own, use our GPS-enabled audio tour or our self-guided National Mall Tour below. 

Download our National Mall Audio Tour . We also offer several other self-guided audio tours in the app.

Use the directions and guides below to visit these sites on a self-guided National Mall (And Tidal Basin) tour.

• White House South Lawn
• WWII Memorial

Albert Einstein Memorial

• Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

George mason memorial, thomas jefferson memorial.

From here take any of the sidewalks leading west towards the Lincoln Memorial you see in the distance.

It is only 1 mile away but there are a lot of things to see between!  

How to Get Tickets to the Washington Monument

View of the White House South Lawn

• How to Visit the White House

You can get a much better view of the White House up close, but from here you can see the South Lawn.

Here is where Marine One, the presidential helicopter takes off and lands.

The White House is a direct line with the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the round-columned building across the Tidal Basin.

We encourage you to walk around to see the Jefferson Memorial in person but this is a good view if you don't plan on doing that!

Be careful crossing 17th Street, it's one of the few roads you'll have to cross but since these are not intersections some cars often don't realize they need to stop for the red light!

Stand in the center of the WWII Memorial facing the Lincoln Memorial.

You'll see a large plaque explaining why this location for the memorial was chosen.

National WWII Memorial

• Guide to WWII Memorial

Restrooms: You'll find these in the building behind the Ranger Station.

There is also a brown octagonal building between WWII and Vietnam Memorials that is what we call emergency-only restrooms.

They are there if you need them, but don't expect much.

As you exit the WWII Memorial via the Atlantic Archway to head towards the Lincoln Memorial - DON'T take the sidewalk leading along the Reflecting Pool unless you want to extend your walk.

The quickest way to the next memorial is via Constitution Gardens, the windy pathway to your right.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial & Vietnam Veterans Women's Memorial

• Vietnam Veterans Memorial Visitor's Guide

Restrooms: You'll find these in the basement of the Lincoln Memorial.

From the flagpole, backtrack along the sidewalk keeping the memorial to your right, and walk past it to the corner of Henry Bacon Drive and Constitution Ave NW.

Cross Bacon Drive and then take the crosswalk on your right to cross Constitution Ave NW.

The entrance to the Einstein Memorial is a little further up the road so DON'T turn right on the sidewalk once you cross the street, keep walking until you see the sign.

This memorial was placed in front of the National Academy of Sciences in 1979.

It's the only memorial where it is encouraging to climb on - owing to how huggable he looks! Notice his nose is a different color because everyone reaches up to rub it.

Looking at the ground, those small dots you see are an exact layout of the stars and constellations from the night the memorial was dedicated.

If you stand in the center (you'll notice many lines leading to that point) and face the statue - say something to Einstein.

While it will sound normal to everyone else, it will sound distorted to you!

Cross back over Constitution Avenue NW and head towards the Lincoln Memorial. You should be able to see it from here!

Restrooms: You'll find these in the basement of the memorial.

With the Abraham Lincoln Memorial behind you, enjoy the view down the Reflecting Pool (Jenn-ny!).

You can see the Washington Monument, Capitol, Library of Congress, and Smithsonian Castle all in this view.

Head towards the trees on your right. You should start to see a scene of lifelike statues walking through the trees.

As you exit the memorial, head towards the left to cross Independence Ave NW.

The crosswalk here is in two parts - to cross westbound and then eastbound lanes so you'll have to press the button to cross twice.

Turn left after you cross the street and walk along the intramural fields until you reach the MLK Memorial.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Restrooms: You'll find these in the back of the Bookstore building, entrance outside.

Make your way to the water and take the sidewalk to your right walking along the Tidal Basin until you reach the steps.

Take the steps into the FDR Memorial but instead of going directly in, turn right at the top of the steps towards to building.

If you make your way around to the front of the building, that is the true entrance to the memorial.

Restrooms: You'll find these at the beginning and end of the memorial.

There are two paths to take. If you exit the memorial past the bathroom, that sidewalk will lead you to the Inlet Bridge.

You can also make your way back to the water and walk along the water to get to Inlet Bridge. These two pathways will merge as you cross the bridge.

Keep an eye on the right - that is the Potomac River and the Pentagon in the distance.

After the bridge, you'll see a seated statue across the street, cross the road to visit the George Mason Memorial.

This memorial is often overlooked as George Mason is referred to as the Forgotten Founder.

A representative of Virginia who encouraged the addition of individual rights to the Constitution, you can learn more about George Mason's role in our nation's beginnings at this memorial.

Cross back over the street towards Inlet Bridge but turn right so you don't actually walk back across the bridge.

The sidewalk splits and one follows the road (often where you see rows of coaches parked) and one heads towards the water - take the one near the water to walk around to the Jefferson.

To make your way back to the National Mall or nearby Metro, follow the sidewalk along the water past the Jefferson Memorial.

It will merge with 15th St SW and you can walk past the Bureau of Engraving and Printing & the Holocaust Memorial Museum .

You're now back on the Mall at the start by the Washington Monument.

The nearest Metro is the Smithsonian Metro Station (Blue/Orange/Silver).

If you turn right on Independence Ave SW from 15th St SW, the station is on that side of the street in two blocks at the corner of 12th St SW.

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PLAN YOUR TRIP

Guide To Visiting The National Mall

Unmoved for over two centuries and spanning some 1,000 acres that stretch from the base of the U.S. Capitol building to the banks of the Potomac River, is the great National Mall. This sprawling mass of manicured lawn is a symbol of the strength and values of the American people not only because it is home to some of DC’s most iconic monuments but because of the massive public events that have taken place here over the past 200 years. Presidential inaugurations, mass demonstrations, concerts, public addresses, parades and many more milestone events have taken place on this esteemed piece of real estate. In short, a visit to Washington DC is synonymous with a visit to the National Mall.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Here’s a list of monuments , museums and other sites found along the National Mall for you to visit while on your trip to Washington DC.

National Mall

Smithsonian castle, arts and industries building, national museum of african american history and culture, arthur m. sackler gallery, smithsonian national museum of african art, hirshhorn museum, smithsonian national air and space museum, national museum of the american indian, united states botanic garden, united states capitol, national gallery of art, smithsonian national museum of natural history, washington monument, the white house, world war ii memorial, lincoln memorial, lincoln memorial reflecting pool, martin luther king, jr. memorial, korean war veterans memorial, vietnam veterans memorial, constitution gardens, united states holocaust memorial museum.

• A National Mall

Main Attractions

THE WASHINGTON MONUMENT

View this post on Instagram Our friend @amandapleaze13 hopped aboard our trolley for a tour of the city and experienced this stunning view from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. 🏛 A post shared by Old Town Trolley Tours (@oldtowntrolley) on Dec 6, 2016 at 9:37am PST

At 555’ tall, this is the single tallest structure in the city. In fact, no building within the city limits is permitted to exceed the height of this giant obelisk, a towering symbol of George Washington, the first President of the United States and its most celebrated revolutionary general. Made of marble, granite and sandstone, the monument is surrounded by 50 American flags representing each of the states. It has sweeping views of DC and an elevator to the structure’s apex, or pyramidion, allowing you to see as far as 30 miles! Or, you can climb 897 steps. We highly recommend the former.

THE U.S. CAPITOL BUILDING

View this post on Instagram Another gorgeous day at the Capitol. 🇺🇸 A post shared by Old Town Trolley Tours (@oldtowntrolley) on Oct 14, 2016 at 9:25am PDT

The place that was nearly burned to a crisp by hostile British forces during the War of 1812 and where legislators hash it out and sign bills into law today, the U.S. Capitol was built as a result of a design contest. After winning a cool $500 bucks, architect William Thornton went on to design arguably the most recognizable building in all of DC. (Minus the big dome, which wasn’t built until the 1850s.) Because of increased security, freely roaming the Capitol Building is a no-no, so you’ll have to arrange for a guided tour. Contact the Capitol Visitor Center for more information and for passes to see the wheels of democracy churn with a sit-in on the daily business conducted in the Senate and House galleries.

SMITHSONIAN MUSEUMS

View this post on Instagram Dinosaur fossils, skeletons and objects of wonder. #smithsonian ##smithsoniannaturalhistorymuseum A post shared by Joey Patterson (@joeypattersonjax) on May 11, 2019 at 10:07am PDT

This federal institution has multiple museums scattered throughout Washington, DC., 10 of which are located on the National Mall. With 17 museums, several galleries and a zoo, 2-3 days still might not be enough to see it all at a reasonable pace, so be selective. With so many amazing things to see, that’s easier said than done. If machines with wings that go really fast pique your imagination, then head over to the National Air & Space Museum for a chronicle of the history of aviation and space travel. For you art buffs, trace the evolution of American art from the Colonial days to the present with the grandiose retrospective found at the Smithsonian American Art Museum & Renwick Gallery. All of these museums contain national treasures that tell the story of a people and a nation since its inception.

U.S. BOTANIC GARDEN

View this post on Instagram Our higan cherry (Prunus subhirtella) in Bartholdi Park is full of blooms and shining in the spring sunshine A post shared by U.S. Botanic Garden (@usbotanicgarden) on Mar 28, 2019 at 9:10am PDT

Centuries ago, George Washington had a vision for the capital city of the United States that included a botanic garden that would demonstrate and promote the importance of plants to the young nation. Established by the U.S. Congress in 1820, the U.S. Botanic Garden is one of the oldest botanic gardens in North America that is a living plant museum informing visitors about the importance of plants and their cultivation to the continued well-being of humans coexisting in a fragile ecosystem. This indoor-outdoor research facility has myriad examples of plants and flowers from every conceivable climate and part of the world. From roses to orchids, the rainforest to the Mid-Atlantic, rare and endangered plants to the latest in home gardens, there’s always something beautiful in bloom to admire.

MORE ABOUT ATTRACTIONS ON THE MALL

Washington dc attractions.

Getting Around

OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS

View this post on Instagram Monument Monday’s 🏛 A post shared by Old Town Trolley Tours (@oldtowntrolley) on May 7, 2018 at 3:30pm PDT

With 30 years in the biz, Old Town Trolley’s ubiquitous green and orange, state-of-the-art vehicles provide the best vantage point to catch a great many of the important monuments and landmarks in and around the National Mall. Covering over 100 points of interest, this hop-on hop-off, fully-narrated tour will take you places like the Jefferson Memorial, the FDR Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial and, as the only tour operator authorized to do so, to the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery. Furthermore, since the DC area can be rather congested with traffic, parking can become a troublesome issue when you to want to tackle the mall on your own. With this tour, not only will you see the most iconic landmarks but you won’t have to worry about parking your car.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Trolley Tickets

Old Town Trolley Tours is pleased to take you past the National Mall as part of our tour!

TOUR DURATION

Tour length is 3-4 hours and includes all stops.

Welcome Center at 1001 E St NW

DEPARTURE TIME

Go to  Old Town Trolley Schedule .

*Tour length times may vary depending upon road conditions or traffic.

Click on  parking information .

ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES

Reservations for accessible trolley must be arranged 24 hours in advance. Go to  accessibility services  for more information.

View this post on Instagram Over this weather?!? Us too! But it’s nothing a little barbecue can’t fix! #hillcountrybbq A post shared by Hill Country Barbecue Market (@hillcountrybbq) on May 14, 2019 at 8:06am PDT

Spending the day walking any mall is sure to bring about a grumbling stomach; but when it happens to be America’s Front Yard, you can be sure that a respite at one of the area’s tasty eating establishments is definitely in order.

SHAKE SHACK

This notch-above-your-average burger joint has been satiating the appetites of burger lovers for years now and there happens to be one right nearby. It’s easy on the wallet. Don’t forget a side of the crinkle fries.

BANTAM KING

When you love a great bowl of ramen and you absolutely must have one now, head to this noodle shop in Chinatown for a deeply satisfying bowl of the good stuff.

HILL COUNTRY BARBECUE MARKET

The best darn smoked meats outside of Central Texas. This place is modeled after one of the meccas of Texas-style BBQ so the brisket is out of this world; but be sure to try some of their homegrown, out-of-the-box offerings as well.

OLD EBBITT GRILL

For a taste of old Washington DC, pay this mahogany wood-accented eating house a visit. Enjoy classic, well-prepared American fare with half off oysters during happy hour.

View this post on Instagram In the District to see the cherry blossoms? Stop by #CityCenterDC to see how we’re in bloom. 🌸 We invite you to take photos of our spring installation by using the hashtag #CCDCinBloom. #SpringInstallation #PalmerAlley #CherryBlossoms #MyDCCool #DowntownDC #IGDC #VisitWashingtonDC (📷 credit: @leadinglatte) A post shared by CityCenterDC (@citycenterdc) on Apr 6, 2019 at 8:08am PDT

When we go on vacation, we buy things. Whether it’s because there’s an item you can only find at a certain place or whether you want a keepsake of your trip, we love to shop in new and different places. When you’re ready to put that credit card through its paces and grab some new merch, here are the best places to do it around the National Mall.

WHITE HOUSE GIFTS

For things unapologetically patriotic, this store is the whole red, white and blue! T-shirts, jerseys, hats, commemorative coins, novelties and more can all be found right here and, with a purchase of over $50, you get a free picture posing in a replica of the oval office!

CityCenterDC

This mammoth, mixed-use complex is your go-to for luxury shopping, dining and condo living if you’ve got the means and, in the Fall of 2019, they’ll be opening up a modern, grand hotel.

L’ENFANT PLAZA

The new L’Enfant Plaza showcases a stunning three-story glass gateway entrance, 40+ restaurants and shops, an outdoor square, more retail, and enhanced office space to enliven this popular destination just two blocks from the National Mall.

Major Events Throughout the Year

View this post on Instagram The National Cherry Blossom Festival comes to a close this weekend. Three weeks of celebrations is capped off with the most exciting of them all: The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. Tickets are still available to experience the magic of this dazzling event at nationalcherryblossomfestival.org 📷: Ron Engle #MyDCcool #SpringBlossomsHere A post shared by Washington DC (@visitwashingtondc) on Apr 10, 2019 at 6:01pm PDT

Here are the annual events that get folks flocking to the Nation’s Capital:

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY

Celebrated on the third Monday every January, the Freedom Choir performs a free concert at the Kennedy Center. The African American Civil War Museum also hosts an annual wreath laying ceremony at the African American Civil War Memorial in the U Street Corridor.

NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL PARADE

This event usually runs from late March to mid-April. The parade route runs 10 blocks along Constitution Avenue showcasing bands, floats, dancers, singers and celebrities, many decked out in pink, the theme color in honor of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

H STREET FESTIVAL

This festival in September is a high-energy block party with live bands and beer tents; but it’s best known for the dozens of ethnic eateries that participate in this friendly gathering. Neighborhood artists sell their DC-centric merchandise as well.

NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

The tree lighting is hosted by the National Park Service in President’s Park on the grounds of the White House. The switch is flipped for the first time in early December, followed by an opening concert. The tree is lit each night after that, with performances each evening.

#OLDTOWNTROLLEY

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The National Mall Tour

• Washington Monument
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• Lincoln Memorial

• Learn about how America's capital city memorializes critical moments and characters throughout history
• A local historian leads your Private Tour of the National Mall

• You want to connect to a deeper level of history to frame the rest of your trip
• You’re hoping to discover the city through the eyes of a local expert
• You're a history lover wanting to follow in the footsteps of famous historical figures
• The tour starts outside the Botanical Garden, then visits the main sites along the National Mall and ends at the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial. 
• Time spent and the actual venues visited can vary per guide and depending on the client's interest and pace.
• This tour will only cover external visits to the monuments, so no entrance fees are included.
• If you're keen to expand your knowledge about the National Mall before your tour, explore our online lectures and audio guides . 
• This is a very walking-intensive tour, but covers almost entirely flat terrain and all the major monuments and memorials of the National Mall are wheelchair accessible.

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ .

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Signature Tours of DC

Signature Tours, your guide to DC

Washington DC Moonlit Tour of the National Mall & Stops at 10 Sites

Tour Details

Visit the monuments of Washington DC illuminated at night, the best time to visit the monuments!

Wouldn’t you like to explore Washington DC DC Under the Stars? We’re offering you an exclusive 3 hour tour of the city under the moon and stars with our  DC Night Tours package. This is your opportunity to see the city in all its magnificent beauty in the night time lights. It’s like a fairly tale dream come to life.

Tour Ticket Upgrades Tour ticket upgrades are reserved according to availability. If you purchase an upgrade, please ask your tour guide or driver for your upgrade when being checked in. Washington Monument Tickets are typically reserved for 3:30pm however time slots provided may vary. Museums are open 10am-4:30pm. Customer must honor the time reserved on their ticket. Night Tour tickets are reserved for the following day. Any questions please call before reserving.

What you get on this tour

• Join our expert, engaging guide for DC’s top tour by bus, and see the most famous monuments lit up at their magical nighttime best.   Experience an unforgettable and informative insider’s look at DC under the stars!
• 7:30pm – 10:30pm

Adult: $64 Child: $54

Child is 12 & under Children under 2 free

Air & Space Museum Package

Adult: $89  child: $79.

Includes Air & Space Museum ticket. Ticket is reserved for the following day. Please ask your guide or driver for your upgraded ticket when being checked in. Ticket Upgrades are self-guided.  In the event that the site is closed or you failed to redeem the ticket either due to oversight for any reason you were not able to claim the ticket, you are entitled to ask for a refund within 48 hours of the date of the tour.

African American Museum Package

Adult: $89 child: $79.

Includes African American museum ticket. Ticket is reserved for the following day. Please ask your guide or driver for your upgraded ticket when being checked in. Ticket Upgrades are self-guided.  In the event that the site is closed or you failed to redeem the ticket either due to oversight for any reason you were not able to claim the ticket, you are entitled to ask for a refund within 48 hours of the date of the tour. Child is 12 & under Children under 2 free

Washington Monument Package

Includes Washington Monument ticket Ticket is reserved for the following day. Please ask your guide or driver for your upgraded ticket when being checked in. Ticket Upgrades are self-guided.  In the event that the site is closed or you failed to redeem the ticket either due to oversight for any reason you were not able to claim the ticket, you are entitled to ask for a refund within 48 hours of the date of the tour.

Meets at the National Archives 800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington DC on the corner of 9th St & Pennsylvania Ave. at 7:00 PM. Please be there 30 min before tour starts (7:30 pm) Metro Stop: Archives Metro Station – Green & Yellow lines

Starts at 7:30 PM

• National Archives*
• The U.S. Capitol*
• White House*
• WWII Memorial
• MLK Memorial
• Korean War Memorial
• Lincoln Memorial
• Vietnam Memorial
• Vietnam Women Memorial
• USMC Memorial

Ends at 10:30 PM at National Archives

*Exterior photo stop only

DC is beautiful, but lit up at night, it’s magical. Tour the city and its most famous sights with our entertaining live guide for 3 unforgettable hours under the stars.

National Mall

The National Mall is America’s most-visited national park, where the past, present and future come together.

Monumental, Historic, Emotional, Iconic, Patriotic

There’s nothing like arriving on the National Mall for the very first time.

Seeing the  Washington Monument  rise majestically to the sky, surrounded by the stately  U.S. Capitol Building  at one end and the dignified  Lincoln Memorial  at the other, it’s hard not to think of America’s history. Explore the swath of land nicknamed “America’s front yard” and you’ll find inspiring monuments and memorials, museums and family fun.

The monuments and memorials in this park honor American forefathers and heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to this country. From the “I Have a Dream” speech to the AIDS Quilt, the Mall is the national stage where movements and celebrations take place, where people gather to have their voices heard.

But the National Mall is much more than a lesson in history through memorials made of stone. East of the Washington Monument lies world-class museums with something for everyone, including the  Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture , the newest addition the Mall’s impressive lineup of museums.

Pause for remembrance and learn about the fragility of freedom at the  United States Holocaust Memorial Museum , interpret the meaning of original Da Vinci and Van Gogh works at the  National Gallery of Art  or pick your own adventure from the many Smithsonian Institution Museums .

Wander along the wide, pedestrian-friendly, tree-lined boulevards and take in the history and scenery of America’s front yard, or admire the scenery during the comfort of a  Big Bus Tour . There’s always something to see and do, as the Mall plays host to  events of all sizes  almost every week.

@ ian.a.bentley

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A little something for everyone.

Boutique hotels, family-friendly hotels, budget-friendly hotels - whatever you're looking for, you'll find it. Explore the hotel options waiting for your arrival.

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One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure

Gordon parks: camera portraits from the corcoran collection, paris 1874: the impressionist moment, the peace trail on the national mall, sunset monuments & memorials architecture tour, story time: astronauts zoom, daytime solar observing with the national air and space museum, castle to capitol: museums of the national mall architecture tour, historic change: an evening celebrating the life and legacy of celia cruz, sickle cell awareness community day program, spotlight on dc stages: exploring the new theater season, simmons talk: a conversation with supreme court justice ketanji brown jackson, spirit & strength: modern art from haiti, the ’70s lens: reimagining documentary photography, a speakeasy evening, designing for rest and reflection, nmaahc live: a conversation between bill banfield and ernie isley, forward conference: religions envisioning change, see me at the smithsonian - national museum of african american history and culture, historically speaking - a passionate mind in relentless pursuit: the vision of mary mccleod bethune.

Featured Events

Keep up on the latest events at the National Mall

Discover the best things to do in Washington, DC, from events happening right now to annual festivals and more.

Mount Vernon Square

This historic city square and neighborhood masterfully blends DC’s past and present, perfect for business and pleasure.

Dive into this creative incubator by perusing food stalls at union market, trying trendy restaurants or exploring historic sites like gallaudet university..

Penn Quarter & Chinatown

Satisfy your appetite for hip restaurants and culture in this diverse ’hood where museums like the National Portrait Gallery keep company with eateries by celebrity chefs.

Take a look inside petworth, a close-knit residential neighborhood with local draws that beckon for you to explore., shaw is hip, trendy and edgy. from the live rock and roll music to the african-american civil war memorial, you’ll get plenty of excitement and culture here..

Southwest & The Wharf

The Southwest & The Wharf neighborhood is a must-visit for experiencing the arts and local history, as well as The Wharf's many restaurants, shops, concert venues and on-the-water activities.

The part of the city that never sleeps, u street stays up late and knows how to have a good time..

Upper Northwest

The tree-filled upper northwest neighborhoods of DC offer historic homes, the National Cathedral, cozy restaurants and great shopping.

The virginia towns and counties surrounding dc hum with culture, nature, shopping and history..

Woodley Park

Enjoy the great outdoors in the middle of DC. With the National Zoo and Rock Creek Park, this neighborhood houses everything from elephants to breathtaking waterways. Click below to learn more about what you’ll see in Woodley Park.

Find live entertainment, civil war sites and historic cities in the scenic old line state..

Logan Circle

Alluring for residents who dig the neighborhood’s old-timey charms and new shops and eateries, and for visitors who will find walkable blocks packed with things to do.

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H Street NE

A dynamic one-and-a-half mile corridor, this neighborhood promises a memorable night out, funky shops and chill cafés.

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Foggy Bottom

Culture vultures, diplomats and outdoor enthusiasts dig this riverside neighborhood best known as home to the Kennedy Center and the State Department.

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Congress Heights

Cheer on exciting sports action, catch a concert and plié for ballet in DC's Congress Heights neighborhood. Photographer Credit: Jessica Yurinko

Columbia Heights

Latin American culture, a jumbo city park plus cool bars and restaurants draw locals and visitors to this upper northwest hot zone.

Capitol Riverfront

Just south of the U.S. Capitol, this vibrant neighborhood on the Anacostia River is home to Major League Baseball’s Washington Nationals, watery diversions like kayaking and a booming restaurant scene.

Capitol Hill

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Adams Morgan

This culturally diverse neighborhood is known for its nightlife and eclectic dining scene thanks to all the bars and restaurants dotting the 18th Street corridor.

Routes and Trips Travel Guide with Maps and Photos

National mall walking itinerary, washington dc.

Posted by: Liisa Nygård

This post will take you on a National Mall walking itinerary to see the famous Washington DC museums and monuments. So leave your car and explore the amazing Washington DC National Mall by foot. We will guide you!

The National Mall is a 2,5 mile long green area between Capitol Hill in the east and the Lincoln Memorial in the west.

The needle-like Washington Monument stands at the very center, north of it the White House and south of it the Tidal Basin.

This is Lincoln Memorial at the far end of the National Mall:

Lincoln Memorial is where the National Mall ends

In addition the long, green area contains world-famous memorials of American history and US government buildings. And not to forget, a huge amount of world-class museums.

Looking forward to see it all – for free!

E Pluribus Unum on the National Mall walking itinerary

So, now park somewhere off the Mall and take our itinerary. Take good shoes , walk and visit as many attractions as you like, and as I said, all National Mall attractions are free!

First we will put things on the map:

National Mall Walking Itinerary on the Map

Our National Mall walking itinerary on the map

Above you will see Washington DC and its National Mall on a Google map. To see the location in the US, zoom out the map, and to see the details, zoom in.

Our self-guided walking tour is the blue dots. The dots help you walk between the sights and find them all, and this post will explain them in words and photos.

We will start from the Capitol Hill at the east end and then head west along the mall:

The US Capitol

Side view of the US Capitol, Washington DC

The US Capitol centers the green Capitol Hill and the massive building is something you absolutely must visit. The entrance is behind the building.

Behind the Capitol building is also the Library of Congress and next to it the Supreme Court.

The sights of Capitol Hill almost deserve a full day, for which reason we have put them in a separate post.

National Mall walking itinerary: the US Capitol 

Read the details about Capitol Hill, US Capitol and Library of Congress in our post Washington DC: Capitol Hill Walk.

The post will take you through the massive Capitol halls full of statues, columns and historic treasures and then through an underground walkway to the Congress Library that. too, is full of art and treasures of all kind:

Library of Congress and Supreme Court in Washington DC

Now, for the rest of the National Mall continue reading this post.

First one of the many National Mall museums, the Museum of the American Indian:

Museum of the American Indian

Curved wall of the National Museum of the American Indian

The National Museum of the American Indian is what you will first see in the eastern part of the National Mall.  The nature-inspired limestone building has flowing water around it.

In the Museum you will learn about native Americans, their values, culture and how their lives have changed during centuries. We got to know a lot about different Indian tribes, how they moved across the country and how important nature still is to the Indians.

The museum cafe serves meals based on traditional Indian food heritage. Recommend!

National Mall around the Museum of the American Indian

Another attraction nearby is the US Botanic Garden. If botanic gardens interest you, read more about this lovely garden in the blog post  Washington DC: Capitol Hill Walk .

In the greenhouse of the US Botanic Garden

Then, back to the National Mall:

Sculpture Garden and National Archives

The US National Archives from Sculpture Garden

After the museum and the greenhouse walk further and see the many famous buildings on both sides, one of them the Greek-style US National Archives main building. In the US National Archives you can see things like the US Constitution, the Bill of Rights and the Declaration of Independence .

In winter time the park also contains a skating rink.

National Mall walking itinerary: Sculpture Garden

These pictures are from the National Mall Sculpture Garden . It’s a part of the National Gallery and belongs their exhibition on modern art.

National Gallery of Art

The National Mall and the National Gallery of Art

The huge National Gallery of Art is in two buildings, the old West Building and the East Building built in the 1970s. The West Building has European and American paintings, sculptures and objects and the East Building shows modern art.

On the days I was visiting Washington DC there were many school groups visiting from all parts of the country. They went to the National Gallery and the Museum of Natural History.

There are many museums on both sides of the National Mall. You would need a week to see them all. Just start with the ones you like most.

The Museums of National Mall

• National Museum of Natural History
• Hirshorn Museum
• National Air and Space Museum
• Arts and Industries Building
• African Art Museum
• Smithsonian Castle
• Freer Gallery of Art
• Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
• American History Museum

I only spent two days on the National Mall and decided to walk into the American History Museum.

National Museum of American History

Washington DC: National Museum of American History

Since I’m from Europe I wanted to learn about American history and that’s what I really did in this museum.

There was an interesting exhibition of former American presidents and another one telling about the First Ladies. Then there was a room showing American food habits from 1950 to 2000. After seeing that I understand how much all immigrants from different parts of the world have affected American food culture. And so have the new technologies and the wish to eat and drink on the move.

After learning so much I wanted to buy something home so I went to the museum store. The store was full of American Christmas decoration with flags and other items, all in US national colors red, blue and white. And it was first the beginning of November!

The museum shop of American History Museum

Washington Monument

Washington Monument, National Mall walking itinerary

This is the Washington Monument, something you can see from all over the city. Washington Monument was built to honor George Washington and completed in 1884. It was and still is the highest freestanding stone monument in the world.

They began with white marble from Maryland and different marble was added as the work proceeded. All this made that the color changes in the middle.

There are 50 flags around the monument, one for each state.

You can take an elevator ride to the top, it’s free. But to do that you have to get a ticket at the ticket kiosk which is a small house to the east of the monument. In November there was no waiting time, but it probably will be in the summer.

The White House

The White House on the National Mall of, Washington DC

A short way north of the National Mall stands the massive White House building from where the US president rules the country.

If you want to see the interior you will have to book your visit in advance. We didn’t go in but it was equally great to see the famous building at a distance.

World War II Memorial

National World War II Memorial, Washington DC

West of the Washington Monument stands the next US national monument, the National World War II Memorial . The memorial has 4 048 gold stars on the wall each of which represents 100 soldiers that died in the war.

There is a granite pillar for each state and words by presidents are written in stone walls around the fountain.

Veterans Day

Veterans Day parade on the National Mall walking itinerary

The day I was visiting there was a Veterans Day event. There was a parade and veterans from all over US came to Washington DC with the help of non-profit organizations. The Amercians take so much better care of their veterans than we do in Europe.

The Reflecting Pool

Washington Monument from the Reflecting Pool

There are many reflecting pools in Washington DC but the one between the National World War Memorial and Lincoln Memorial is the largest.  This is the view you can see in all postcards. Just amazing!

Lincoln Memorial

Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall of Washington DC

And last but not least on the National Mall is the Lincoln Memorial that celebrates Abraham Lincoln. It is the symbol of freedom and equality. Inside is a Lincoln statue and Lincoln’s most famous speeches are written on a stone wall.

And the basement has a small museum where you can learn about the Memorial’s history. Did you know that Martin Luther King Jr. gave his “I have a dream” speech in this place?

Tidal Basin

Tidal Basin, Naitonal Mall walking itinerary

South of the Lincoln Memorial is a little lake, called the Tidal Basin. The basin is lined by cherry trees that originally were a present from the Japanese. And you can rent a paddle boat here in the summer. In winter there are no paddle boats but there are bike rentals.

If you have time, rent a bike, make a bike tour around the Tidal Basin. By bike you can also see the monuments on the other side of the Basin.

I will end my National Mall walking itinerary here., we have now seen the Mall from east to west. We have seen a lot today but maybe you can return to the National Mall another day and discover more on this green stretch full of important national monuments and museums.

Goodbye from National Mall, Washington DC!

More on Washington DC

If you are planning a trip to Washington DC, check out these posts:

• Washington DC: Capitol Hill Walk
• Washington DC Day Trip to Old Town Alexandria

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Washington DC Tours

Don't leave your tour guide on a bus.

National Mall

National Mall The National Mall is in downtown Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States. It is an open-area national park and the National Park Service administers the National Mall. The National Mall or ‘The Mall’ as it is called is a long strip surrounded by museums and monuments. It is over 2 miles from the Lincoln Memorial on the western border to the US Capitol on the east. The major ones are 1. US Capitol 2. Ulysses S. Grant Memorial 3. National Gallery of Art 4. National Museum of the American Indian 5. National Air and Space Museum 6. National Museum of Natural History 7. Hirshhorn Museum 8. Smithsonian Castle 9. National Museum of American History 10. Washington Monument 11. World War II Memorial 12. Vietnam Memorial 13. Korean War Veterans Memorial 14. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial 15. Lincoln Memorial You have to budget some good time for the mall. Even a week’s visit would not be enough to really devour all the Smithsonian’s institutions. You pick and choose according to your interests. The art galleries are fantastic, but not be good with kids, who will on the other hand love the Natural History and Air and Space Museums and that, will please adults as well. To see a lot during a limited stay and time is to visit museums during the day and monuments at night. The museums usually close at 5PM, then take a long walk to visit the monuments in the dark when the air cools, and when the monuments are their most beautiful. It’s a popular activity in the summer; you won’t be alone even after midnight. Activities The National Mall is home to popular annual events like • The Smithsonian Folk life Festival • The Fourth of July fireworks and • The Kite Festival. There is a carousel in warm weather and a skating rink in the cold months. Also everything from dog shows and movies to ultimate Frisbee and club sports can be found on its greens. The great place, just sitting in the middle gives you a birds-eye view of all the monuments. There are sale kiosks with goodies and food. Watch people from all over the world a true fun place to people watch and the central point to get to everything. Go and revel in it.

• National Mall The National Mall is in downtown Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States. It is an open-area national park and the National Park Service administers the National Mall. The National Mall or 'The Mall' as it is called is a long strip surrounded by museums and monuments. It is over 2 miles from the Lincoln Memorial on the we

UponArriving

National Mall in Washington DC (1 Day/24hr Itinerary) [2022]

I’ve traveled all around the world and have seen a lot of bucket-list worthy places. And while it’s impossible to rank all of these places, in my opinion, the National Mall in Washington DC is way up there and one of the most interesting sites in the world.

If you only have one day or about 24 hours in Washington DC, I would highly suggest that you make your way to the National Mall.

But because there is so much to see there you definitely need to have a plan so that you make the best use of your time and don’t miss out on some of the more hidden attractions.

We recently spent one day exploring the National Mall and I learned a ton about how to best approach crafting an itinerary for a day tour.

In this article, I’ll break it all down for you and give you some guidance so that you can have the best experience possible at this magnificent site.

Table of Contents

What is the National Mall?

The National Mall is not a shopping mall (sorry shoppers). Instead, it’s an expansive area consisting of open park grounds, world-class museums, war memorials, famous historical monuments, and some of the most important US government buildings.

People visit the National Mall to check out what is essentially the headquarters of US government, explore the renown museums, and perhaps most importantly, honor and reflect on all of the sacrifices made by those in the past that allow us to enjoy the freedoms we have today.

Note: Some people define the National Mall proper as consisting of a smaller area but for purposes of this article, I’m lumping all of the major attractions that border the National Mall into one area since they are all easily accessible once you’re in the general vicinity.

Tip: Use the free app WalletFlo to help you travel the world for free by finding the best travel credit cards and promotions!

What sites can you see at the National Mall?

When visiting the National Mall you’re going to see a mixture of government buildings, memorials, monuments, and museums.

Here’s a rundown of some of the most interesting sites you’ll likely want to focus on:

Government Buildings

Supreme court.

• Library of Congress
• US Capitol (Congress)
• White House
• Eisenhower Executive Office Building
• US Treasury Department

Memorials and monuments

• Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial

Washington Monument

World war ii memorial, vietnam veterans memorial, lincoln memorial, korean war veterans memorial, thomas jefferson memorial.

• Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
• Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
• Arlington National Cemetery/The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (across the Potomac)
• US Marine Corps War Memorial (across the Potomac)

National Gallery of Art

Smithsonian national museum of natural history, national archives museum.

• National Museum of the American Indian
• Hirshhorn Museum
• Smithsonian National Museum of American History
• Smithsonian Castle
• National Museum of African American History and Culture
• United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
• National Portrait Gallery (few blocks away)

Food and snack huts

You can find a lot of food and snack huts throughout the National Mall. As you would probably guess the prices will be expensive but you can purchase things like water bottles, chips, and hot food items like burgers, pretzels, etc.

One thing that surprised me was the number of bathrooms. There are some permanent bathroom facilities but also rows of portable toilets in case you need to go.

Hotel Review: AC Hotel Washington DC Convention Center

What is the best way to see the National Mall?

Walking + uber.

I would highly recommend you to consider walking throughout the National Mall.

If you are able-bodied this will be the best way to see the National Mall and it’s a beautiful walk to do when the weather permits.

My preferred way of exploring is to walk until you basically are not enjoying the walking anymore and then rely on a ride sharing service like Uber to get you back to your hotel to recharge or simply take you to your next destination.

I saw quite a few bike stations around the National Mall and it seems like a great way to get around. I just don’t like to bother with locating the stations and dealing with a bike so I prefer to just walk via foot.

If you want to rent a bike you can look into services like Capital Bike Share .

Like every other major city that attracts a lot of tourists, you can choose to do a hop on hop off bus tour . These can be a great way to get around but it does mean having to rely on a bus and dealing with certain stops.

Some of these bus tours have audio recordings that can give you more insight into the sites so it’s not a bad way to see the National Mall.

Driving does not seem like a very practical way to see the National Mall because of limited parking and traffic.

However, if you get familiar with the different parking areas and are comfortable driving you might be able to make it work.

Also, if you are driving in the early morning or evening parking will be more readily available and driving is much more doable.

What order should you visit the sites at the National Mall?

The good news. There is no wrong way to explore all of the memorials and museums in the National Mall. You could start at either side or even in the middle.

The bad news. That doesn’t really help your planning at all.

So to help give your visit some structure, here are three major tips:

Don’t worry about planning exact visit times

Unless you are planning on attending some type of specific tour or timed-entry attraction, you don’t have to plan out your visit times to any of the below locations and you can just check them out at your own pace.

Set a practical limit for your sites

If you only have one day you should draw the line somewhere on the number of sites you plan to see because one day is simply not enough time to see it all.

This is especially true with sites like museums that eat up huge chunks of time.

Start from the east side

I would recommend following the path that we did starting on the east side of the National Mall and then work towards the west.

Below, I’ll walk you through the itinerary we did and provide you with more tips to avoid some of the mistakes we made.

Note: For this itinerary to work, you want to get started early – no later than 8am.

National mall sites ( itinerary)

I’m probably a little bit biased because of my lawyer background but I thought stepping on the steps of the Supreme Court was extremely cool .

It’s a beautiful courthouse and it’s a shame that it’s a bit tucked away behind the US Capitol Building, but I guess there was really nowhere else to put it in the National Mall by the time they built it in the 1930s.

If you don’t want to settle for glimpses of the Supreme Court’s exterior, you can head inside to check out more.

The Supreme Court does not offer guided tours of the facility but there are self-guided exhibitions you can check out. They also have lectures that they offer which are available on days that the Court is not in session.

These lectures are available Monday through Friday on a first-come, first-served basis and are free of charge. They usually begin every hour on the half-hour beginning at 9:30 am with the final lecture at 3:30 pm.

Note: Due to coronavirus these tours may not be available.

Right next door to the Supreme Court is the Library of Congress — a beautiful building known for being the largest library in the world.

Also, if you’re a Shakespeare fan you can check out the Folger Shakespeare Library whenever it opens back up.

US Capitol Building

Right next to the Supreme Court is the US Capitol Building.

Construction of the US Capitol Building began in 1793 and in 1800, Congress met in the first completed portion, the north wing.

Something a lot of people don’t know is that there is a huge US Capitol Visitor Center located underneath the US Capitol Building.

In fact, the visitor center is about 3/4 the size of the Capitol!

During normal times you can book tours of the Capitol Building and check out the Visitor Center but due to the pandemic these are currently not available.

When they do open up, advanced reservations will likely still be recommended or even required.

After you make your way past the Capitol Building you are now in close proximity to several of the best museums in Washington DC.

My personal preference is to focus on all of the outdoor sites in the National Mall first.

This is an ideal strategy for a few reasons.

First, this will allow you to stay in a mindset of remembrance when visiting the monuments and war memorials.

It’s also a great plan because if you are visiting when the temperatures can get warm you can check out all of the sites early in the morning when the weather will be cooler.

Then, when things start to heat up you can head indoors to the museums.

And finally, some of these museums don’t open until 10am so if you get started early (around 7am to 8am) you can explore a lot of the National Mall before the museums even open their doors.

Note: If you do choose to hit up the museums at this point, check out the section at the bottom of this article on the National Mall’s museums.

Once you pass the Capitol Building you can make a quick stop to the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial which is just west of the building. Ulysses S. Grant was a U.S. President and Civil War general for the victorious Union Army.

After that, you’ll then be heading west on the National Mall.

I would suggest staying on the south side so that you can make a short side trip to the one of the newest monuments dedicated in 2020: the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial.

If you’re putting off visiting the museums, the next visit will be the Washington Monument.

The Washington Monument — which honors the first president of the US: George Washington — is the most iconic symbol of Washington DC.

Built on July 4, 1848 and dedicated on February 21, 1885, this marble obelisk stands 555 feet tall — ten times the width of the base.

If you look closely at the Washington Monument, you’ll notice the two different colors of the monument.

During the construction they basically ran out of one type of stone and had to use a different type which is why the monument is bi-colored.

The monument has undergone a lot of restoration work through the decades including in 2011-2014 when it sustained damage from an  earthquake ! 

If you want to, you can head to the top of the monument but you need to book tickets ahead of time. Head to recreation.gov and you can try to get tickets the day before your visit.

You’ll take an elevator all the way up to the top which thankfully is not the original steam engine elevator which took 10 to 12 minutes to make its way to the top floor.

After your visit, you can turn north and head to the White House which is only about a 20 minute walk from the Washington National Monument.

But as I discuss below, we decided to save the White House for last and went straight from the Washington National Monument to the World War II Memorial.

The World War II Memorial , dedicated by President George W. Bush on May 29, 2004, is one of the most impressive war memorials in DC.

It honors the “service of 16 million members of the Armed Forces of the United States of America, the support of countless millions on the home front, and the ultimate sacrifice of 405,399 Americans .”

56 Granite columns representing each U.S. state and territory at the time of World War II surround you in the middle as you contemplate the scale of people who were involved in the war.

Seeing the columns for all of the states and territories gave me a sense of the unity required to come out victorious in such a massive war.

For a war memorial, it actually felt a bit uplifting , which was weird considering it was the most costly war in terms of human life.

Ironically, I think that was one of the biggest criticisms of this monument — it was a bit too “celebratory” and “pompous” for some.

As you wander, spend some time locating your state’s column on the perimeter of the memorial while paying respects for those from your home who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Then head to the center of the memorial where you’ll find the pool which I think still goes to the name of Rainbow Pool.

There’s a bit of controversy on whether or not it’s disrespectful to get in the water of Rainbow Pool, which is something visitors do on hot days.

At the time of our visit, signs indicated that putting your feet in the water was okay but wading was not. So use common sense there.

At the back, there’s a wall of 4,048 gold stars which was designed to remind visitors of all of the sacrifices made by over 400,000 Americans. Each star represents 100 US deaths.

Tip: Don’t forget to look for Kilroy

After you make your way past the World War II Memorial, you have a choice to make.

You could go ahead and make a loop around the Tidal Basin which is where you find sites like the Jefferson Memorial.

Or you could put that loop off until later and simply keep going west where you will encounter the famous Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.

We chose to put off the Jefferson Memorial until later which I think is a good call but you really can’t go wrong with either way.

Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

Built in the 1920s, the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is not only a place where you can catch a beautiful reflection of the monuments, surrounding trees, and sky.

It’s also a place to reflect on all of the people and events that have shaped our nation’s history over the centuries.

When we arrived at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, I was a little bit disappointed to find out the pool was not filled up all the way.

I’m not sure how often that happens and perhaps it was due to some cleaning but it took a little bit away from the beauty of the Reflecting Pool if I’m being honest.

At least we still had the ducks, I guess.

At any rate, we chose to walk along the north side of the Reflecting Pool so that we would arrive at the next location, the: Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

When people talk about war memorials in DC it seems like the most moving of these is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial .

Just how important is this memorial?

At the dedication on November 11, 1982, there was a 56-hour reading at Washington National Cathedral of all the engraved names of the dead.

Undoubtedly, the listed names of 58,318 Americans on the shiny black granite wall will leave you with a lasting impression of the sacrifice that so many people made.

The order of the names is a little confusing but basically they are listed in chronological order of the time of passing.

The earliest death begins in the middle of the memorial (at the high point) and then names follow chronologically to the right until you get to 1968.

At that point, the names resume on the short end of the west panels and then follow chronologically towards the center. This way the first and last deaths meet up with each other in the middle.

There’s also a code of sorts used on the memorial.

As the NPS states:

Those declared dead are marked by a diamond; those MIA are marked by a cross. If the person currently marked as MIA returns alive, a circle is placed around the cross. If his remains are identified, a diamond is superimposed over the cross.

For me, knowing how brutal the tactics were in this war it was very moving to see all of these names. I could only imagine the stories those people could tell.

Other elements to check out include the: The Three Serviceman statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, the In Memory plaque, and a flagpole that flies both the U.S. and the MIA-POW flag.

Find a bench near these to rest your legs and plan out your next move, which likely will be the Lincoln Memorial.

Interesting fact : the Salem Witch Memorial was inspired by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

I like that we started at the east end of the National Mall because it built up lots of anticipation for the Lincoln Memorial .

There’s something about the Lincoln Memorial that just feels so uniquely inspiring and powerful.

I think it’s a combination of Lincoln’s tragic assassination and honestly just growing up with the Lincoln Memorial on the back of all our pennies and five dollar bills.

Either way, if we are talking about the monument with the biggest “oooh” factor it is hands-down the Lincoln Memorial.

Modeled after the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, and dedicated in 1922, the Lincoln Memorial is a masterpiece.

You’ll find 36 fluted Doric columns rising 50 foot high columns and surrounding the temple (one for each of the 36 states in the Union at the time).

The 19-foot sculpture of Lincoln, which took four years to complete, possesses some subtle symbolic meaning if you look closely.

The creator positioned Lincoln’s hands so as to display his two most important qualities.

One hand is clenched, which represents Lincoln’s strength and determination to finish the war.

The other hand rests open representing his compassionate, warm nature.

Even the steps outside are rich with history as this is where Martin Luther King gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.

You can look for the exact location on the steps where King delivered the speech as there is an inscription. Be prepared for the goosebumps.

Inside the memorial, engraved on the interior walls, you’ll find the Gettysburg Address and Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address, which he made only 41 days before his assassination.

Above the inscriptions, you can find a 60 foot by twelve foot mural painted by Jules Guerin which is meant to portray the governing principles of Lincoln’s life.

There are also some bathrooms and exhibits underneath the memorial.

The Korean War Veterans Memorial is one of the lesser talked about memorials in DC even though it saw 33,686 US deaths.

In fact, the war as a whole has sort of lived in the shadow of Vietnam considering that the Korean War happened before Vietnam but didn’t have a memorial until 1995 (built after the Vietnam Memorial in 1982).

For that reason, I felt a special obligation to spend some time honoring the fallen of “the  Forgotten War .”

That plan was kind of ruined when we arrived because there was a lot of ongoing construction and it was just not the ideal time to visit.

With that said, I would like to go back when the memorial has been renovated.

At this memorial you’ll find 19 stainless steel statues, a wall of remembrance, and I’m sure some impressive new features that will be finished soon.

After you visit the Korean War Memorial you now have another decision to make of whether or not you want to proceed towards the Jefferson Memorial and knock out a few more sites around the Tidal Basin.

Or, you can do what we did and proceed to Arlington National Cemetery.

You could of course do both but that will involve a lot of additional walking and time. If you plan on hitting up some of the museums I would not try to walk to both of these locations as that will eat up a lot of time.

Arlington National Cemetery

We chose to walk from the National Mall to Arlington National Cemetery .

We did not see any other tourists making this walk so I don’t think a lot of people choose to make the way to the National Cemetery by foot.

However, I would recommend making the walk.

For one, it’s a pretty cool walk and you get to cross the Potomac River as well as the state lines for Virginia. (It’s not every day you get to walk across state lines in the US.)

But more importantly the Arlington Memorial Bridge is an incredibly symbolic bridge to America.

Built in 1932, Arlington Memorial Bridge is a symbolic bridge that crosses the Potomac River, a body of water which once divided the Northern and Southern states.

Moreover, it connects the Lincoln Memorial to Robert E Lee’s Memorial as part of an intentional act of symbolism that represents the nation coming back together post Civil War.

To access the cemetery you’ll need to go through security so this is not your ordinary cemetery wide open to the public.

Inside the cemetery, there are tram tours that depart every 30 minutes, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. However, we opted to just walk around on our own.

I’m definitely not a big “cemetery person” but Arlington National Cemetery is quite beautiful and unlike any cemetery I’ve ever visited. It’s vast, historic, and peaceful.

Within the cemetery there are many different sites to see.

The most famous is probably The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier .

Since 1921, it’s been the home to an unidentified World War I service member. Unknown military members were added from later wars in 1958 and 1984.

It’s also just been a sight of mourning and reflection for all of those in the military.

Changing of the guard ceremonies go on throughout the day and you just need to time your visit so that you can witness one of them.

Luckily, this isn’t hard to do.

The ceremonies happen every hour on the hour from October 1 through March 31, and every half hour from April 1 through September 30. They are all free to observe .

Every movement from the guards is extremely precise and symbolic like the 21 steps they take and the directions they face, so it’s cool to learn a little bit about the symbolism before you check out the ceremony.

Be extra careful about being noisy or standing in the wrong area and definitely do not trespass to the area where the soldiers are guarding the Tomb.

Another interesting site is the gravesite of John F Kennedy, where you can observe the eternal flame.

If you are into checking out gravesites you can also check out the final resting place of Robert Kennedy, William Howard Taft (former president), and Thurgood Marshall.

There is also the Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial , which has a fascinating and sort of comical history related to the cemetery. Tickets are required to enter the Arlington House.

If you have the extra energy you can also make your way to the US Marine Corps War Memorial , which is a creation modeled after a Pulitzer Prize winning photo taken at Iwo Jima (arguably the most famous war photo of all time).

Dedicated in 1954, it honors all Marines who have given their lives in defense of the United States since 1775.

After we finished up at Arlington Cemetery, we ended up taking an Uber back to our hotel room to freshen up a little bit and grab lunch which ended up being a fantastic idea and good use of time.

We were able to recharge and then head back out to check out the museums and eventually the White House. (Read more about the museums below.)

If you go this route just keep in mind the museums do not stay open very late (5pm to 5:30pm) so you need to make sure that you get back to the museums with as much time as you think you’ll need to explore.

Consider going back to the Jefferson Memorial in the evening after you have explored the museums and visited the White House.

We carved out some time the next morning for us to visit the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, which is on the Tidal Basin (where people flock to see cherry blossoms in early spring).

We figured that a morning visit would be pretty epic because our visit would coincide with the sunrise and we would probably have the site to ourselves.

Well, we were right — we were able to visit the memorial by ourselves. Just us two and good ole TJ.

But for some reason the lights were off.

This meant that we checked out the large sculpture of Thomas Jefferson in the dark which to be completely honest was a little bit creepy.

Still, I think this is one of the must-see memorials if you only have one day so I would do whatever you can to make time for it.

Nearby to the Jefferson Memorial you can also check out the:

• George Mason Memorial

If you want to hang out in the Tidal Basin a little longer and get a unique vantage point, consider renting Tidal Basin paddle boats.

We didn’t rent paddle boats but I’ve done paddle boats before in the UK and they can be a work out so be ready to get your legs pumping!

The White House

We decided to save the White House until the end of the day.

For one, temperatures would be a lot cooler and I just thought that ending our tour with the White House would be the right way to go.

There’s been a lot of construction around the White House recently as they have been installing a fence that is twice as high as the old fence and also more durable and secure.

Believe it or not, someone was able to successfully jump the fence and even make their way inside a few years ago.

As long as there are no closures I think you can check out the White House from both the north and south side.

For us, we were only able to check it out from the north view which is a really nice view.

If you want a tour of the inside of the White House that’s possible but you have to plan that well in advance and write to your local Congress representative .

When you’re viewing the White House from the north entrance, it’s hard to see the corridors for the “45 second” commute leading to the East Wing and West Wing, so the White House complex looks a lot smaller than it actually is.

For those that don’t know, the West Wing is where most of the “stuff” happens as that is where you’ll find the Oval Office, the Situation Room, the Cabinet Room, the Press Room, etc.

As you admire the White House you’ll probably see Secret Service members scoping out people from the top of the building and even making patrols through the lawn.

Don’t climb on the fence but feel free to stick your arm through the fence to get a good shot with your camera/phone.

The White House is nearby a couple of additional big-time attractions.

Just next-door is the Eisenhower Executive Office Building (EEOB), which is located next to the West Wing, and houses a majority of offices for White House staff.

Just a few blocks away there is the Ford’s Theatre which of course is where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated.

It has a museum now with lots of exhibits from the tragic assassination and you can still view the balcony Lincoln sat on when everything happened.

Museums at the National Mall

We spent about two hours checking out the museums which is not nearly enough time to fully explore them but if you only have one day, it’s enough time to see and appreciate some of the major highlights.

There are a ton of museums in the National Mall and surrounding area and some of them are 100% free .

Tip: None of the museums were super crowded when we visited but if they do get crowded consider going through the back entrances which might be quicker.

Below, I’ll highlight four of the most interesting museums to check out (in my opinion) and then also provide you with a list of additional museums you might be interested in.

Highlights: Artwork by Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Johannes Vermeer, and other legendary artists.

Highlights: Dinosaurs, cool interactive exhibits, all-around good time.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Highlights: Apollo 11 Command Module Columbia, model of the starship Enterprise, Wright brothers’ Wright Flyer airplane

Highlights: Viewing of the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and Bill of Rights.

Additional museums you may find worthwhile:

• National Portrait Gallery

You could easily spend 2 to 3 hours at a few of these museums and eat up your entire day.

So if you only have one day my suggestion is to choose two of the museums are the most interesting to you and plan on visiting those. Try to give yourself up to three hours between the two museums if you can. Typically, this will mean reserving museum time between 2:30pm and 5:30pm.

Visiting the National Mall is an experience that you will never forget. Even if you only have 24 hours, you can still see some monuments, museums, and government buildings that will blow your mind. If you follow the itinerary above and get started around 7am you should have a jam-packed day full of amazing experiences.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

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What to do on July 4 in the DC area, from National Mall celebrations to community parades

How to spend fourth of july on the national mall, plus details on fireworks and community events in maryland and virginia, by sophia barnes • published july 3, 2024 • updated on july 4, 2024 at 8:43 am.

Happy Fourth of July! The United States is turning 248 years old, and the Washington, D.C., area is going all out with tons of fireworks, free concerts, historical events and parades.

Fourth of July on the National Mall

📺 Watch News4 now: Stream NBC4 newscasts for free right here, right now.

If there’s one holiday to celebrate on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., it’s Independence Day.

But with big crowds, road closures and extra security measures, you’ll want to make a plan. Here’s what to know about road closures, Metro and National Mall access points. The bottom line: Budget time to take Metro, navigate crowds and undergo a security screening at the National Mall access points.

National Park Service fireworks

The National Park Service’s big fireworks display will fire from either side of the Lincoln Memorial. It’s scheduled to begin at 9:09 p.m. and last for 17 minutes.

Access points to the National Mall are scheduled to open at 1 p.m. Expect a security screening and bag check. Here’s a list of prohibited items.

The fireworks can be viewed from A Capitol Fourth concert , Fourth on The Wharf and many locations in the District and in Virginia. Our Fireworks Finder lists our favorite viewing spots. Or, check our list of watch parties on rooftops, boats and more.

List: What to do in the DC area this week, July 1-7

July 4 fireworks in DC: Where to watch with rooftop views, live music and cruises

Daytime activities on the National Mall

Want to get started early? Daytime activities in the National Mall zone include:

• The National Independence Day Parade , which is set to begin at 11:45 a.m. The parade will go along Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Street NW. The steps of the National Archives are a good place to watch, and the museum has a lot of special activities planned…
• Independence Day at the National Archives : Party with the Declaration of Independence itself. Not only can you visit the museum to see the United States’ founding documents, but you can enjoy a reading of the Declaration of Independence, a live performance from The Experience Band and Show and family activities including hands-on crafts. Here’s the full schedule.
• The Capital Jewish Museum’s family day is set to feature history talks, mezuzah activities, crafts, music and outdoor games. It’s located an easy walk from the National Mall, and could make a good stop between the Judiciary Square and the mall.
• The National Park Service will host espionage-themed activities from the Sylvan Theater near the Washington Monument. They're geared toward kids aged 10 and up.
• The Smithsonian museums will be open, providing a nice refuge from the weather.

Best Metro stations for National Mall access

• The Smithsonian/National Mall or Federal Triangle (both on the Orange, Blue, Silver lines) are very close to the National Mall, but the National Park Service recommends considering other stations that are a little further, but less crowded.
• L’Enfant Plaza (Silver, Orange, Blue, Green, Yellow lines), Metro Center (Red, Blue, Orange, Silver lines), Judiciary Square (Red Line) and Archives/Navy Memorial (Green, Yellow lines) are all within walking distance of the National Mall.

Fireworks in Maryland and Virginia

Our Fireworks Finder lists the big displays in D.C., Maryland and Virginia, including several shows happening over the weekend like Mid-County Sparkles in Kensington and a Wild West-themed festival in Bladensburg .

Things to do on July 4

Reading of "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?" at the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site Thurs., July 4, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., 1411 W St. SE 🔗 Details

Frederick Douglass famously asked an audience in 1852, "What to the slave is the Fourth of July?" His now-famous speech pointedly criticized the irony of celebrating freedom in a country in which it was legal to enslave people.

In one of D.C.’s most reflective and moving July 4 traditions, actor Michael Crutcher will portray Douglass and deliver the speech on the front porch of Douglass's former home in Anacostia. After the reading, DC Strings Workshop will perform historic music. Visitors can take photos with the Crutcher and tour the first floor of the historic home.

An American Celebration Thurs., July 4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mount Vernon, included with admission 🔗 Details

If most fireworks shows are after your kids’ bed time, Mount Vernon might be a good alternative.

Made-for-daytime fireworks are set to go off over the Potomac River at 1 p.m.

That’s just one part of a day-long Independence Celebration at the former home of George Washington. Performances, history talks and tours are also on tap.

A Capitol Fourth Gates open at 3 p.m., concert begins at 8 p.m., U.S. Capitol grounds 🔗 Details

The annual concert on the U.S. Capitol’s West Lawn will be a star-studded show featuring Smokey Robinson celebrating Motown, Fantasia, “Glee’s” Darren Criss, Sister Sledge, the National Symphony Orchestra, a send-off for Team USA and views of the National Mall fireworks.

The show and the dress rehearsal on Wednesday are free and open to the public. Gates will open at 3 p.m. on both days. 

Fourth at The Wharf 5-9 p.m. 🔗 Details

Head to The Wharf for a free day of country music on four stages and family-friendly activities. As long as the weather is decent, you can expect great views of the fireworks going off over the National Mall.

Food and drinks are available all around The Wharf. You can bring a low-back chair to the District Pier, but come early as space is limited.

Community parades

Get patriotic with the whole neighborhood at these community parades:

• Palisades Parade and Picnic in Northwest D.C.
• Capitol Hill Community 4th of July Parade beginning at Barracks Row
• Takoma Park Parade starting at Carroll and Ethan Allen avenues
• Kensington’s annual bike parade
• Arlington: See a list of community parades here.
• Fairfax Independence Day Parade
• Great Falls Hometown Parade
• Leesburg Independence Day Parade

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Divine Shepard - Washington DC Fall 2024

Washington, DC, USA

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About this trip

Fly to DC this Fall to enjoy an amazing tour of our Nation's capital! Visit Smithsonian museums, the National Mall, the Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson Memorials and Tidal Basin, the Pentagon US Air Force Memorial , Arlington National Cemetery and and more. Your hotel is in a great location so you can take in the local sights and sounds, catch a cocktail with friends or go for an evening stroll. Five days in Washington will be just the bucket list vacation you needed!

Washington DC Bus Tour

Print the Washington DC Brochure 2024  and mail to:

Bellevue NE 68005

Day 1 - >>Welcome Dinner >>Illuminated Night Tour

The Nation's capital, a monument in itself of democracy! This five day tour has the best itinerary. You'll fly into DC, be picked up by tour private motorcoach and head to the hotel! The evening starts with a Welcome dinner in DC! Then, enjoy a guided tour of the illuminated monuments! Their majestic presence is a site you'll never forget. Finally, head back to your hotel to relax. (D)

Day 2 - >>Arlington National Cem. >>Marine Corp Memorial >>National Mall & Smithsonians

Start your day with a visit to Arlington National Cemetery for a tram tour. View the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and more. Next you'll visit the Marine Corp Memorial. This afternoon, spend time on the National Mall, viewing a Smithsonian or enjoying the Tidal Basin. This evening, enjoy a spectacular dinner overlooking the Potomac River! (B, D)

Day 3 - >>Guided tour of the Pentagon >>9/11 Pentagon Memorial >>Mount Vernon tour & Cruise

This morning, you will start with a guided tour of the Pentagon! You'll explore this 34 acre complex that is home to the US Defense department. It is the largest office building in the world with over 6.5 million square feet of space. This is an up close and personal view of this immensely important building! After the tour, you'll visit the 9/11 memorial at the Pentagon where flight 77 crashed into the building. This afternoon, spend time at Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington! This imaculat acreage features the estate and gardens, all of which you will tour. You will also enjoy a sightseeing cruise, enjoying gorgeous views of the Potomac on a beautiful Spring evening. To finish off this amazing day, you will experience an amazing dinner on the Washington Estate. After dinner, head back to the hotel to rest up or enjoy a cocktail with friends! (B, D)

Day 4 - >>US Capitol >>City tour of Washington DC >>Farewell dinner

Today, you're in for a spectacular tour of the US Capitol. First built in the 1700s, this immense building houses the legislative branch of government. Once arrived you will visit the crypt, the Rotunda, and Statuary Hall on a guided tour! After the Capitol, you will have a guided tour of the city of Washington DC! On this tour you'll visit the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument. You will also stop at the Vietnam Veterans memorial, Ford theater, Washington National Cathedral and other amazing sites. After visiting these important memorials you will have an enhanced appreciation for not only our veterans but our forefathers as well and their vision for our great country. Once you have completed the tour, you will head to your Farewell dinner where you'll enjoy a fabulous meal to end an amazing tour! (B, D)

>> Bible Museum

Today you will spend time at the National Bible Museum. The museum documents the narrative, history, and impact of the Bible. Explore and enrich yourself in an immersive historical and spiritual experience. This afternoon your private motorcoach will take you and your group back to the airport for your departure flight home!  (B)

Tour also includes: • World Class Accommodations • Delicious Original Meals (no buffets) • Small Group Size • Knowledgeable Experience Guru • Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookie

**Flights not included in price.  Excite can book your airfare to arrive in Washington DC, or you many purchase your own airfare, allowing you to gain or redeem your rewards points for the purchase.  If booking the airline on your own, please make sure to book your flight to Washington DC on the dates specified.  If you book your own flights, you are required to find transportation to and from the hotel.

What’s included

• Hotel Accomodations
• Transportation Private Motorcoach
• Guide Service
• Activities Included in Itinerary
• Admissions Included in Itinerary

What’s not included

• Gratuities Guide & Driver ($4-$5 per day)
• Airfare Please contact 402-293-9282

Available Packages

Available options.

Please call 402-293-9282 after completing this reservation.

Please provide a copy of your flight itinerary to Excite after completing reservation.

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Map of july 4th event areas.

Special closures and security access points are in place on the National Mall & Memorial Parks on July 4 in support of the annual Fireworks Display . There are also medical aid stations , safe havens for weather events, restrooms, and other amenities set up in event-viewing areas for visitor safety and comfort. Contact other national parks in the DC area to find information about any other potential closures and services for July 4th activities.

Access Points

The access points for viewing the fireworks display are at the following locations:

• Constitution Avenue at Henry Bacon Drive NW
• 17th Street NW at Constitution Ave NW
• 15th Street NW at Madison Drive NW
• 14th Street SW at Jefferson Drive SW
• George Mason Memorial

Medical Aid Stations

• Lincoln Memorial Circle near the Korea War Veterans Memorial.
• Washington Monument Grounds, along Constitution Avenue NW, north of the Washington Monument
• Washington Monument Grounds, west of the ranger station along Independence Avenue SW
• 15th Street SW at Jefferson Drive SW
• The Mall at 12th Street walkway near the Smithsonian Metro Station.

Safe Havens

In the event of inclement weather, the following locations are designated as safe havens:

• Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium – 1301 Constitution Avenue NW
• Department of Education Headquarters Building – 400 Maryland Avenue SW
• Department of the Interior Headquarters Building – 1849 C Street NW
• General Services Administration Headquarters Building – 1800 F Street NW
• Herbert C. Hoover Federal Building (Department of Commerce) – 1401 Constitution Avenue NW
• Internal Revenue Service Headquarters Building – 1111 Constitution Avenue NW
• Jamie L. Whitten Federal Building (Department of Agriculture) – 1400 Jefferson Drive SW
• National Museum of African American History and Culture – 1400 Madison Drive NW
• National Museum of American History – 1300 block Madison Drive NW
• Ronald Reagan Building – 1301 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
• Wilbur J. Cohen Federal Building – 330 Independence Avenue SW

Family Reunification Area

A family reunification area is located on the southwest side of the Washington Monument grounds. Any missing persons found by event officials will be brought to this trailer to be reunited with family.

Alternative Text for the Stationary Map of July 4th Events Area Image

Banner: Text “2022 Independence Day Celebration, U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service” on a US flag background

Legend: Appears in the bottom right corner of the map

• Symbol of the letter “A” in a blue circle with text “Access Point”
• Symbol of a white cross in a red square with text “Medical Aid Station”
• Symbol of a yellow square with text “Family Reunification Area”

Map: Section of National Mall and Memorial Parks in Washington DC indicating event boundaries and location of security and services.

The Secure Area includes portions of the National Mall from the Potomac River shoreline east to 17th Street, and Constitution Avenue south to East Basin Drive. It includes the Lincoln Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the World War II Memorial grounds.

The fireworks Safety Zone is located along the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Po. These areas and Arlington Memorial Bridge are closed to the public. Access points locations on the map:

• West side of Arlington Memorial Bridge
• Constitution Avenue NW between 23rd Street NW and Henry Bacon Drive NW
• 17th Street SW and Independence Avenue SW
• East Basin Drive just south of the Jefferson Memorial (visitors will not be able to access the National Mall from here)

Medical aid station locations on the map:

• Lincoln Memorial Circle, on the east side of Henry Bacon Drive NW, southwest of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• Washington Monument Grounds, north of the ranger station along Independence Avenue SW
• Near the Smithsonian/National Mall Metro station (Mall entrance)

Family Reunification Area location on the map

• Washington Monument Grounds at Survey Lodge, along Independence Avenue
• West Potomac Park from John Ericcson Memorial to Inlet Bridge
• Along the Tidal Bason south of the Washington Monument from the John Paul Johnes Memorial to 15th Street SW (the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and World War II Memorial will close 4pm on July 4th)

Road Closures

GETTING AROUND TO DC AREA PARKS

George Washington Memorial Parkway includes parks along the Potomac River in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Check for closures on July 4.

National Capital Parks-East is a collection of small parks and historic places throughout DC. Check for potential closures on July 4.

National Mall & Memorial Parks includes many monuments and memorial in downtown DC. Check for event closures on and around July 4.

President's Park includes small parks and memorials surrounding the White House. Check for potential July 4 closures.

Rock Creek Park runs north and south through the middle of DC. Check for potential closures on July 4.

Join the festivities in Washington, DC, including the Independence Day Parade, Fireworks Display, and the Salute to America.

Find information to plan your trip around town on July 4, including directions, closures, security, and safety tips.

Share your DC Fourth of July experience on social media! Stay informed with alerts and fun-facts about the DC monuments.

View photos and videos of Independence Day festivities and preparations on the National Mall.

Take a moment to reflect on why millions of Americans gather for celebrations across the country on July 4th every year.

Ever wonder what it takes to put on a show for Independence Day in the nation's capital? Learn more about behind the scenes.