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Washington Monument

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · WASHINGTON, D.C.

Washington Monument

A 169-metre marble obelisk honouring George Washington, the centrepiece of the National Mall, with an elevator to views over the capital.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1 hour
Entry
Free (timed tickets)
Best time
Morning or sunset
Area
National Mall

The tall obelisk at the heart of the Mall.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024

  • Metro: Smithsonian station, then 10 minutes.
  • On foot: Middle of the National Mall.
  • Tickets: Free same-day or online reservations.

The story of Washington Monument

Building began in 1848 but stopped during the Civil War; you can still see a change in the stone colour a third of the way up. It was finished in 1884.

From the top you see the Capitol, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial and the Potomac River.

Best time to visit

Best season

Spring for cherry blossoms.

Best time of day

Morning or sunset.

Summer

Hot; book early slots.

Tips before you go

  • Free timed tickets for the elevator.
  • Reserve online to avoid sell-outs.
  • Walk to the Lincoln Memorial afterwards.

Best hotels near Washington Monument

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Hotels near the National Mall

Walk to the monuments.

See prices

Hotels in Downtown Washington DC

Central.

See prices

Hotels in Georgetown Washington DC

Historic and leafy.

See prices
All hotels near Washington Monument

What's around Washington Monument

  • Lincoln Memorial15 minutes on foot.
  • White House10 minutes.
  • Tidal Basin10 minutes.

Questions travellers ask

How tall is it?

About 169 m.

Is it free?

Yes, with a timed ticket.

How long do I need?

About 1 hour.

More in Washington, D.C.

US Capitol

US Capitol

Read the guide
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Travel Plan · Washington Monument Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us