Lincoln Memorial
The seated marble Lincoln at the Mall's western end, looking down the reflecting pool.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you only have one day.
Why
- 01
Climbing the steps to the towering statue with the Gettysburg Address carved beside it lands emotionally even for the jaded — and it's genuinely best after dark, glowing and quieter.
Our read - 02
The catch: midday it's wall-to-wall tour groups jostling for the same photo.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
This is your first trip to Washington DC
The single most rewarding monument stop if you only have an hour.
You are watching the budget
On a budget, Lincoln Memorial still earns its price.
You only have one day
Even on a tight schedule, Lincoln Memorial earns the hours.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, Lincoln Memorial works.
Think twice if
You are planning for two
For romance, Lincoln Memorial is hit or miss.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free
- Timing
- After dark, when it is lit and crowd-free
- Allow
- 30–60 min
- Accessibility
- Steps to the chamber with an accessible side elevator
- Getting there
- About a 15-minute walk from Foggy Bottom Metro; open 24 hours