Overview
The Washington Monument is a towering obelisk honoring George Washington, the first U.S. president. It stands as the tallest structure in Washington D.C. and offers panoramic views of the city.
Commemorates George Washington, significant in U.S. history and architecture.
Location
Address
2 15th St NW, Washington DC
Neighborhood: National Mall
Coordinates
38.889200, -77.036600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • cherry blossoms
- • gardens
summer
hot and humid
- • extended hours
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall colors
- • harvest festival
winter
cold, potential snow
- • holiday lights
- • winter market
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring ID
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate, elevator available
- • stairs if elevator crowded
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit/debit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual and comfortable, comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, hats in indoor areas
Booking Tips
- • 2-4 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours for full refund
- • available for timed entry
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
National Mall App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 15-20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, iconic landmark, great views
Historical Significance: Important events and protests have occurred here, central to U.S. history
Insider Tips
- Free entry for all visitors, no ticket needed
- Best food options near the monument
- Avoid peak hours for a quieter experience
Local Recommendations
- • Try local cafes and food trucks
- • Ask for recommendations from the visitor center staff
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French, ASL
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle
Result: Great shot of the monument with the Washington DC skyline
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
National Museum of American History
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Museum
National World War II Memorial
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Memorial
Lincoln Memorial
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Memorial
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Distance: 600m
Walking: 8 min
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online for timed entry"
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Great views from the top"
- "Free and worth the visit"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
No-Wait Washington Monument Direct Entry Tickets & Guidebook
Washington DC "See the City" Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour
George Washington's Mount Vernon Gardens & Grounds Admission
National Mall Tour w/ Washington Monument Semi-Private 12ppl Max
DC Mall w/ Washington Monument Ticket Exclusive Guided Tour
Excursion to Washington from New York in 1 day
Tea Around Town: High Tea Experience and Tour of Washington DC
2 hours Mini Tour of Washington DC
George Washington's Mount Vernon & Old Alexandria Half-Day Guided Tour from DC
Washington, D.C.: Monuments & Memories History Walking Tour
Discover Washington DC on a Day Trip from Manhattan or New Jersey
Mount Vernon & Old Alexandria with Night-Time Sightseeing Tour of Washington DC
Illuminated Icons: Private Evening Tour of Washington’s Monuments
Washington VIP Tour
Customizable Private Tour of Washington DC
Small-group Mt. St. Helen National Park Tour from Seattle in SUV
Virtual Online Grand Tour of Washington DC
New York to Washington DC Day Trip by Rail
Private 3 Hour Highlights Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests
Private Washington DC Full Day Tour for up to 10 Guests
Private Family Walking Tour in Washington
Customizable Private Night Tour of Washington DC
Private Black History Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests
4-Day All American Washington DC - Niagara Falls Round Trip Tour
Quick Info
Available Tours
164
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
$1.50