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The Washington Monument

2 15th Street Northwest, Washington, District of Columbia

Description

The Washington Monument is an obelisk commemorating George Washington, the first President of the United States (1789-1797). It is the world's tallest obelisk, measuring 169m, and is made of marble, granite, and bluestone gneiss. It is capped by a pyramidion and the interior is occupied by iron stairs and an elevator shaft. Visitors can go up and admire the views from the top.

Access & Transport

The Washington Monument is in the center of the National Mall & Memorial Parks (east-west axis) and roughly between the White House and Thomas Jefferson Memorial (north-south axis). It is a 10mins walk to the Smithsonian metro station (Blue, Orange, Silver lines). There are also bus stops along Constitution Ave NW, 14th St NW and 15th St NW.

Instructions & Recommendations

It is possible to 1) book tickets 30 days in advance, or 2) 24h in advance or 3) queue and get tickets on the day itself on a first-come, first-serve basis. See details here: https://www.nps.gov/wamo/planyourvisit/fees.htm

Meta review

One of the most famous and recognizable monuments in DC with good reviews from visitors who enjoy the views from the top, the fact that the top is accessible by elevator, and the beautiful pictures that the monument graces. The only drawback for some are the many restrictions and security apparatus around it.

Environmental & Social

The NPS has implemented energy saving measures such as use of LED lighting. The Washingtom M. uses a fair bit of electricity (elevator and lighting at night). Part of the city's architectural heritage.

Conclusion

The Washington Monument is a landmark on the capital's skyline and it is difficult no to see it given the number of attractions around the National Mall. If you schedule your trip several weeks in advance, remember to book 30 days before your preferred date.

Key positive

Simple and elegant architecture

Great views from the top

Free admission

Key negative

Waiting line if tickets not booked in advance

Cumbersome security

Suitability

Accessible to visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in August 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Closed on 04 July and 25 Dec + 1 day per month for maintenance

av. transport time:0h 20m

est. visit time:0h 45m

Regulated hours

Monday09:00 - 17:00

Tuesday09:00 - 17:00

Wednesday09:00 - 17:00

Thursday09:00 - 17:00

Friday09:00 - 17:00

Saturday09:00 - 17:00

Sunday09:00 - 17:00

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
US$1
Adult
12 - 64
US$1
Child
2 - 11
US$1
Infant
0 - 1
US$0
$1.00 service charge per ticket for advance bookings

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