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A short distance from the MLK memorial. Franklin D. Roosevelt is remembered for his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II. His has the longest term of presidency. There are statues of people lined up for food ration, his wheelchair and many more, including the First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and the United Nations.
This is my favorite monument around Tidal Basin. This goes for nighttime and day time touring. For starters, it's much bigger and better than just these 2 statues pictured. There are four large, flat, open areas with inspiring quotes engraved on the walls -- the 4 sections representing FDR's four terms in office. Great for walking through, sitting on a bench, there's plenty of shade and also direct sun if you brought a book here or something. The water feature is the best part and probably what sets this one apart from the others around Tidal Badin. It adds a sense of liveliness but also serenity and peacefulness. Nighttime = wayy less crowded, the water feature is loud and brings everything to life, still a great view of everything along the water (fireworks had gone off at night when we went because the Friday night Nationals baseball game so that was a great touch). Day time: More picture perfect since the lighting, can read the engravings more clearly, but it's more crowded.
The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is located in West Potomac Park between the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials. Pres Clinton dedicated the FDR Memorial in. 1997. It is dDifferent from the previous presidential memorials, because it uses elements of stone, water & landscaping to tell the story of FDR's presidency in a more approachable way. Quotes are at eye level and the statues are at or close to ground level & are meant to be touched. The memorial consists of 5 outdoor rooms- one as a prologue and four for the unprecedented four terms of FDR. The fountains and pools placed throughout the memorial represent the important role water played in FDR's life. The water features and the stones also help set the tone during different times in his presidency, from the reflection to chaos. The Prologue Room was added in 2001, funded by the National Organization on Disability with private donations. It features a bronze sculpture of FDR sitting in a wheelchair. The sculpture is life sized and sits away from the wall for maximum accessibility. FDR was diagnosed with polio at 39 yrs and had very limited use of his legs. The chair in the statue depicts one FDR designed himself from a kitchen chair and tricycle wheels. Everyone knew that FDR suffered from polio, but he hid the extent of his disability from the public & was rarely seen or photographed in a wheelchair. The rest of the memorial focuses on what happened during FDR's presidency. The architect described his design: "In the FDR Memorial I hoped to evoke as many emotions and approaches as I could. I wanted the experience of this Memorial to reveal the dramatic story that unfolded during President Roosevelt's four terms, the twelve years when he was president of the United States. His was a hero's journey--from the urgency of his first term of office and the New Deal, through his struggles to overcome the Great Depression, through the trauma of World War II, and finally to his search for an honorable and everlasting peace." FDR died of a stroke in 1945, a few months into his fourth term of office. There is also a statue of First Lady Eleanor, the only depiction of a First Lady in a presidential memorial. Behind her hangs the emblem of the United Nations. Eleanor was the 1st U.S. delegate & she helped craft the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights after FDR's death. A timeline of FDR's life is carved into the steps of this room's amphitheater.
The FDR memorial was larger in scale than I expected but designed to recognize his challenges and accomplishments over his four terms as President. I entered the memorial coming from the Jefferson Memorial which was in reverse order starting with FDR's fourth term. I don't think it mattered where one started as each section contained highlights of the term, quotes, sculptures, waterfalls and more. Information was also printed in braille and some markers had audio as well. The memorial also showed FDR in his own design of wheelchair. A fact that was obscured through most of his presidency. His wife, Eleanor, and dog were also shown unlike other presidential memorials.
This memorial is literally off to the side of the beaten trail of the other, more frequently visited monuments of the Tidal Basin loop. And that's a good thing. It's thoughtfully laid out; has multiple, stimulating parts known as "rooms" which capture the atmosphere of the times and stir up memories. FDR was President when my parents were young adults, just starting off in life. They grew up in the Great Depression and my dad served in the US military in WWII. I come here to reflect upon that, and to honor their many sacrifices as well as those of others. I find the two sculptures of FDR, one with his dog, another in a wheelchair with iconic hat and sunglasses, to be endearing. Various other life-sized sculptures of the bread lines and hard times of the Great Depression are excellent and solemn. Good place to bring children to discuss what our country was going through at the time. Lovely space to take photos; lots of greenery, with attractive architectural and water elements, along with historical quotes.
What I loved about DC is going to all of the memorials. Lincoln being the busiest but you also have some that are kind of hidden. The FDR memorial was definitely less crowded and not many people were over here. The statues of Eleanor and FDR with his dog are huge when standing next to them. You'll see more statues that represent the stages of his life (Great Depression, WW2, FDR in a wheelchair). You'll see quotes and a beautiful waterfall. I can't speak for parking because we walked everywhere. It's a great way to get your exercise in.
Many people don't visit this Memorial compared to the more famous ones like MLK and Jefferson or Lincoln. It makes for an awesome walk or bike ride if you are interested. The FDR Memorial is sprawling, there are four separate sections, each of them focusing on a different period in his presidency. There are many "Easter Eggs" to hunt for as you walk through the different areas. The FDR Memorial works well with the MLK and Jefferson Memorials if you are up for a walk and want to spend a couple hours in the area
The Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial is located near the Tidal Basin south of the National Mall. It's south of the MLK Memorial and might be slightly out of the way but it is totally worth the visit. First of all, it's HUGE! I thought it was just a small memorial and then we continued walking south and we came upon more of it. And just when we thought we were finally done there were even more famous quotes and monuments. It's probably one of the biggest memorials in the area which might be why it's off the beaten path because it needs the space. The memorial speaks to both FDR and his wife Eleanor. It starts at the prologue of his life and goes on through all of the different periods of his life, especially his terms as the President of the United States. There's also a small waterfall in between and a lot to quotes to ponder. There's a lot to read and if we had more time I would've definitely spent more time reading all of the different walls about him and his life. If you have the time, it's worth to learn about a historic and important time in American history and the President who led the country through it.
I found this to be a very moving memorial, among those we saw on the trolley tour. Not only is it a rather contemplative walk, past trees and water, but it also incorporates FDR's experiences as president (the Great Depression and WWII) realized in sculptures and his quotations. Particularly meaningful are his quotes: "I have seen war. I have seen war on land and sea. I have seen blood running from the wounded...I have seen the dead in the mud. I have seen cities destroyed...I have seen children starving. I have seen the agony of mothers and wives. I hate war." And "We must scrupulously guard the civil rights and civil liberties of all our citizens, whatever their background. We must remember that any oppression, any injustice, any hatred, is a wedge designed to attack our civilization." You might not think to visit this memorial, but it is very worthwhile and still applicable today.
Another memorial I regret not visiting in the past. This one is probably my favorite in the way it's laid out, the message and imagery it projects and the just plain beauty of the area. I bet when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, this place is just drop dead gorgeous. The quotes on the wall really struck me. So many of the things he spoke about, about the condition of our country, are still true to this day. While this is pretty sad, the idea that people can come here and learn some history through art and maybe, hopefully, change for the better, gives me hope. There's lot to see here, so take your time and meander through. It's well worth it.
The FDR Memorial is a few memorials in one! Really interesting stories about the symbolism here and what's going on. It was a lot to try to walk through on our short Night Bike of the Monuments Tour, but my second time being here- and always impactful of the difficult time that America was going through. The Food Line, the Great Depression, FDR in a wheelchair, Eleanor Roosevelt- it's so impactful. The water features here are amazing. We visited on a mild summer evening and it was the perfect uncrowded time to be able to absorb it all. Oh, plus there's bathrooms here! (Pro tip, for all you tourists and D.C. runners, walkers and bikers).
If you are visiting DC seeing the monuments and memorials are a must. The FDR Memorial is on the Tidal Basin Loop trail. I loved all of the waterfall fixtures and quotes. It is a must visit if you want to see the memorial that honors Eleanor, Franklin and Fala (the Scottish Terrier) Roosevelt.
I've visited the FDR Memorial for leisure a few times before, however, most recently I've been able to appreciate the memorial for its tribute to FDR. Not until you read all the messages and quotes inscribed on each and every stone wall do you realize how vast the memorial grounds is and FDR's impact on the nation as president and as an American. The construction of the memorial is very creative and embraces the former president's modest lifestyle resulting from a polio diagnosis that would limit the use of his legs. This condition would eventually enable him to better connect with the everyday American and spirit of the nation at the time of his presidency. Many of the statues, wall quotes, and fountains are situated at eye level or within arms reach to promote maximum accessibility; a construction commitment taking into consideration persons with disabilities. The memorial does an excellent job of depicting the FDR the person, the American, as well as the former Commander in Chief. The memorial gives a great history lesson on FDR's influence and leadership during the twelve years of his presidency which managed struggles like the Great Depression, WWII, and the New Deal, all of which were defining moments shaping the future of America. There is plenty tree coverage throughout the memorial, providing shade on hot summer days. There is also ample seating throughout the memorial to take breaks from walking or simply to pause to reflect or take in the tranquility produced by the calming waterfalls or adjacent Tidal Basin. There are also restrooms on site. Strategically located near the Tidal Basin, a recurring theme at this memorial is flowing water which is symbolic of the president's personal life and achievements during his four presidential terms. There is ample street parking along the entrance and Ohio Drive. Plan to arrive early or later in the evening to avoid tours buses and groups. Overall, an excellent free activity on The National Mall that serves as both educational and a relaxing pit stop. read more
This is a really amazing memorial for FDR and has a lot of historical learnings. There is so much to explore so grab a map from the Gift Shop for both the FDR Memorial as well as the National Mall. These are NationalPark service maps and they're free and a lot more clearer and accurate than other maps that cost you money. We, at first, thought it was just a very short memorial with a waterfall; but, then we pealed back the layers and quickly realized how deep the memorial goes. Walk to the water's edge as you may get an amazing view of the Washington monument as well as the Jefferson memorial. A++ Experience. read more
3 months ago
It was a cool stop! Saw some ducks. Nice place in Washington DC for some cool photos. the gift shop looked cool read more
A short distance from the MLK memorial. Franklin D. Roosevelt is remembered for his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II. His has the longest term of presidency. There are statues of people lined up for food ration, his wheelchair and many more, including the First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and the United Nations. read more
This is my favorite monument around Tidal Basin. This goes for nighttime and day time touring. For starters, it's much bigger and better than just these 2 statues pictured. There are four large, flat, open areas with inspiring quotes engraved on the walls -- the 4 sections representing FDR's four terms in office. Great for walking through, sitting on a bench, there's plenty of shade and also direct sun if you brought a book here or something. The water feature is the best part and probably what sets this one apart from the others around Tidal Badin. It adds a sense of liveliness but also serenity and peacefulness. Nighttime = wayy less crowded, the water feature is loud and brings everything to life, still a great view of everything along the water (fireworks had gone off at night when we went because the Friday night Nationals baseball game so that was a great touch). Day time: More picture perfect since the lighting, can read the engravings more clearly, but it's more crowded. read more
The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is located in West Potomac Park between the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials. Pres Clinton dedicated the FDR Memorial in. 1997. It is dDifferent from the previous presidential memorials, because it uses elements of stone, water & landscaping to tell the story of FDR's presidency in a more approachable way. Quotes are at eye level and the statues are at or close to ground level & are meant to be touched. The memorial consists of 5 outdoor rooms- one as a prologue and four for the unprecedented four terms of FDR. The fountains and pools placed throughout the memorial represent the important role water played in FDR's life. The water features and the stones also help set the tone during different times in his presidency, from the reflection to chaos. The Prologue Room was added in 2001, funded by the National Organization on Disability with private donations. It features a bronze sculpture of FDR sitting in a wheelchair. The sculpture is life sized and sits away from the wall for maximum accessibility. FDR was diagnosed with polio at 39 yrs and had very limited use of his legs. The chair in the statue depicts one FDR designed himself from a kitchen chair and tricycle wheels. Everyone knew that FDR suffered from polio, but he hid the extent of his disability from the public & was rarely seen or photographed in a wheelchair. The rest of the memorial focuses on what happened during FDR's presidency. The architect described his design: "In the FDR Memorial I hoped to evoke as many emotions and approaches as I could. I wanted the experience of this Memorial to reveal the dramatic story that unfolded during President Roosevelt's four terms, the twelve years when he was president of the United States. His was a hero's journey--from the urgency of his first term of office and the New Deal, through his struggles to overcome the Great Depression, through the trauma of World War II, and finally to his search for an honorable and everlasting peace." FDR died of a stroke in 1945, a few months into his fourth term of office. There is also a statue of First Lady Eleanor, the only depiction of a First Lady in a presidential memorial. Behind her hangs the emblem of the United Nations. Eleanor was the 1st U.S. delegate & she helped craft the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights after FDR's death. A timeline of FDR's life is carved into the steps of this room's amphitheater. read more
The FDR memorial was larger in scale than I expected but designed to recognize his challenges and accomplishments over his four terms as President. I entered the memorial coming from the Jefferson Memorial which was in reverse order starting with FDR's fourth term. I don't think it mattered where one started as each section contained highlights of the term, quotes, sculptures, waterfalls and more. Information was also printed in braille and some markers had audio as well. The memorial also showed FDR in his own design of wheelchair. A fact that was obscured through most of his presidency. His wife, Eleanor, and dog were also shown unlike other presidential memorials. read more
This memorial is literally off to the side of the beaten trail of the other, more frequently visited monuments of the Tidal Basin loop. And that's a good thing. It's thoughtfully laid out; has multiple, stimulating parts known as "rooms" which capture the atmosphere of the times and stir up memories. FDR was President when my parents were young adults, just starting off in life. They grew up in the Great Depression and my dad served in the US military in WWII. I come here to reflect upon that, and to honor their many sacrifices as well as those of others. I find the two sculptures of FDR, one with his dog, another in a wheelchair with iconic hat and sunglasses, to be endearing. Various other life-sized sculptures of the bread lines and hard times of the Great Depression are excellent and solemn. Good place to bring children to discuss what our country was going through at the time. Lovely space to take photos; lots of greenery, with attractive architectural and water elements, along with historical quotes. read more
2 years ago
What I loved about DC is going to all of the memorials. Lincoln being the busiest but you also have some that are kind of hidden. The FDR memorial was definitely less crowded and not many people were over here. The statues of Eleanor and FDR with his dog are huge when standing next to them. You'll see more statues that represent the stages of his life (Great Depression, WW2, FDR in a wheelchair). You'll see quotes and a beautiful waterfall. I can't speak for parking because we walked everywhere. It's a great way to get your exercise in. read more
Many people don't visit this Memorial compared to the more famous ones like MLK and Jefferson or Lincoln. It makes for an awesome walk or bike ride if you are interested. The FDR Memorial is sprawling, there are four separate sections, each of them focusing on a different period in his presidency. There are many "Easter Eggs" to hunt for as you walk through the different areas. The FDR Memorial works well with the MLK and Jefferson Memorials if you are up for a walk and want to spend a couple hours in the area read more
The Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial is located near the Tidal Basin south of the National Mall. It's south of the MLK Memorial and might be slightly out of the way but it is totally worth the visit. First of all, it's HUGE! I thought it was just a small memorial and then we continued walking south and we came upon more of it. And just when we thought we were finally done there were even more famous quotes and monuments. It's probably one of the biggest memorials in the area which might be why it's off the beaten path because it needs the space. The memorial speaks to both FDR and his wife Eleanor. It starts at the prologue of his life and goes on through all of the different periods of his life, especially his terms as the President of the United States. There's also a small waterfall in between and a lot to quotes to ponder. There's a lot to read and if we had more time I would've definitely spent more time reading all of the different walls about him and his life. If you have the time, it's worth to learn about a historic and important time in American history and the President who led the country through it. read more
4 years ago
I found this to be a very moving memorial, among those we saw on the trolley tour. Not only is it a rather contemplative walk, past trees and water, but it also incorporates FDR's experiences as president (the Great Depression and WWII) realized in sculptures and his quotations. Particularly meaningful are his quotes: "I have seen war. I have seen war on land and sea. I have seen blood running from the wounded...I have seen the dead in the mud. I have seen cities destroyed...I have seen children starving. I have seen the agony of mothers and wives. I hate war." And "We must scrupulously guard the civil rights and civil liberties of all our citizens, whatever their background. We must remember that any oppression, any injustice, any hatred, is a wedge designed to attack our civilization." You might not think to visit this memorial, but it is very worthwhile and still applicable today. read more
4 years ago
Another memorial I regret not visiting in the past. This one is probably my favorite in the way it's laid out, the message and imagery it projects and the just plain beauty of the area. I bet when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, this place is just drop dead gorgeous. The quotes on the wall really struck me. So many of the things he spoke about, about the condition of our country, are still true to this day. While this is pretty sad, the idea that people can come here and learn some history through art and maybe, hopefully, change for the better, gives me hope. There's lot to see here, so take your time and meander through. It's well worth it. read more
The FDR Memorial is a few memorials in one! Really interesting stories about the symbolism here and what's going on. It was a lot to try to walk through on our short Night Bike of the Monuments Tour, but my second time being here- and always impactful of the difficult time that America was going through. The Food Line, the Great Depression, FDR in a wheelchair, Eleanor Roosevelt- it's so impactful. The water features here are amazing. We visited on a mild summer evening and it was the perfect uncrowded time to be able to absorb it all. Oh, plus there's bathrooms here! (Pro tip, for all you tourists and D.C. runners, walkers and bikers). read more
4 years ago
If you are visiting DC seeing the monuments and memorials are a must. The FDR Memorial is on the Tidal Basin Loop trail. I loved all of the waterfall fixtures and quotes. It is a must visit if you want to see the memorial that honors Eleanor, Franklin and Fala (the Scottish Terrier) Roosevelt. read more
3 years ago
A beautiful and fitting memorial for an amazing president There are many memorials throughout Washington, DC. This one is sandwiched between the Potomac River and the tidal basin just to the south of the MLK Memorial and north of the Jefferson Memorial. There is some parking on the street on the north side of the site. The entrance is on the north side of the entire site 7.5-acre site. It consists of four outdoor "rooms", each one representing one of FDR's four terms in office. Each "room" is an open-air tribute to an era of his term. Each area has statues and sayings unique to that period. The memorial is an impressive and thoughtful tribute to FDR's life and legacy, featuring numerous statues, quotes, and water features. The statues depict FDR in a variety of poses, from sitting in his wheelchair to standing and delivering a speech. The water features, which include waterfalls and a reflecting pool, are a nod to FDR's love of water and sailing. One of the most striking features of the FDR Memorial is the series of 12 bronze bas-relief panels, which depict scenes from the Great Depression and World War II. These panels serve as a reminder of the challenges that FDR faced during his presidency and his leadership during some of the most difficult times in American history. Overall, the FDR Memorial is a moving and beautiful tribute to one of America's most important presidents. The attention to detail, the use of water and light, and the careful consideration of FDR's life and legacy make this a must-see destination for anyone visiting Washington DC. read more
3 years ago
PROS: First time i've actually been here and it was nice. this presidential memorial is different from others because you walk through sections of this property learning more about FDR. Statues are in great condition, theres a gift shop, and there are beautiful waterfalls in the summer CONS: There's no place to park and its out of the way from the other memorials. The gift shop closes early. OVERALL: Plan some extra time to see this during early afternoon hours and aim for the summer. You will love it here read more
5 years ago
President Franklin D Roosevelt also known as FDR was one of our most beloved leaders in every way. Having served the longest presidency (12 years ) to be exact, I could not skip visiting this memorial dedicated to him. Known for his optimism and courage through the Great Depression, it was no surprise that a memorial was made in his honor spread over 7 acres along the Cherry Tree Walk in West Potomac Park. Here at Franklin F Roosevelt Memorial, you will discover many sculptures on likeness of him, his dog and of course First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. In addition to this, you will also encounter other sculptures that depict the Great Depression. Another treat you will find, are 5 man-made water works --- all that represent the 5 major events during FDR's presidency. Of the 5 man-made water works are the Single Large Drop, Multiple Stairstep Drops, Chaotic Falls, and a still pool. All are significant points to FDR's presidency and what he brought to the world. read more
After seeing all the memorials the FDR memorial was a new one for me on this trip. You can find it on the path that goes to the right side of the tidal basin heading towards the Jefferson memorial. There is a lot to this memorial and it tells the tale of the stages of FDRs presidency. I liked the fire side talks statue and FDRs dog was there too. Definitely worth seeing as it is a nice walk and a beautiful area to see. read more
4 years ago
"Yesterday, December 7, 1941--a date which will live in infamy." After the notorious Pearl Harbor attack, a tsunami of anti-Japanese sentiments, fear and suspicion spread around the United States. The war was over in 1945. Japan became a good friend of the United States. He doesn't have to fear Tojo, Kamikaze, etc. FDR memorial is with cherry trees and flowers from Japan. I saw his wheelchair statue and cherry flowers over his head. Rest In Peace. Mr.Roosevelt. read more
7 years ago
Of all the memorials I visited during my recent trip to DC, one of the most sobering was this one. Roosevelt was president during some of the most trying times our country has ever faced, and this memorial pays homage to many of those struggles. It begins with a statue of President Roosevelt, and features several different podiums devoted to different trials he faced during his term. From immigration, to war, to the Depression there we're very poignant displays dedicated to this, one of our most esteemed leaders. From a purely logistical standpoint, I also appreciated that this Memorial featured a lot of shady areas and places to sit and ponder. It was a warm day when I was there, and I appreciated the respite from the hot sun. read more
4 years ago
The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, located in West Potomac Park, between the Tidal Basin an Potomac River, is my favorite memorial in Washington D.C. The memorial, designed by Lawrence Halprin, has five expansive rooms, including an entry room and one room for each of FDR's terms as President. The memorial fittingly pays tribute to one of our nation's greatest presidents by highlighting his accomplishments and emphasizing how his battle with polio made him an even stronger man. The memorial is accessible by including braille text at low height. The FDR Memorial is a nice respite from the humidity with dense foliage and peaceful sounds from the water features. The memorial also humanizes the President by depicting him in a wheelchair, including a statue of his dog, and honoring his wife, Eleanor's, service as First Lady and delegate to the United Nations. read more
OK, I am not going to write reviews of all the monuments and memorials in DC. They are all iconic American treasures and everyone should go see them all. That said...be sure to not miss this one! I'm embarrassed to say, that this was the first time I took the side path off the trail around the basin to see the FDR Memorial. Wow, this is well done. It is much more extensive than I assumed and takes a bit of time to walk through and appreciate everything.; it is very much worth the detour off the basin path. It is incredibly moving and the quotes are extremely applicable to our current times. read more
8 years ago
One thing about this memorial is that you can have a different experience depending on the season you visit. I just happened to be here when it was transitioning between winter and spring. It kind of has a muted feeling about it in this time because of the foliage around it hadn't started to bloom yet and the waters were not running. One thing that I noticed as well is that there is no real starting or ending point. You can go about this memorial in any way you feel. I am sure others will say that you should start at one end or the other, but I honestly started in the middle and went about my way. It is a touching memorial that chronicles FDR. From the Great Depression to WWII. When you stroll around the paths it kind of has a soothing effect on you. Next time I visit I will be sure to do so during either the spring or summer so that I can sit in the area and take in the surroundings. I know it will be much more livelier with the sounds and sights. read more
The FDR Memorial is the most recent of presidential memorials. It has been open for a couple decades and still looks like it's in good shape. This is a ways away from most of the popular touristy stuff. It's one of the most detailed memorials. There's lots of quotes and statues to check out. I first came here when it still had lots of hype. It was the first presidential memorial opened in many years since the last one. The last one was the Jefferson Memorial, which was coincidentally opened during Roosevelt's term. It remains the most recently opened presidential memorial. There have been memorials to other important people opened since then. It featured many of his famous quotes throughout the exhibit. Of course the most famous of these, "We have nothing to fear but fear itself," is featured prominently. It's located above the statues of Roosevelt and his dog Fala. When I typed that it went and autocorrected to falafel; wouldn't that have been a cool name? Other quotes are featured throughout the exhibit. There's a few that are referring to his policies, like the creation of Social Security. A few are more personal. One is about his thoughts on war, stating that he hated it. Unfortunately for him a significant part of his presidency took place during World War II, which certainly affected his health mentally and physically. Also included is a statue of Eleanor. She was one of the first significant First Ladies, who could influence opinion and policy. It has many details compared to other memorials. It also has a gift shop adjacent to it. The MLK Memorial is nearby so it's convenient to see both of these. read more
7 years ago
Well designed site. But FDR laments the state of this disappointment. Uncleared brush. Chains all over the place. Garbage. Broken fountains. Each water fall was caput (don't ask how; it's surrounded by water). Come if you want to be snapped into 15 foreign tourists' photograph albums. Rebel review: 3 star read more
We went at night during a driving tour. It was a unique experience as it was really dark except for a few lit displays. Most of the cool carvings and quotes were not lit so it was tough to read. But it was still nice to walk around and see the areas that were lit, it looks great at night. I think I would have preferred to go in the daytime to see everything first and then go back and see it at night so I didn't mind missing out on the info and murals. Great walking areas, quiet, and a very different place compared to some of the more popular and dense tourist areas. I would come back here to spend more time. read more
Surprisingly satisfying! I only stopped at this one because it was on the way to the Jefferson Memorial. However, I spent most of my night here as this one is very large with lots of walking as you're taken through FDR's terms as POTUS. It is very immersive in that you have to walk through the area as you would a museum. An excellent bonus is that it's right along the Potomac River and in the middle of the night the area can be very peaceful. Be sure to stick around for when the tour groups stop and the powerful presence will overtake you in the best way. I visited at night and the lighting in many places was good. However, I wish they would light all the quotes carved into the walls so they are not missed and so great photos can be taken. Using camera flash to illuminate the words is harsh. A pro tip: ~Be ready to use a camera that can take long exposures and/or a lens that a low F-stop like 1.8 . With a light source like the flashlight from a cell phone you can engage in some fun light painting along the Potomac River! read more
In my opinion, one of the best memorials in DC. It's more spread out and has different sections along the path for the different terms of FDR's presidency. I actually thought FDR served three terms (I guess that's why I didn't pass the history AP test in high school!), and was surprised when I saw the 4th term designated on the steps. The water fixtures around the memorial are beautiful! https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/franklin-delano-roosevelt-memorial-washington?select=AJ6XflfeYEREcKWk7EE0DA&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/franklin-delano-roosevelt-memorial-washington?select=R2k_J2vWmvrU3zXA-raqaQ&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/franklin-delano-roosevelt-memorial-washington?select=FE6WT6PXrPYaCCoK5BWJlA&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/franklin-delano-roosevelt-memorial-washington?select=xhHTOUcpwH3PuP6NC8sz9g&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/franklin-delano-roosevelt-memorial-washington?select=4WFrYiYmz75eJbXGrx3RKg&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/franklin-delano-roosevelt-memorial-washington?select=-3o1Kxi75NE3Jw1_5lwCmg&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg read more
9 years ago
This memorial does not get the credit it deserves! I didn't read much about it while planning my trip to DC but fortunately the bike tour that I signed up for included in within the tour. The grounds are beautiful! Very well kept. It is set up into different parts to symbolize the different years within FDR's presidency. There were some very unique aspects to this memorial that I really appreciated: 1. A sculpture of Eleanor, wife of FDR. She was the longest standing First Lady and an activist. I appreciated having a female highlighted in such a historic memorial. 2. FDR was typically shown with a blanket over his wheelchair. ADA had commissioned a statue right outside of the memorial of him in a wheelchair. It was so well done, with so much respect and seeing a child also in a wheelchair next to this statue saying excitedly "he has a chair just like me" gave me chills. 3. The statue of Fala, FDR's Scottish Terrier. The first dog's have really made a name for themselves! 4. FDR's quotes all over the walls. You know the quotes and they still hold very true to this day. It's a must see while in the area! Bikers note, you must walk your bike in the memorial out of respect. read more
7 years ago
I loved all the memorials in DC- they are powerful, humbling and remind us of the history and the strength of our leaders and our country. This one was a beautiful walk- the only thing missing was the water. For me, that would have elevated this to 5 stars- apparently the system was flooded out of the winter and has yet to be repaired. Hubby was very disappointed that it wasn't in its fully glory. I especially loved the dedication and statue for Eleanor Roosevelt and understand no other first lady in history has a monument in DC. Pretty powerful stuff. read more
FEARLESS One of America's greatest presidents is suitably honored with this wonderfully hidden gem of a memorial. Perhaps the most unexpected surprise of my D.C. landmark visits, this totally underrated and off-the-radar tribute to the late great Franklin Delano Roosevelt sees a lot less foot traffic that those monuments built to Lincoln, Jefferson, or Washington. This is likely due to its location south of West Potomac Park, on the other side of Independence Avenue. Tourists will notice that this memorial is split up into four unique sections - one for each of FDR's terms in office. These "rooms" are spread out over a large area of 7.5 acres, making it the largest of the presidential attractions. There are several bronze sculptures depicting scenes from the Great Depression, like waiting in a bread line and listening to FDR's legendary fireside chats. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt is also honored, thanks to her dedication to the United Nations. This is the only one of the major D.C. memorials to honor a First Lady. #girlpower The designer's intent was to create a memorial that was accessible to anyone with physical impairments (which makes perfect sense, given FDR's well-known affliction with polio, costing him full mobility and tragically confining him to a wheelchair). In an unfortunate -- and tremendously ironic -- twist, this memorial came under scrutiny from disability activist groups for featuring inaccurate braille placement....that was also located 8 feet off the ground. #designflaws Man-made waterfalls are prominently featured and cover much of the 7-1/2 acre site. Each waterfall becomes more imposing and complex as you progress through the memorial, signifying a time in our country when things became increasingly chaotic. Of interesting note is that when this opened on 5/2/97, visitors were allowed to wade into the fountains and waterfalls, but fearing guest safety, park services quickly put the kibosh on that. ((on a lighter note, what I want to know is: where's the tribute to Franklin Delano Bluth, Gob's vulgar mouthed puppet from Arrested Development?? He was black, then got thrown in the wash and became white, he deserves his own tribute too....)) The FDR memorial might be a little off the beaten path, but it was my favorite of the mem's I visited, which is why I took so many damn pictures. I highly recommend that those visiting the National Mall make a brief side trip to see this beautiful tribute to my 5th* favorite president. _________ *in ascending order: FDR, "Wild Bill" Clinton, "Rockin" Barack Obama, Big Teddy Rose, and Honest Abe make up my presidential fave 5. read more
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