Jefferson Memorial Photos
More like Jefferson Memorial
Recommended Reviews - Jefferson Memorial
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
On a clear day and also during cherry blossom season, the Jefferson Memorial is a spectator place to take in the skyline of Washington DC. From the monument you can see the White House, Washington Monument, MLK Memorial and so much more! If you have limited time in DC, make time for the Jefferson. If you plan to drive, give yourself 15 or so minutes to walk from the parking lot at 971 Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC 20024 to the actual memorial.
The Jefferson Memorial building is a white marble, circular, open-air structure featuring a shallow dome supported by a circular colonnade composed of 26 columns. A flight of granite & marble stairs and platforms, lead up from the Tidal Basin. The bronze statue of Jefferson is 19 ft tall atop its pedestal, surrounded by columns, quotes from Jefferson with a coffered ceiling above. Four quotations from Jefferson's writings are carved into the walls of the memorial. An excerpt from the Declaration of Independence, which Jefferson is best known, is located on the southwest wall. The southeast wall features a statement on the evolution of law and the constitution, which was taken from a letter he wrote. The northwest wall is inscribed with a 6 quotations taken from Jefferson's "1786 Notes of Virginia" and "Summary Views," illustrating his beliefs in the evils of slavery and the need to educate the masses. The northeast wall contains a quote from the "Act of Religious Freedom," which was adopted in 1779 and eliminated the state church of Virginia; this quote expresses Jefferson's views on freedom of religion. A fifth quote encircles the memorial's interior. This quote "I have sworn upon the altar of God eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man," is taken from a1800 letter. There is an elevator that leads from the monument down to a gift shop, restrooms and exit. Is monument is accessible to the handicap.
Beautiful shrine to capture the contribution and essence of Thomas Jefferson. It has a beautiful outlook to the Train basin. One of few spots that has its own parking, but very hard to get as its always packed. It's free to enter, has a small gift store, not much to do other than admiring the statue m, the art and the location. The of Jefferson's most famous quotes are engraved in the marble walls of the dome. A wonderful tribute to one of the founding fathers of the nation.
The monument is heavily under construction but it's still such a great place to visit! The monument is beautiful and has all of Jefferson great works on the walls in the rotunda. The dome is beautiful and the views of the tidal basin is great as well! This is one of the prettiest spots in all of DC especially during the cherry blossoms festival!
A beautiful area to explore, it works well with the Roosevelt Memorial if you are up for a walk around the estuary. I love the views of the Washington Monument and the park grounds, especially at night. You will find that the Jefferson Memorial isn't as busy (or rowdy) as Lincolns Memorial, bit there can still be a crowd at peak times (nights and evenings) If you are up for a bit of a wall, there is a foot bridge around the estuary west of the Memorial that is a great spot to make a panoramic photo of the Washington and Jefferson monuments. It's also the way to Roosevelt's memorial.
The Jefferson Memorial is yet another must-see landmark to include on your visit to the National Mall and Washington D.C. Jefferson Memorial is a little bit of a walk away from the rest of the landmarks in the National Mall since it is located on the other side of the Tidal Basin. We went on a Saturday morning and I was quite surprised to see that there were only maybe 8-10 other people there. Once you walk inside, in the center area you will be met by a 19-foot bronze statue of Jefferson himself. Excerpts from the Declaration of Independence, among other timeless Jefferson quotes, adorn the interior panels of the Memorial. It was fantastic being able to take it all in without a ton of people there. The pics really don't do it justice. A couple of fun facts: - One of the original plans for the site was a Memorial site for Teddy Roosevelt - FDR was a great admirer of Jefferson and was a large sponsor and proponent for the building of this landmark. He even laid the cornerstone on November 15, 1939! - The outer structure is directly influenced by the Pantheon in Rome. - In 2007, it was ranked fourth on the "List of America's Favorite Architecture" by the American Institute of Architects I've said it many times before and I will say it again: Any trip to the Washington DC area is incomplete without a visit to this beautiful and majestic landmark! 5 stars.
The Jefferson Memorial is a lovely building and a fitting tribute to Jefferson. It's a short walk from The Washington Monument or The WWII Memorial and as such, it's definitely less visited than some of the other memorials/monuments. The memorial has a neoclassical architecture and the architect took inspiration from Jefferson's designs for UVA/Monticello and The Pantheon in Rome, the latter of which is very easy to see. It's a peaceful area and very nice to visit even outside of the Cherry Blossom festival. There was construction when we came here on Memorial Day Weekend, but it was still a lovely place to visit and I highly recommend that you come here when you're in D.C.!
The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is out of the way from the National Mall which is where we were coming from but we knew that it was a stop we had to make. To get here, we walked south from the National Mall, past the MLK and FDR memorials along the Tidal Basin and crossing the bridge (known as the Ohio Drive Bridge) to get here. It requires a lot of walking so if you're not able you can take the D.C. Circulator bus for a small fee. It's majestic on the outside and beautiful on the inside. When you walk up the steps to get inside, you'll see a huge statue of Thomas Jefferson right in the center. All around the walls you'll see important quotes from him. From the steps of the memorial you can see the beaming National Monument. Unfortunately part of it was under construction when we went but we got to see enough. There's also a bookstore and gift shop at the top which was interesting (but not surprising) for such a historic monument. I've heard a lot of the Jefferson Memorial's popularity during the cherry blossom festival. If you get a chance to stop by during that time I'd take advantage of it!
4 years ago
I visited the Jefferson Memorial on April 4th, 2022. Fortunately, I was able to see the cherry flowers from Japan. I took a lot of pictures from the other side of the memorial. I arrived at the memorial. I read the United States Declaration of Independence. " All the men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness". I still can see his legacy in Japan. The Japanese constitution. Article 13. All of the people shall be respected as individuals. Their right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness shall, to the extent that it does not interfere with the public welfare, be the supreme consideration in legislation and in other governmental affairs. Thank you, Mr.Jefferson. read more
6 years ago
It's a bit out of the way and if you're walking you might say, eh too far. Please don't. If the Lincoln Memorial is awe inspiring, majestic and maybe a little intimidating (?) then I would describe the Jefferson Memorial as a more reflective monument. Jefferson certainly was brilliant and complicated. read more
This memorial is beautiful. The interior dome is somewhat taller than the ceiling in the Lincoln memorial, and there are views on all sides through the columns. There is more written information and public restrooms in the lower lobby. read more
4 years ago
Went to Memorial during fall weather, love it because it was not crowded and plenty of parking available. Thomas Jefferson was born 1743-1826. He was one the key person in signing the Declaration of Independence. He was the 3 president of the United States. Jefferson has many building name after him in different states. The memorial is surrounded by Cherry tree that beautiful during the spring time. This is memorable moment of Washington DC. I came to see it even though now was cold and of course crowded is worth seeing. read more
When I was a U.S. Citizenship instructor, I used to prepare my students for their citizenship interviews by teaching the 100 Civics questions. As an essential part of American history, Thomas Jefferson was question #62 as the drafter of the Declaration of Independence. Something I'm sure all of us have heard again and again in our social studies/history classes. This memorial was close to the Tidal Basin as we passed by to see the Cherry Blossoms. Watch your steps as you walk up to the memorial especially if it's raining. The memorial is shaped like a dome. The Jefferson statue was standing tall in the middle surrounded by flowers. History was written on walls surround the statue. This is a popular tourist site, so take turns of you want a pic with Jefferson. There is also a small gift shop by the front entrance. Simple t-shirts and sweaters for purchase. From the memorial, you have a wonderful view of the Washington monument. A-must when you're in D.C.! read more
8 years ago
I cannot believe it took me all these years to finally visit the Jefferson Memorial. I have been to DC many times over the years and never had a chance until recently to visit this. I'm also going to be honest with you all, I had no clue where this memorial was in relation to all the other memorials. So on my extra day that I decided to stay after a recent conference I made it my mission to find this place. Trekking to this place makes for a nice stroll. Passing other memorials, gardens, and waters along the way. Giving you some great shots of the surrounding area. Once here you do not realize how massive it is. In pictures that I have seen I always thought that this was a modest memorial, I was wrong. Especially if you are standing at the bottom of the steps and looking up. Another truth for you all, I had no clue as to what was inside this place. It's not like the Lincoln Memorial where you have seen many pictures of what was inside. The statue of Thomas Jefferson is beautiful. If you time it just right you can nail a great picture of the statue. Another huge surprise was that there is more to this memorial than the actual memorial and statue. They just hitting me left and right with surprises here. Going down the staircase you are greeted by a rather nice, modern looking exhibit. Also below is a gift shop. Glad I finally was able to visit here and check it off my list of memorials to see. read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
This monument forms a nice bookend for a DC tourist walk with the Lincoln memorial. You can start at the Lincoln Memorial steps, walk around through the Korean War Memorial, The MLK Jr memorial, and the FDR memorial, and then end at The Jefferson memorial. You'll have the water to your left as you walk, and if you go in spring, you'll get to see the famed cherry blossoms in bloom. And there's something about that domed rotunda that really says neoclassical to me. Much like Jefferson the man, the shape feels multidimensional. There's a gift shop somewhere below from the looks of the signs, and if you continue on northeast, you can get to the Smithsonian and it's Metro station on the mall in about ten minutes. read more
I mean, what's not to love? Aside from all the people standing in my way making my Instagram photo harder to take... The place is amazing. The history, the grounds, the oppulance of it all. It's still so clean and well taken care of. The museum inside is worth walking through under the monument and there is a bathroom there too. Bonus. read more
Nice to walk and take photos around the leveled pathway of the Tidal Basin to the south bank to visit this memorial. Inside is the commemorative 19' tall stately bronze Jefferson statue looking towards The White House (directly north) while holding the Declaration of Independence in his left hand. Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) was the 1. main author of the Declaration of Independence ("all men are created equal") 2. 3rd President from 1801-09 (2nd was John Adams & 4th James Madison) 3. 1st Secretary of State for newly formed USA (the appointed chief foreign affairs advisor to President) 4. slave owner (to 600+ in his lifetime) Can see the WA Monument (& maybe The White House & Lincoln Memorial) from the TJ Memorial. From the SW bank of the Tidal Basin can see views of both Jefferson & the Washington memorial at the same time. Architect John Russell Pope designed the neoclassical architecture with inspiration from Jefferson's Monticello, UofVa Rotunda and the Pantheon of Rome. 1. granite & marble terraced steps, 2. portico (roofed porch with 12 columns support), 3. triangular pediment with sculpture of 5 committee members submitting the Declaration of Independence to Congress, 4. open air rotunda (round room) with a colonnade of 26 ionic columns 5. coffered (series of sunken squares) dome edge & smooth center ceiling Materials came from at least 5different states 1. memorial used White Imperial Danby marble from Vermont, 2. interior used white Georgia marble 3. floor used pink Tennessee marble 4. interior used Indiana limestone 5. statue pedestal used Minnesota granite Quotes around the interior 1. SW wall: from Declaration of Independence 2. SE wall: evolution of law & the constitution to changing times 3. NW wall: evils of slavery & education for masses 4. NE wall: Freedom of Religion 5. Interior Frieze: against tyranny over the mind of man History 1912: Japan gives 3K cherry trees that now circle the man-made Tidal Basin (once a swimming area for whites only from 1918-25 until closed down to avoid desegregation) 1937: placement of memorial decided on direct N-S line with The White House on the south side of Tidal Basin 1938: construction starts but also the Cherry Tree Rebellion where 50 women protested with petitions at The White House about the planned uprooting of 600 mostly cherry trees. The next day 150 tried to stop construction by chaining themselves to a tree or wrestling shovels away. FDR threatened to have the women transplanted along with the planned trees and the women retreated as a result but it did reduce the number of trees uprooted to 88 (to clear view of the White House and a bit of Lincoln Memorial) & it was done in the middle of the night. 1939-45 WWII: the Japanese cherry trees were temporarily called oriental cherry trees as a way to divert talk of replacing them with American trees 1943: (April 13) FDR dedicates TJ memorial on Jefferson's bicentennial (200th) bday 1947: with end of WWII & its restriction on metal, bronze statue replaces the one made out of plaster Bathroom can take elevators to the lower level with bathrooms, exhibits, staff offices and bookstore. read more
Brilliant show of majesty! This is my favorite monument on the National Mall. The site is beautiful from a distance and from up close. We rode bikes along The National Mall (highly recommended) and arrived here after dark (again, highly recommended both for the views and the lack of people around). Riding up to the monument while lights shone on it in the night was a real treat and built the anticipation to walk up close. As I walked towards it and up the steps, the humongous Jefferson statue revealed itself through the marble pillars. It's a display of power and grandeur as you stare it it. His body language is bold and he is surrounded by his quotes. I personally vibe with his positive opinions on the pursuit of knowledge. Make your way downstairs before 8pm to see the displays of him and his life. The area outside is quite impressive during sunset as you can watch the Washington Monument to the west across the Potomac River. During this time the whole monument glows golden and looks spectacular. *To preserve the solemnity, -please- visit when there are little to no other people around.* read more
5 years ago
Construction improvements When we visited But so much history to be had Colossal memorial leaves one in awe read more
THE GREAT AUTHOR Third time's the charm for this American president, a man also responsible for penning the Declaration of Independence. It's a good thing I'm a big fan of T.J. (or "the Teej" as I call him), since his memorial is chillin' all by itself on the other side of the Tidal Basin. It makes for some picturesque photo ops, but anyone without a bike or car has a loooooong way to walk to get here. While not as massive as the Lincoln Memorial, T.J. still has a larger-than-life statue of him standing inside. The neoclassical architecture is very easy on the eyes and the modest, perfectly-rounded domed structure attracts amateur and professional photographers alike. Although he advocated liberty and "unalienable rights", T.J. was known for having owned hundreds of slaves. Historians maintain that he treated them well however, giving them adequate provisions and even financial incentives which was unusual at the time. But that was then, this is now. Had the local cherry blossom trees been in full bloom when I visited, perhaps that would have pushed this landmark into 5* territory. Had I also visited at night or near dusk, that might've been the difference maker. It IS very cool, but it's NOT easy to get to and there isn't much room at all for parking. Visitors wishing to bask in the glory that is the Thomas Jefferson Memorial are gonna have to hoof it, so wear comfortable shoes. Worth seeing on your trip to Washington D.C, as long as you don't sacrifice other touristy stuff to do so. read more
Beautiful memorial on the tidal basin. We went during sunset and and it was stunning. However, the mosquitoes were quite heavy this time of day, but they were primarily at the base of the stairs, and were not bothersome once we were inside the monument. Beautiful carvings inside of excerpts from the Declaration of Independence. read more
A majestic memorial when viewed from a distance, it is even more massive up close. It overlooks the Tidal Basin, and there are great views of the Washington Monument as well. I walked here after the WWII memorial and it was a very scenic route. It was one of the more crowded memorials I visited, but definitely worth a visit! https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/thomas-jefferson-memorial-washington?select=4PheDM6c6iwd62ZUUajjkQ&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/thomas-jefferson-memorial-washington?select=k1ThTL7C9Si0H-SwFWskXQ&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/thomas-jefferson-memorial-washington?select=tZcjGATgA0aMMVIYj2nTsA&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/thomas-jefferson-memorial-washington?select=Xmj1MNebodwaxxm9oNCk5g&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/thomas-jefferson-memorial-washington?select=KkNA6HvPdkzueOCU0AsqBg&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/thomas-jefferson-memorial-washington?select=bkupv0zdlNf5uybluk0g6Q&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg read more
10 years ago
Bottom Line: A classic and sophisticated memorial to the third President. There are hundreds of memorials in Washington DC and one of the most famous is the memorial to Thomas Jefferson that sits on the edge of the Tidal Basin not too far from the famous Japanese Cherry Blossoms. Many of the best known and largest memorials in the federal city are on the National Mall and that includes the Jefferson Memorial. However, the Jefferson Memorial is on the far east side of the Tidal Basin so it's a little bit of a walk from other Mall memorials. The closest Metro station is the Smithsonian station and then it's about a one mile walk. Another option is to rent bikes from Capital Bike Share and to check out the many sites around the once swampy Tidal Basin. The marble memorial is beautiful at night and it glows white against the dark DC skyline. The memorial is also beautiful during the day and especially in the late Spring when the Japanese Cherry Blossom trees are in bloom. Jefferson appreciated neoclassic Roman architecture which he incorporated into his home and the University of Virginia so it is fitting that his memorial is also designed in this style. In fact, its design is based on the Pantheon in Rome. Inside the memorial is a 19 foot bronze statue of Thomas Jefferson and some inscriptions of his most famous writings. Thomas Jefferson was a lawyer from Virginia who spoke with a stutter but drafted the Declaration of Independence with eloquence and enlightment. He is either best known for being the third President of the United States and for drafting the Declaration of Independence; however, he was most proud of founding the University of Virginia. Thomas Jefferson was the original "most interesting man" and not just because of his forbidden love affair with Sally Hemmings. He was very curious and was interested in a vast array of topics including languages, mathmatics, physics, politics, foreign affairs, agriculture, higher education, architecture, philosophy, music and innovation. A visit to his home, Monticello in Charlotssville, VA (two hours southwest of DC) exemplifies his intellect and hobbies. read more
Everyone knows about the Lincoln Memorial but nobody ever gives Mr. Jefferson credit. As I do think the Lincoln Memorial is an awesome site I like this Memorial much better. I came here at night and was really nice to check out. It is not as packed so you can not be bothered with the hundreds of other tourists. It's secluded, it's almost as if you are on your own small island. I don't know their is something relaxing about it at night and you can look out to the national mall landscape. Nice view of Washington Memorial! Check it out if you have time and try coming at night. Come see this at night, it will be a difference. Good luck taking selfies! Enjoy! read more
I think this may be my favorite memorial in DC. Not because of whom Jefferson was, but because of the view. Something about the Potomac river with the Washington Monument in the background just gives this spot an incredibly picturesque feeling. In these days of COVID with most indoor dining options closed, I wouldn't mind eating lunch on the steps of this memorial while soaking in the view. The restrooms inside are also very clean and accessible, which is another huge plus. read more
A friend and I visited the memorial during a recent trip to DC because neither one of us had been there before (even though we've both been to DC itself multiple times). Honestly, it's a *must see* memorial if you're in Washington D.C., and I'm saddened it took me so long to get here. It is a bit off the typical National Mall path though. My friend and I grabbed lunch from a nearby gazebo-like stand, walked around the area, enjoyed the views of the Tidal Basin, wander into and appreciated the memorial itself, and just tried to embrace the space. We were there for a nice bit of time before ultimately walking back along the Tidal Basin towards the more typical portions of the National Mall. While the Jefferson Memorial is a popular location, it's not quite as crowded as other space along the Mall... and people do tend to appreciate the area and take care in not being too loud or active in the space. Always appreciated. TL;DR A bit off the beaten path, but worth it. Majestic views. (And I'd looooooove to go back when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.) read more
13 years ago
My 50-YR Relationship With American History DEFENDING AGAINST TYRANNY OF ORGANIZED RELIGION "Millions of innocent men, women and children, since the introduction of Christianity, have been burnt, tortured, fined and imprisoned; yet we have not advanced one inch towards uniformity." - THOMAS JEFFERSON arguing for the First Amendment's "Separation of Church & State" - 1787 SITREP Growing up in D.C. gave me tremendous access to important historical monuments & buildings, but most important - IDEAS & EVENTS - that affected me deeply. Suffice it to say the Jefferson Memorial is my biggest touchstone to these memories. And in some prescient way, seems eerily appropriate as the subject on the occasion of my 1000th Yelp review. THE SETUP The Memorial & Tidal Basin are (IMHO) the two most beautiful conjoined features of the D.C. landscape. The Memorial was completed in 1943 and the statue of Jefferson was added in 1947. The Tidal Basin covers an area of 107 acres and is 10 feet deep evenly at all points. [As part of the 2012 redesign of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, water from the Tidal Basin is now channeled to fill the pool.] FROM A KID'S VIEW Mom first took me here the day after the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963 when I was a 20-month old toddler. For her, Jefferson was HER touchstone of her own personal inspiration (something carried over into my personal philosophy of life). Thus when this tragedy struck, the Jefferson Memorial was a welcome sanctuary for her mind & spirit. Unfortunately for her, it became a repeated act of painful decompression again & again, more profoundly in 1968, first after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. in April, and tragically again in June after the assassination of Bobby Kennedy. As a child of six (6), the pain of these events was seared into my mind, both as my own memory, but also through the prism of her emotions. Bobby's death in fact broke her spirit since she was involved in his national Presidential campaign in D.C. An energetic activist during the 60s, my mom lost her political passion after Bobby's death. PILGRIMAGES But trips to the Memorial continued, and became more important and more complex in terms of "remembrance" since so many things were being revered, so when I revisit the Memorial, there is a lot of personal meaning impacting me when I step up into the rotunda and walk around the Tidal Basin in cool reflection of the past. A LIFE OF RESONANCE It is thought-provoking to know that through this intricate nexus, Jefferson was one of Bobby Kennedy's political heroes, as BOTH were my mom's heroes, and as my mom and they are MY heroes. So this memorial becomes much more to me than just a mere architectural edifice of marble & stone, but rather a wide flowing river of important beliefs of my own personal family history. JEFFERSONS' DEISM Tying back to my review's opening quote, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin and James Madison were modern Deists - and unlike their more Christian theistic colleagues - such as George Washington, John Adams and Alexander Hamilton - they were avidly against the imposition of any organized religion and fought ardently for the concept of "Freedom From Religion". For me the true testament of Jefferson's & Madison's constitutional genius & success is that unlike any other country during it's time, the United States in 1787 was the only country that did not have a State Religion. And the Constitution has had to continue to be strongly defended in the face of Christian evangelical movements through TWO centuries that try to uproot the 1st Amendment. The Constitution that they hammered out in Philadelphia is STILL the foundation that all freedoms - both declared at the time or later developed - are based upon. *WARNING: SPOILER-ALERT! ADULT-CONTENT FOLLOWS!* ;^D Yet in spite of the exposition above, there are some "lighter" escapades in my association with the Jefferson Memorial. When in high school, it was an easy thing to merge my passion for historical wonder at iconic monuments with my more youthful lusts. As a romantic stop, the Jefferson Memorial is da shit - for many, the Jefferson Memorial and surrounding Tidal Basin is a Lover's Lane of sorts. There were many tender moments of intimacy that were experienced by me with a dear sweet girlfriend all over the Jefferson Memorial grounds. All over..... out of view.... behind rotunda pillars.... in adjoining bushes... In fact, it was hard back in the day to NOT trip over other young couples who also found the passion of their personal love so intertwined with this historical figure and his memorial. So I found it amusing then, as I still do, that this marble & stone memorial can still be softened so easily by the laughter of young & old lovers alike. THE LOWDOWN A remarkable breath-taking memorial to a man, who for me, is the most important American Icon who ever lived. read more
![Jefferson Memorial - Greatest American who ever lived [20th High School Reunion Anniversary] - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia](https://s3-media0.fl.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/GW-147xhMJgxe0u_o2pPiA/348s.jpg "Jefferson Memorial - Greatest American who ever lived [20th High School Reunion Anniversary] - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia")
![Jefferson Memorial - Beautiful bright spring day [20th High School Reunion Anniversary] - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia](https://s3-media0.fl.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/oK0Fr4jIhfrhSbAfwlDslA/348s.jpg "Jefferson Memorial - Beautiful bright spring day [20th High School Reunion Anniversary] - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia")
10 years ago
One of the many great monuments in DC, this one took a while to walk to. As it does not sit directly with the other monuments in the National Mall, we had to take a 20 minute walk and cross a bridge to get here. The monument itself is beautiful. Getting to the statue of Thomas Jefferson requires walking up several flights of stairs. Once we walked in, we found ourselves in a spacious place with the statues right in the middle. There are engravings along the walls and the ceiling. There are views from the four openings to the building, and pillars line the view of each. I was impressed by this place, I would recommend it for anyone sightseeing in DC. read more
The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is majestic and grand and another good site to see when visiting Washington D.C. It is quite a scenic sight since it overlooking the tidal basin. As others have mentioned, this memorial seemed to be more quitter than others. It didn't seem quite as crowded as the Lincoln Memorial and was quite calm. The round design, the pillars overall makes this spot quite powerful and impactful. When you look to the side, you have quite a view of Washington DC and the Tidal Basin. read more
With a fitting tribute to one of the country's greatest founding fathers, this is a wonderful stretch in the heart of Washington's tidal basin. Monument history area downstairs was quite fascinating. Peaceful and serene atmosphere while smaller crowds observe with beautiful and scenic views. Bathrooms stand at this memorial, which is extremely convenient. Less to see compared to other surrounding buildings but definitely worth the extra mile as this will always be a meaningful memorial. read more
4 years ago
14 years ago
The Jefferson Memorial is simply stunning. We visited twice, once during daylight hours where we were just in time for a park ranger tour, and again during the late evening to see how it was lit up. It was noticeably calmer in the evening after the height-of-summer crowds had thinned out. We were able to stroll around quietly and enjoy a more peaceful experience. As at any national park or monument, I highly recommend taking the free tour, or at least talking to a park ranger. The rangers often go in-depth into the history of the building, share little known facts and wonderful "behind the scenes" type stories. It really enriches your visit! read more
Guilty: I double majored in Economics and History...but upon arrival at this monument, I realized I had no idea, off the top of my head, as to what made Thomas Jefferson famous...I had to do some Googling afterwards...apparently after returning from France, he introduced America to Mac & Cheese! I LOVE MAC & CHEESE!!!!! For such a large building, the statue is actually quite small in comparison. Seems like they should have built a smaller building, or a much much much bigger statue for the great man who brought us Mac & Cheese! Murrica! read more
It is only fitting that the Cherry Blossom trees gifted by Japan are planted around the Tidal Basin under the watchful eye of Thomas Jefferson from his dais inside his grand memorial. Coincidentally by nature, they are timed to bloom on his birthday and what a spectacle it is! Normally, the amount of visitors is not as much as the Lincoln Memorial or Washington Monument because it is a long walk from all the other sights around DC, but when those blossoms bloom, it's a PARTY down by the Tidal Basin! Thousands show up to celebrate Spring and the birth of our 3rd President! Nevermind that the man was also responsible for penning the Declaration of Independence AND the Constitution! read more
I made it finally. What a special spot in many ways. Don't miss checking the small museum and souvenir shops underneath! Price: Free. Parking: Hmmmm. You should park on streets or garages around Smithsonian and walk here. I walked from the top of Arlington cemetery . It took about 1 hour. I saved money and worked out well. Special: Many people take special shots here. Wedding, fashion, etc... On the stairs facing the Washington monument. read more
8 years ago
More info about Jefferson Memorial
Jefferson Memorial Reviews in Other Languages
Ask the Community - Jefferson Memorial
Review Highlights - Jefferson Memorial
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
41 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
10 years ago
11 years ago
10 years ago
7 years ago
8 years ago
10 years ago
10 years ago
11 years ago
8 years ago
10 years ago
10 years ago
11 years ago
9 years ago
13 years ago
10 years ago
9 years ago
9 years ago
16 years ago
Jefferson Memorial - landmarks - Updated July 2026
Best of Washington, DC
People found Jefferson Memorial by searching for…
Free Parking in Washington, DC
Open Late Museums in Washington, DC
24 Hour Library in Washington, DC
Scenic Night View in Washington, DC
Scenic Drive in Washington, DC
Sunrise View in Washington, DC
Scenic Overlook in Washington, DC
24 Hour Study Spots in Washington, DC
Abandoned Buildings in Washington, DC
Secluded Spots in Washington, DC
Places to Take Pictures at Night in Washington, DC
Public Shower in Washington, DC
Social Security Office in Washington, DC
Things to Do at Night in Washington, DC
Indoor Public Space in Washington, DC
Browse Nearby
BEST of Washington, DC, District of Columbia Restaurants near Jefferson Memorial
BEST of Washington, DC, District of Columbia Coffee near Jefferson Memorial
BEST of Washington, DC, District of Columbia Things to Do near Jefferson Memorial
BEST of Washington, DC, District of Columbia Breakfast near Jefferson Memorial
BEST of Washington, DC, District of Columbia Photo Spots near Jefferson Memorial
BEST of Washington, DC, District of Columbia Museums near Jefferson Memorial
BEST of Washington, DC, District of Columbia Hotels near Jefferson Memorial
BEST of Washington, DC, District of Columbia Sightseeing near Jefferson Memorial
BEST of Washington, DC, District of Columbia Airport near Jefferson Memorial
Browse Brands
Browse Articles
People who viewed Jefferson Memorial also viewed
Lincoln Memorial
1302 reviews
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
10 reviews
United States Capitol
340 reviews
Lafayette Square
16 reviews
Downtown
Air Force Memorial
78 reviews
56 Signers Of The Declaration Of Independence Memorial
20 reviews
The Lock Keeper's House
8 reviews
Abraham Lincoln Statue
3 reviews
District of Columbia War Memorial
37 reviews
Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial
19 reviews