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BLUF: The beloved Lincoln Memorial is even more of a show stopper with the addition of exhibits, a gift shop and restrooms in the undercroft. Of all the times I've stood at the base of the Lincoln Memorial, I've never once wondered what lay beneath it. Like everyone else, I was focused on climbing the iconic steps to see President Lincoln. But after more than a century, visitors can now explore what has been hidden below all along. Known as the undercroft, it's essentially the memorial's basement or a massive structural space built to support the monument above. Its 65-foot-tall concrete columns were engineered to keep the memorial standing firm on the soft, swampy ground near the Potomac River. Today, the undercroft features a film, exhibits, restrooms, and a gift shop, but the real showstopper is the opportunity to look through glass panels and see the monument's enormous structural supports up close. It's a fascinating reminder of the hidden infrastructure of DC. The exhibits were neat and included features on what it took to design and build the memorial as well as the various historic events that have taken place there. I also liked the exhibit that debunked myths about the statue of Lincoln. There are only a handful or so of exhibits but they are all well curated. There is also a brief film, currently more of a teaser for a film coming in 2027, about Lincoln and the monument. But still, it is the views into the undercroft that have me in awe. The Lincoln Memorial is probably one of the most visited sites in DC. For a little more peace, consider visiting in the evening or early morning. Popular activities here include sitting on the steps to enjoy the views of the reflecting pool and Washington monument as well as posing for photos with the Washington Monument in the background. There isn't an easy way to get to the Lincoln Memorial. Because parking is limited and the closest metro stop is probably a mile away, it's best reached via walking or as part of a tour that will drop you off at the site. Many people rent scooters and bikes but I am fuzzy on whether or not those are actually allowed on the sidewalks in this part of town and I don't think it's safe to ride in the street. Plus, if there are crowds, you won't be able to ride through them anyway. Definitely no riding anything on wheels within the monument sites.
The Lincoln Monument is a sight not to be missed in DC. There are no time limits, there are no gates obstructing the view. There are a lot of steps that you would need to climb if you planned on going to the top and getting as close to the memorial as you can. On my visit to the memorial, a little bird decided to perch itself on top of Lincoln's head, and it proceeded to sing there. It was kind of a sweet moment to witness. It would fly away, and then it would return and start singing again.Around the monument you'll find copies of speeches and signage reminding you that this is a place of reverence. I wish more people read the signs because it was a little loud in there. People have mentioned that you're able to see the reflecting pool from this and it's true.
What a beautiful beautiful place ! This was our last stop so we were exhausted from all the walking and initially didn't wanna walk the steps but thankfully we did. The view was beautiful ! They had bag pipes there with military personal and it was a beautiful moment. The music brought tears to my eyes, I'm not in the military but if I was I probably would have cried. The music was emotional and beautiful. Great stop and a must see!
Profound experience every time. Great to see young people visiting during spring break. Weather was beautiful. Situated one end of the national mall, the memorial is a reminder of the principles that guide our nation. I was able to visit during sunset, a beautiful time of day, and love the views, both of the memorial and the views from it.
Happy Juneteenth, 2026! Do you believe that all people should be treated equally? If half of the people who lived in our country believed your perspective was wrong, would you still stand up for what you believe? Would you be willing to put the entirety of your reputation or even your life on the line for something you strongly believe, like the right to freedom or equality? The belief that black people should have these rights too was strongly advocated by Abraham Lincoln, clearly showing his high ethical character. When I was a little boy, I read a small children's book about Abraham Lincoln. This book provided several interesting facts, like that Abraham Lincoln was born in a one-room log cabin in Kentucky (which was actually really small), and that he was self-educated. Information like this really inspired me as a young boy because it showed me that even a man that did not inherit wealth or a prestigious family status, like me, could become a great man if he was self motivated and had a respectable work ethic. This little book also explained how Abraham Lincoln was instrumental in freeing the slaves in America, something I could not really understand as a young boy. Although this country still has a lot to accomplish before attaining complete equality, we certainly would not have made the great strides that we have made without Abraham Lincoln's direction, and Juneteenth would not even exist. It amazes me to think how hard Abraham Lincoln had to work to lead this country toward racial equality. If you would like a great reference on this, please see the movie "Lincoln," made by Steven Spielberg in 2012. One thing that is surprising to me is how long it takes society to embrace a direction that the government leads, like equality. Consider this: Martin Luther King Jr. gave his "I Have A Dream" speech from these very steps, at the Lincoln Memorial, one hundred years after Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Martin Luther King Jr. was clearly addressing the social and legal biases that still existed against black people, over one hundred years later. One of the things I've learned about equality and discrimination is that someone does not truly appreciate equality until they have been treated unequally, and someone does not truly understand discrimination until they have been discriminated against. Most people would look at me, me being a white male, and ask me 'what could you possibly know about experiencing inequality and discrimination?' Unfortunately, a few different types of inequality and discrimination still exist in this country, one of which is focused on parental rights. And, most people would ask me this question because they are oblivious to the discrimination and inequality that most fathers experience after divorce. There is nothing worse than having your own children taken from you when you know that you are a loving parent who is also an intelligent, ethical, honorable, and admirable individual as a role model for your children. Sadly, the U.S. legal system and society as a whole still treat fathers as inferior to mothers, simply because of their gender. That is not only discrimination, but that is also a blatant inequality that STILL exists in this country. It is perplexing to me to think how much this country has strived for equality, and 250 years later, we still have a blatant inequality and discrimination against fathers at a governmental and societal level. (Reference: If you want more information and clarity, watch "The Red Pill," a 2016 documentary.) So, in addition to the ongoing racial inequalities, this is just ONE of the many other inequalities that unfortunately still persists in this country. In conclusion, I'm incredibly happy that the Lincoln Memorial was created, in 1922. I'm also happy that I was finally able to visit this memorial for the first time in my life this year, and show my respects for one of the greatest presidents this country has ever had. The Lincoln Memorial is a wonderful reminder of Abraham Lincoln's strive for racial equality, as well as a beautiful example of the way that the U.S. government and everyone in society should treat ALL PEOPLE -- equally.
This is perhaps the most iconic landmark in DC and one you must see. It's been shown in countless movies and is featured heavily in the Planet of the Apes movies as a sure fire way to know you are "not in Kansas anymore" if you get the drift... This monument is beautiful, well-kept, and crowded as hell. It's a long walk if you are coming from the main Washington Monument lawn, but is pretty and has plenty of sidewalk/walking trail with shaded tree-lined walks and plenty of benches to stop. It's at the top of a small hilll/stairs and requires a bit of a climb and the inside is covered with the main statue of Lincoln. There is a small museum at the bottom that was closed when we were there and the reflecting pond was emptied of water with gates/fences all around it.
The Lincoln Memorial honors Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, who was martyred for his contribution in leading the U.S. through the Civil War and eventual freeing of approximately 4 million enslaved Africans and their American descendants after the Emancipation Proclamation. The Lincoln Memorial, at the moment, is the furthest memorial west of The National Mall (with the Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial, currently under construction, being adjacent to and slightly further back along Constitution Avenue. The memorial is a little over 100 years old, but you couldn't tell considering its relatively pristine condition due to use of marble and granite in its construction. The stairs of the Lincoln Memorial is the platform of the iconic MLK "I Have A Dream" speech. Normally you can find visitors and tourists sitting on the stairs of the memorial. The Lincoln Memorial is a feature itinerary stop for tour groups, many of which normally a minimum of 25 people. The memorial is in the final stages of completing its $69 million project of a museum and exhibit underground, giving more of a story and construction history of the memorial. The best time to visit the memorial is at sunset and night when it is illuminated and the top of the stairs presents a photo op for the Reflecting Pool, Washington Monument, and U.S. Capitol in the backdrop.
The Lincoln Memorial has a scale that does not fully register until you are standing directly in front of it. Walking up the wide marble steps, I felt the structure massive but still strangely quiet, even with crowds constantly moving through the space. The open design gave me uninterrupted views back across the Reflecting Pool toward the Washington Monument, and that long visual axis made the entire area feel far bigger than it looks in photos. The atmosphere shifted depending on the time of day too. I visited around sunset and then again at night, and the monument took on a much calmer, more reflective feeling. Inside, the enormous seated statue of Abraham Lincoln became the center of everything. The chamber felt intentionally restrained, with the focus pulled toward the scale of the sculpture and the inscriptions carved into the walls around it. I stood there for a while just taking in the weight of the space. The experience around the memorial was surprisingly fluid for such a major landmark. There was enough open space that people naturally spread out, whether they were sitting on the steps, taking photos near the Reflecting Pool, or slowly reading the speeches engraved into the walls. Even with heavy tourist traffic, the space still managed to feel respectful rather than chaotic, partly because of how open and symmetrical everything is laid out.
The epicness of Lincoln National Memorial and how large the Lincoln statue is can only be fully experienced by being there (and also hearing the echo in the massive chambers where it sits). Lincoln was an attorney but a lesser known fact is that he is the only U.S. President to have a patent in his name as an inventor (Patent No. 6,469, issued on May 22, 1849, for a device designed to buoy vessels over shallow water sandbars. Inspired by his experience with riverboats running aground, his invention featured inflatable, adjustable air chambers attached to a ship's sides - Google AI).
If you can, head here at night. We've been several times but today visited at night and it was so moving. I felt like to monument was more breathtaking in the veils of night with the spectacularly placed lighting. The smaller crowd also allowed for more reflection. A great national monument of American history.
3 years ago
Such an amazing experience. The views are breathtaking, have you ever been curious what the back side of the building looks like.. I got you. I took a brief video of the back side of the memorial. Also it a great place to take selfies with not a whole lot of people in your pictures. read more
6 years ago
4 years ago
This was a breathtaking experience - both because of the beauty and because of the steps! It was well maintained and clean. The memorial is truly stunning, you feel very patriotic here. We were there at sunset which I think just added to the ambience. Definitely my favorite memorial. read more
Memorial to our 16th President! I never thought I'd see Lincoln's Memorial past the scene from the movie Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian when Larry and Amelia Earhart hide at the Lincoln Memorial from Kahmunrah's allies, Lincoln awakens and tells them that they make an adorable couple... but there we were standing below the pedestal as close as we could get to the rope around the memorial. It was such an impressive sight to see and to be there in person. It was actually a lot larger than I thought. The memorial was grand and beautiful with an inscription behind the Lincoln Statue. Two of his most famous speeches are inscribed on the north and south walls of the Lincoln memorial -- the Gettysburg Address [South Chamber] and the North Chamber is the Second Inaugural Address. The statue is impressive and stately and our visit was a remarkable experience for me. We took photos to our hearts content. The President is seated and overlooks the Reflection Pool and the distant Washington Monument. No visit to DC should overlook this memorial. It is a located on the National Mall, an easy walk from other nearby monuments and is completely free. No tickets required. We were happy to see this monument. Review #1201 read more
![Lincoln Memorial - 11.22.18 statue of Lincoln [60 feet wide, 74 feet deep, and 60 feet high] breathtakingly larger than life - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia](https://s3-media0.fl.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/b1pARsrgXG1MI0SkoWo63Q/348s.jpg "Lincoln Memorial - 11.22.18 statue of Lincoln [60 feet wide, 74 feet deep, and 60 feet high] breathtakingly larger than life - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia")
I suppose when you live a hop, skip, and a jump from all of the memorials in DC, you forget how they can be overlooked by someone who sees them on the regular. It only takes a child to see them for the first time to remember just how awesome it is to have this history so close. Like my opinion on most of the memorials, try to visit in both day and night as they both offer different experiences. I prefer night myself. While my toddler did not make it up the steps himself, once put in front of the giant statue of Lincoln his mouth was just opened with wide eyes for several seconds followed by a loud "dat?". While too young to understand at this point the significance of the memorial, I know we will revisit over the years and eventually he will be old enough to understand. Coming here with my son the other day just reminded me how much I love living near DC. read more
I was here in mid-July 2013 and I'm writing this review in January 2019...haha. I guess I did not use Yelp often in 2013. The Lincoln Memorial is a must-see sight for everyone who visits the National Mall in Washington D.C. I loved visiting the memorial even though I was somewhat rushed due to the tourist crowds. FACTS -- It was built to honour Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the U.S. It is a beautiful temple structure that has 36 pillars or columns. Each of those pillars represent the 36 states of the United States that existed when Lincoln died. Above the pillars, the names of the 36 states are written. I read that there is an elevator here in the lower lobby on the southeast corner of the building. I also didn't know that there is a bathroom downstairs too. WHAT TO DO -- Once you arrive, climb up the stairs or take the elevator to view the soaring statue of former President Lincoln who is sitting down in a big chair. Above Lincoln's head, etched into the wall, is a quote that reads: "IN THIS TEMPLE AS IN THE HEARTS OF THE PEOPLE FOR WHOM HE SAVED THE UNION THE MEMORY OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN IS ENSHRINED FOREVER." Be sure to take photos at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool that has the Washington Monument reflecting on the pool water. The pool is right in front of the Lincoln Memorial so you can't miss it. I arrived on a very hot Sunday late afternoon and tourists where already there. Thus, I felt a little bit rushed with trying to get a perfect photo that I missed the following fun things: FUN THINGS 1) I HAVE A DREAM -- the famous speech given by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was delivered right in front of the Lincoln Memorial. I was sadly oblivious of this fact because I had spent the whole day touring main attractions in DC plus it was really hot on the day I arrived at the Lincoln Memorial. Of course, I knew all about Dr. King beforehand but forgot about the fact that the March on Washington was right here. The words "I Have A Dream" is inscripted here on the ground and it was placed there in 2003. I'm not sure if this inscription is still there but I read that it is. Do not miss seeing this "I have a dream" inscription because when I visited, crowds were heavy and I totally missed standing on the exact spot where MLK gave his speech. Like me, do not be so focused on taking photos that you forget and miss the historical significance of the memorial. Nonetheless, the next time I visit the National Mall, I will soak it all in and take my time and hopefully the weather won't be so hot too. 2) EXHIBIT -- Upon writing this review, I learned that there is an exhibit (information section) below the Lincoln Memorial that has some history about Lincoln (timeline). Some Yelp reviewers called this a museum but it isn't a museum. I plan to visit and find this exhibit the next time I'm back in D.C. 3) GETTYSBURG ADDRESS - Because of the big crowds when I arrived, I didn't take time to notice that just to the left of Lincoln's statute, the Gettysburg address is written (etched) on the wall. I probably did see this but I can't remember now. Lincoln gave this Gettysburg speech in 1863 during the American Civil War. He delivered the speech from Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. CONCLUSION - I recommend coming to the Lincoln Memorial to view this amazing structure, learn about Lincoln, and take photos. Sit by the reflecting pool and enjoy the fresh breeze. Take a photo next to the "I HAVE A DREAM inscription. Admission is free and no tickets are required. It is opened 24 hours a day. TIPS: Arrive early to avoid tourist crowds. I heard that coming in the evening is fun because of all the night lights. - 17 total reviews in 2019. - 227 total Yelp reviews. - Reviewed on 23 January 2019. read more
Street metered parking is very close by but there will be a short walk to the monument, for obvious reasons here. Amazing to say the least. this is a place that you must come to see in order to understand the beauty and the history. Do not forget to look down at the "I had a dream " quote on the floor. Another interesting thing is that in one of the walls there is a typo so have some fun and go see I you can find it :D Beautiful and very meaningful experience. Around the area there is the garden with a nice water "pool" in the middle and to the sides of the grounds there are several memorials you should check out as well. The memorial is fee to visit. Definitely a must when in town. read more
If you're touring the National Mall for the first time, this is a must stop location. It's located on the west end of the National Mall right next to the Potomac River. This is an educational memorial to our 16th President. Be sure to take the time to read each wall to the left and right of Lincoln. This memorial also offers a great view on the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument. read more
3 years ago
Since we visited during the winter it was absolutely freezing so if you are planning to walk there from wherever your hotel is, PLEASE BUNDLE UP!!! It was a very awe-inspiring moment walking up a bunch of stairs to where the memorial was. You can see the shadow of the statue as you walked up. It was honestly kind of amazing knowing that the entire structure was built in marble so long ago. If you walk around for a bit you can find the Gettysburg Address to one side of the statue and another famous speech in the other (I unfortunately have no idea what it was, I'm not a history nerd!!) There were a few more tourists than I expected for the time of year but even then it was a relaxing experience that I recommend for any visit to Washington DC read more
The final stop on my DC trip was this iconic place at the end of the National Mall. I didn't go during the day, but at night time. I'm not sure if there's a "right time of the day" to go, like during daylight but it's just as great. It's a wonderful sight, looking at Lincoln sitting in a comfortable position looking over the Reflecting Pool - or straight at the Washington Monument. A lot of cool history lies here. Did you know that the idea of such monument devoted to Lincoln took decades to happen? Be sure to read the inscriptions on the walls, including the North Chamber (Second Inaugural Address) and the South (Gettysburg Address). It will be crowded no matter what, so you may have to wait your turn for pictures. The steps will also be filled with people sitting on them, but that's okay because I believe it adds character to the place. Some things to note: you can actually walk around the outside of the Memorial, but since it was dark at the time I was there, I decided not to. You can stand on the exact spot where MLK gave his "I have a dream" speech, as it is marked on the steps (unfortunately I didn't know that at the time!). There is also a small museum at the bottom, which is located on the left side - if you're standing in front of the monument. You can't miss it. And the bookstore, or souvenir shop, at the top is open late (I think until 10) so definitely get your collectibles there! Everyone, no matter who you are, should check out the Lincoln Memorial. It's free and no trip to DC would be complete without it. read more
8 years ago
5 years ago
We had to check this place out when we went to DC. It is indeed awe inspiring and just being in this place feels like being a part of history. There was a lot of people there even if it was so hot since it was in August when we visited here. Then it started to rain. But i still don't regret going here. Next time you come though, be prepared for the heat so bring water and for the rain so bring an umbrella. You can also buy some from the people selling in front. read more
5 years ago
Isn't much to say.. think if you're coming here you know what you're getting into. Cool either way just crowded read more
What's not to love about visiting the Lincoln Memorial. You can walk along on the sidewalk parallel to the Reflecting Pool as Lincoln sits at the far western end. I've been here numerous times during the daytime but this recent time in April, I came here before midnight since I was tied in all day in meetings and then we decided to walk here from the US Capitol. It's pretty amazing to see at night since the lights seem to glow in the darkness. I was surprised to see how many people were hanging around the stairs, sitting and enjoying the space and quiet. In fact, every time I visit this Memorial, I cannot help but fall deep in thoughts, perhaps the Reflecting Pool helps spread that feeling of what Lincoln was faced with during his presidency. Be sure to read the texts inscribed in the walls; his speech that he wrote for his famous Gettysburg Address is on one side and on the other side is his second inaugural address. And look upwards, very easy to forget to look all around since so many things to see these two paintings! I love visiting Lincoln because the decisions he had to face and make for the country, regardless of personal impact to his family show the great leader that he was. And when you turn around, you now see the Washington Monument!! It was real special at night. Do be aware if you are walking or riding your bike along the sidewalk, because at that time of night, all those rental scooters seem to be "hanging out" at wherever it was turned in? I wouldn't suggest walking alone here as it still is a city, but we didn't come across any trouble. I do not know if you drove down to DC, where to park closest to get here. I tend to use the Metro subway and walk, OR use Uber. read more
When we arrived we realized you have to walk to the memorial. You can park on the street for 2 hours but there's still some walking you have to do . We did not mind the walk as the park is beautiful to see. It was also a very nice sunny day. I went in the morning there was a little crowd so it's not as quiet as the evening. Everything is free and taking pictures is allowed . They also have a gift shop available not as big but great stuff inside. I would love to come back and see this at night the whole experience was breath taking. There are a lot of Museums in the area mostly with free entry! read more
6 years ago
Well worth the visit at night simply stunning and quiet solemnity. I'm here with my daughter to be in the center of our historical moment election 2020. Abe's figure never seemed so fatherly and necessary. Standing below and gazing up at his draped lanky oversized figure you want to cling to his pant leg, climb up and sit on his lap and try to voice all that my heart desires so much, like how about: the end of inequality, hatred, prejudice, violence and stop the rapid decline, oh and the ecological economic downward spiral. None of those human flaws are evident here in the pristine marble monument, the inscription of the Gettysburg Address and profound words oh and the imposing figure of our dear ole honest Abe. Except for the metal barricades at the foot of the steps it seems like all is well in the US. Sitting on the steps looking over the reflecting pool and obelisk is an awe inspiring moment. At night it is solemn, quiet, and a temple like reverence amongst those who visit pervades. A short walk to the Vietnam memorial and your evening Is complete, This is America. At its best with no clue as to the barricades and boarded up shops museums and eateries just a few blocks in. Grab a pin souvenir from the nice man in the cart at the path to the VM. Take a moment to appreciate our freedom Stay safe my friends, may all people be treated equally with kindness. read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
I was in awe! Beautiful monument! Made me respect Lincoln even more! The whole monument is breathtaking & reverent to a great man!! read more
"All men are created equal" are use in declarations of independence. Certainly Lincoln is an example for all people to be not just equal but also free. During his Gettysburg Address, his famous quote "that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth." This memorial is a symbol of freedom. Later MLK has the famous "I have a dream" speech here. It is definitely worth for many fight for freedom. This memorial situated at the west of National Mall. It overlooks the state capital which try to inspire our later generation in the capital in the house of senate to perform the right thing in the nation. With the big statues seat and overlooking, sometime I also like to have moment with him to ask what can we do for the nation. This memorial is sacred to many. It is one of the best monument in the mall. read more
I'm used to seeing Abe L. on the 5 dollar bill, but I got the chance to see him in all of his glory as he sits, overlooking the Reflection Pool and the Washington Monument. We walked from the National World War II Memorial and across the Reflection Pool to the Lincoln Memorial. Careful of your steps as you walked up the tiny stairs especially when it's raining. The Lincoln Memorial is a popular sight with many people crowding the area. It was a bit packed. The statue of Lincoln was beautifully sculptured. I was admiring the work because the details of the statue from his facial expression to his clothes were beautifully crafted by the artists. Above the statue, is a short but very touching memorial of Lincoln's greatest achievements in American history. I have to say I'm a bit jealous of Lincoln. He has the best view of the Washington monument, right at the center. Overall, do pay a visit to the Lincoln Memorial. read more
Beautiful, especially in night. View of Washington monument in reflective pool is awesome. This monument built on the bank of Potomac river to honor 16th president of USA Abraham Lincoln. It's in right across the Washington monument in the line of Capitol building. The exterior of the memorial looks like a Greek temple. 36 states name are graved on it which was total no of states at the time of the death of President. View of world war II memorial- Washington Monument and Capitol building in one line, is awesome. Specially reflection of the Washington monument in the pool is breathtaking. That's why this pool is known as a reflective pool. It's not deep, 18-30 inches is depth from sides to the middle. On the left side of Lincoln memorial has Vietnam memorial and another side has Korean war memorial. This is the place, where Martin Luther King Jr has given his famous speech " I have a dream". The spot is marked with the same. There is a huge amazing sculpture of our Lincoln in the middle. It was peak summer and it was very crowded. No places to sit on stairs too. Though I stayed there and waited for sunset to admire its beauty in the night. It looks really beautiful in the night. Simply Amazing. When I was here, there was a Lego exhibit. Lego forms of Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, Lincoln memorial was placed there. It is also printed on the back of $5 bill. It is open 24x7x365. The restroom is there but I did not find it clean. read more
6 years ago
I have always enjoyed this memorial. I think I have an affinity for this location ever since I saw Martin Luther kings "I have a dream speech!" This is one of the most famous spots of the civil rights movement. This monument is always inundated with people on any given day. That's why I took this time during the COVID -19 lockdown to go while the tourist were still in their own states. I enjoyed being at this site with only two other people. It's so peaceful and thought provoking. I will definitely be back this week to take advantage of this unprecedented time in history. read more
Quite possibly one of the most eerie and humbling part of the National Mall. The Lincoln Memorial stands mighty and magnificent in a Greek architecture domain. Located at the Western end of the National Mall, this monument towers and watches over the reflection pool and rest of the National Mall. Honoring our 16th President, millions and millions of people view this statue every year. A highlight of my DC trip. read more
Always a beautiful and inspiring place to go. Unfortunately, I can't take the number of steps. There may be a way to get up there by elevator but I haven't found it. The enormity of the statue is incredible and awe-inspiring and seeing the "Four-score" quote breath taking. One of my favorites. read more
This place is like Disney for me, magical. The more you learn about the history of former President Abraham Lincoln the more you learn how critical he became during those days. I also understand why some people would not like him. It was an economic war which he then helped the North win, but we couldn't just continue profiting from free labor, and I hope one day people could understand that. Once you go up the 58 steps (look up why it is 58 steps), you will find him majestic monument, full of details and energy. Take your time to read and digest both documents printed on both sides. I would go there to write and meditate and connect the similarities of those times with the times of now. He gave us enough to find better ways to unite this country and we can also use it now. Enjoy your visit. read more
Our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln (thank you for your service Mr. President) served from March 4, 1861 to April 15, 1865. President Lincoln was well known for his incredibly tall stature at 6 feet, 4 inches (wow, what a giant). But President Lincoln was also the one to emancipate slavery and gave the famous The Gettysburg Address, "four scores and seven years ago...". And then of course you know that he was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth on Good Friday, April 14, 1865. The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most famous statues in Washington DC, that's open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Restrooms are available at the base of the memorial (if facing the statue, it is on the left hand side). There is also a museum at the base of the memorial. Walk up the steps and make your way to the statue (please note that only service dogs are allowed at this memorial). Snap your photos (I am surprised that people are very nice in waiting their turn to take photos) and then look out towards the Washington Memorial and reflection pool. As other Yelp members had mentioned, this is where Martin Luther King made his "I have a dream" speech. If you are visiting DC, there is so much to do and see at the National Mall (more than 1 days worth). Be sure to make a trip out here to take in the history of what DC is. read more
3 years ago
Visited March 2018 Spring Break This memorial is one of many stops that you will see on the Trolley Tour. Since there were SO MANY people looking at the memorial, we decided to check out the little museum first. It was well done. Interesting pictures and plenty of facts to read. There's also a restroom in this area but it was DISGUSTING!! They REALLY should have scheduled times as to when this restroom needs to be cleaned. Walked up the stairs and WOW you see the Lincoln Memorial and you don't realize how huge this statue is till you are standing within its vicinity. It's AMAZING!! On one of the walls, you can read the Gettysburg address. There's also a teeny, tiny gift shop short walk from the memorial where you can buy a magnet or what not. read more
3 years ago
A beautiful memorial that is always maintained. The best time to see Abe is during the week I. The late afternoon or evening. It is a field trip magnet meaning that there are always many people and kids climbing all over the building making it sometimes difficult to visit. It isn't the parks department that makes it difficult, they are clearly overwhelmed by the masses and are always working diligently to keep it accessible and safe. If anything please thank them when you see them as they are doing a great job keeping everyone safe. Watch out in April and May for the bus loads of high school field trips. read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
8 years ago
Second time visiting this awesome attraction and I was still amazed. First time I came, it was the first chill of the season, so there was barely anyone around. It's was Just me and Abe, chilling. Came back this time during one of the hottest weekends of the summer (90+ degrees and humid), and guess what? Everyone and their mother's mother was there! Lol even a couple bootleggers were outside the memorial selling artwork and mixtapes (lord!). My boyfriend and I stopped by around 1pm, seems to be peak time as it was very crowded, and hot. Not so much that you couldn't see the statute though and there was plenty of space for photo-ops. There is also a small souvenir shop in the corner full of great trinkets and books devoted to the former president and important people during his run. The statute itself as well as the surrounding area are immaculate. As you walk from the WWII memorial, you are instantly greeted by the reflecting pool bustling with sweet ducks around the water. Wear comfortable shoes, the walk can be a feat for some. Once we reached the outside of the memorial, the stairs appear also appear immaculate and grand, we walked up the stairs only to be greeted by Abe himself. The statue is beautiful, pristine, and breath taking. You will surely be mesmerized by its construction. The walls opposite the statute feature excerpts from his speeches, definitely gives you something to walk away thinking about esp given the time he served our country. Overall, if you're in the area, definitely take the chance to see this beautiful attraction. If possible, take a tour (btw Free tours by foot is awesome!), it'll give u a good chance to learn a little more about it. We didn't see any info boxes or pamphlets around the site, you kind of have to figure it out or ask someone. But it was too hot for us to try and figure it out; My boyfriend was asking me what one of the speeches on the wall was related to, and I had no clue (yikes). read more
3 years ago
7 years ago
It had been years since I visited. My first time, I was in my twenties, and my daughter was four. I gave her a penny and tried to explain some of the rich history. She wasn't the only one who didn't truly grasp the true magnitude of this American temple... at the time. Not to worry though, I grew up and when I visited the second time, I was moved to tears. There are only a few places in the world that have that, and this is one of them. This is my favorite memorial, and favorite stop in The Mall. The actual statue of Lincoln is huge. It's literally one of those American icons that you have to see with your own eyes to have a true appreciation for it. The is a small gift shop to the left, it's somewhat hidden and easy to miss. If souvenirs are your thing, keep your eyes peeled for it. read more
To get the best experience, preserve solemnity by avoiding crowds. The world famous Lincoln Memorial! It's brilliantly situated west of the glorious Washington Monument and reflecting pool to make for a beautiful place to take in a sunset or any other moment in your days. Walk up the steps and see the impressive statue in it's glory. Notice his body language. It's apprehensive and troubled. Appropriate considering the country was about to fall apart during his Presidency. To his left and right are beautiful writings of his. Soak in the presence the statue holds. If you do happen to visit during crowds, understand people will be loud and mostly interested in taking selfies with the statue and not taking in the meaning and power of this monument. That may get irritating. The photo ops abound here as nearly every inch of this memorial is beautiful. Be sure to get a classic pic of the Washington Monument reflection in the pool at night as well as it from atop the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. ~Restrooms and museum are at the base of the steps. ~Capital BikeShare stations to left and right of the monument. I've written it in my other D.C. reviews: Ride bikes along the National Mall!! It is so worth it. ~Cafe with food and water to the right if you're facing the monument. read more
3 years ago
Amazing! Viewing at nice was beautiful as you could see other lit monuments in the distance. The side walls were hard to read at night, though. Impactful and somber and I have a dream steps were marked there. read more
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Lincoln Memorial - landmarks - Updated August 2026
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