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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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
We visited the Lincoln Memorial on a Saturday afternoon in November and were surprised to see nearby construction for an addition. Posted signs announced an opening date slated for 2026. Crowds were moderate during our visit, but patience will come in handy to allow for everyone to have their photo opportunities. Statue appears to need a good cleaning refresh.
Had to commute here by bus because would have been a nightmare to park here. Very touristy, yes, but understandably so because rich in history! So much to learn from this location and lots to appreciate with how far the national has come since its roots. All so beautiful with the illumination from the sunny skies. Lots of security and military on standby, but cute to see them also walking around to appreciate the beauty around them. I will say that it is very windy here, so difficult to consistently nice photos, but thank gosh for the many people who are willing to help you out to get a nice photo op moment.
Standing before the Lincoln Memorial, you realize something right away: pictures don't tell the story at all. From far away it almost looks modest, but when you walk up those steps the place rises with a quiet power that makes the world slow down. And there sits Abraham Lincoln calm, steady, larger than life like he's still watching over the country he fought to hold together. It's not about marble or size, it's about presence; the kind that makes you pause, take a breath, and feel small in the best possible way.
This is one of the monuments/memorials that just sticks out. You can get a good workout walking up the stairs to see him, or take the ramp, but his memorial is a must-see. Its somewhat walled, so on a windy day like when I was there, it offers a little bit of shelter. It also makes it darker so the view isn't as good. Also one of the most trafficked memorials so don't expect an up-close view unless you want to wait a little.
A very special place. I am honored to visit this wonderful monument that means so much. Take time to read the Gettysburg address, nice and slow . Afterwards, let your eyes gaze at the bigger than life statue of a man whose impact was tremendous and so kind. Made it inspire others to continue this legacy always. read more
10 months ago
We went to the Lincoln Memorial early on a Saturday (around 7am) and it was the best decision -- no crowds, no traffic, just a peaceful, stunning view. Standing there in the quiet morning light made the whole experience even more powerful. read more
I absolutely love to come here. It's always nice seeing DC monuments and take it all in. I love the fact that you get to strolls through the city and explore for free. I wish all other major cities do this for their own people. read more
Mhew! I took a photo here and left pretty much immediately. It's a small area where the statue sits and the crowds all sit on the steps leading up to it with no care that they are blocking access. A quick "EXCUSE YOU" cause I'm not in the way, prompted the obnoxious crowd to move the freak out the way so others can enjoy the site too. It is very handicap accessible which I thought was really cool. There is a big ass sign that says please be silent but nobody was silent. read more
A must see whether you're in the daytime or at night. I honestly loved it at night, but I will say, looking out at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool during the day was unreal. Both times of day are incredible. Be prepared to be slightly winded as you climb up the steps - although there's a ramp (that I believe is only temporarily there) but it's great for accessibility purposes and also a lot of people use it to get up and down. read more
1 year ago
So glad I got to see this. This was absolutely stunning. It's huge and amazing to see in person . Not something you should skip. It was so nice I didn't want to leave. Easy walk up and they have a ramp for people in wheelchairs chairs . I would come again and again. It's huge !!!!! It's amazing !!! Come see it read more
So the hours on Yelp! show this place closes at 11 PM. I know rangers are around until 10 PM on some occasions, but I went at 11:30 and stayed til after midnight, and there were still plenty of people there. In fact, I came late on purpose so I could really appreciate the memorial and get some good photos . . . and was surprised at how many people were still around. Online it says the place is open 24/7 . . . though I can't swear to that. There are captiol/park police around and the area is well-lit, so I didn't feel unsafe all. It also sits across from an impressive view of the national mall, the US capitol, and the Washington monument. It is an imposing, impressive monument. I've always been an amateur historian where Lincoln is concerned . . . I went to Lincoln's cottage while in DC, I've been to his Springfield home, I've been to his tomb, I've been to his childhood home in Hodgenville, KY . . . and on and on. This somber monument was a great place to reflect and tie all of my thoughts on his legacy together. Again, I recommend going either super early in the morning or late, late in the evening, near midnight or after. I got some great pics, but be aware that it's undergoing some renovations for the 250th Independence Day celebration and the elevator is out, so there is a huge, janky ramp leading all the way up on the left side of the memorial. Still majestic and beautiful. read more
2 years ago
As one of the most iconic landmarks in Washington DC, one's visit is not complete without seeing the Lincoln Memorial. Within the Greek temple structure, Lincoln sits prominently, overlooking the amazing view of the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument. If you're facing him, to the right is his second inaugural address and on the left is his famous Gettysburg Address. I wish I had paid more attention to the pillars; I have since learned there are 36 of them, representing the states of the Union at the time of Lincoln's death. When we arrived mid-morning, the monument was pretty busy. In fact, compared to all other memorials we visited that day, this one was the most lively, with people posing for photos in front of Lincoln and also capturing the view of the Reflecting Pool from outside. It almost feels surreal realizing that you're standing in the same place where MLK gave his "I Have a Dream" speech and where many other Civil Rights events occurred decades ago. Needless to say, the tremendous historical significance and inspiration associated with this memorial are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who ascends up its steps. "IN THIS TEMPLE AS IN THE HEARTS OF THE PEOPLE FOR WHOM HE SAVED THE UNION THE MEMORY OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN IS ENSHRINED FOREVER" read more
The Lincoln Memorial is currently undergoing renovations which could be finished in time for the 250th Independence Day celebration. This was one of the busier memorials during my visit to DC even with the reconstruction blocking parts of the memorial. A temporary ramp was constructed on the left side of the memorial and most of the right side was closed off behind barriers. Inside two walls were inscribed with Lincoln's speeches from Gettysburg and his second inauguration. The statue of Lincoln towered above and was popular with group and selfie photos. Another popular photo location was on the top stairs looking towards the Washington Monument and the Reflecting Pool. Looking forward to returning after all the renovations are finally completed. read more
The Lincoln Memorial looks like a classic marble Greek temple. The monument is 189.7 x 118.5 ft and is 99 ft tall. It is surrounded by a peristyle of 36 fluted Doric columns, representing the 36 states in the Union when Lincoln died, and 2 columns in-antis at the entrance behind the colonnade. Above the colonnade, inscribed on the frieze, are the names of the 36 states in the Union at the time of Lincoln's death & the dates in which they entered the Union. Daniel Chester French, the scuptor supervised 6 brothers in its 4 yrs construction. The 175 ton statue, carved from Georgia white marble, was shipped in 28 pieces. Pointed out to me was that French possibly used sign language. Lincoln's left hand forms an "A" while the right hand portrays an "L". Next to Lincoln are carved inscriptions from his 2nd inaugural address and Gettysburg Address. Symbolic elements are incorperated in this memorial. The mural by Guerin presents Lincoln's life's principles: Freedom, Liberty, Morality, Justice, & the Law on the south wall; Unity, Fraternity, & Charity on the north. The cypress trees in the background represent eternity. The bronze girders on the ceiling are ornamented with laurel and oak leaves. There is a lot of construction at the memorial because they are building an educational center in the basement. It's noisy, dusty and more cramped than usual. read more
Did this tour just with a friend in the dark and still got goosebumps! Probably not best to do in the winter but there was actually more lighting here than I thought. Majestic figures, a piece of history and infinite wisdom from our political giants in the past. If you're used to seeing this in the day, come for a different view at night. There are still people here past 8pm (we were out pretty late!) but definitely less crowded than during the day. Take your time and soak it all in. read more
It's hard not to give the actual Lincoln Memorial an automatic perfect rating - it's gorgeous, iconic, in a perfect spot right in front of the Reflecting Pool with a great shot of the Washington Monument to the east. Literally it's an enduring symbol featured prominently on our currency and in tons of pop culture. I'm not an architecture expert, but it hits. I do think though that you have to grade the overall visit, which brings the weather, time of day, tourist environment, etc. into play, and that's going to understandably vary a little each time. My top tier chum who literally went to the school of hospitality and I walked over here last Saturday during inauguration weekend after having a nip at the Watergate (living the dream). One note worth mentioning if you're not a native to this area - be careful making judgment calls about walking distance, especially in the monument area of the city. Everything takes at least twice as long and you bizarrely find out that you're spoiled by NYC city blocks, which is...an odd feeling. A few obvious pedestrian walkways were closed presumably for the weekend festivities so we took detours that probably added 15 or 20 minutes to our walk (not the best during a very nippy time of year). The upside was that that delay brought us to the Memorial closer to sunset, which something tells me (along with the sunrise) is the best time to go. I'm sure there are a gazillion books about how they chose locations and where/how to build some of these buildings and monuments back in the day when this was literally - not metaphorically - a swamp, but I can't imagine they didn't pay attention to optics and basic geometry with this stuff. Very cool visuals. I've been here probably two or three times before over the years going back to young puphood but for me this time, the interior of the monument hit more than the outside. The statute of Lincoln just seems gigantic in there, and the acoustics that come with being in a marble room like this really give this atmosphere even more gravitas. Honestly I choked up a little re-reading the Gettysburg Address on the left side of the wall; definitely the history nerd in me, but if you chisel iconic words into something, I'm probably going to lose it, just FYI. Given when we were here, it's not surprising that there were throngs of people everywhere. I will say this - no matter your political affiliation, there IS a cool electricity in the air for something like this, which was certainly evident during our visit. There was predictably an overwhelming sea of red (highlighted by someone behind me claiming the wet stairs were "liberal tears," though from my on-the-ground recon they seemed to be the result of melted snow), and a few token protestors, but nothing over the top. For my taste, there were too many people and I'd prefer to come back when it's significantly quieter. I could be mistaken but I think there were a few signs indicating that you were supposed to be silent within the interior of the monument as a sign of respect, but that was definitely not adhered to. There was a lot to do on this particular weekend, but it WAS nice to take a minute to reflect and remember why this city is as significant as it is in the grand scheme of things. read more
Every time I come to Washington DC, I make a point of visiting the Lincoln Memorial. Dedicated to the president who saved the Union, and freed 4 million of enslaved people. Besides the prominent statue of the 16th president seated, walls are decorated with words from the famous Gettysburg address. The Lincoln Memorial was also used at various times for civil rights gatherings including the location of famous " I have a dream" speech. read more
3 years ago
We woke up early on Christmas Day to see the Lincoln Memorial. We just moved to the DC area and thought it would be the perfect day to go, since most places were closed. It was still semi dark with little light. No traffic. Free Parking. Parking was easy and a small walk away. Very few people around the grounds. The maintenance of the area was very satisfactory. Pleasant walk to the Lincoln Memorial despite all the construction. We were relieved that we could still go and view the Lincoln Memorial. The views of the national monuments are breathtaking and peaceful. I could have spent a longer time enjoying the views from the Lincoln Memorial. read more
A must stop on anyone's D.C. trip. You see this Memorial in textbooks and in movies, but it's so much more magnificent and impactful to see it in person. Part of the National Mall, easy to include in your itinerary and an easy walk from the Washington Memorial. We came here at night, and while I don't have the daytime comparison, seeing it at night was incredible with the way the lights shined on the monument. Standing at the top of the stairs at the monument and looking out across the reflecting pool and toward the Washington Memorial is both beautiful and peaceful. An important stop and easy to incorporate on your trip to the National Mall. read more
1 year ago
Long way from the White House! Be prepared. It's a long way but we'll worth it. We caught the motor bikes to and from! read more
3 years ago
E Pluribus Unum. The Lincoln Memorial stands as a beacon of liberty and symbolizes strength through unity. (In fact, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have A Dream Speech" here!) At the heart of the Greek temple sits an imposing sculpture of Abraham Lincoln. His stoic gaze overlooks a gleaming reflecting pool. Inscriptions of his Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Address adorn the surrounding walls. The temple's marble and stone composition provides a cool, shady area for contemplation and reverence. For a more peaceful experience, I highly recommend visiting in the late evening when there are little to no crowds. The Lincoln Memorial looks even more spectacular by the glow it radiates at night. Note: Restrooms and a gift store are available at ground level to the side of the temple. read more
2 years ago
This is a beautiful Memorial. It can be busy. I recommend early morning. Anytime works to visit, but the morning gives you a bit more peace. Sitting on the steps looking at the reflecting pool with the Washington monument in the background is stunning. My daughter was surprised how big Lincoln is. read more
3 years ago
Tony and I were in Washington DC to celebrate his 61st birthday. He said he that he was unable to go on his 6th grade patrol trip, and he always wanted to see the monuments. We walked over 12 miles this Saturday, so he could see the memorials and we still didn't see them all. We walked down the Mall Greenway from the capital to the Lincoln Memorial, now that's a haul !!! They were refurbishing a lot of the monuments and buildings but they were still beautiful and free to enjoy. All of the public areas were full of tourist and foreign languages being spoken at every turn. I found it exciting, adventurous and even exhilarating!! NOT my Tony, he found it overwhelming, crowded and made him very frustrated. It is so strange how two people experiencing the same day, can be so different in views! Lol! He never wants to go back, and yet I can't wait. The entire day overwhelmed him. But, he did admit the Lincoln Memorial was beautiful just too crowded!! I told him maybe we could try at night, he just stared at me read more
1 year ago
This is an American icon and one that is surreal to see up close. It's a must see when in the DC area. It's right in the middle of the National Mall area. Plenty of areas to walk around by the monument. It's a fitting memorial for one of the all time great US presidents. read more
2 years ago
The meaning of the memorial means a lot to me, but the 4 stars is due to how dirty the statue was. I know they can do better. read more
4 months ago
4 months ago
Update: they do have some construction going on but still open to the public. There is a ramp if you have a wheelchair or stroller. Be sure to check out the right and left side of the Lincoln statue. You'll find wording on the walls. read more
We were on vacation and decided to come here. There's street parking. There's a lot of walking so make sure you have walking shoes. This is completely free do it doesn't get better then that. The pictures come out amazing. There is a ramp for wheel chairs on the side. The statue is way better in person the pictures don't do it justice. If you're in DC this is a must stop. read more
What can be said about one of the most recognized landmarks in DC or really anywhere in this county!? It was very impressive to see him up close and personal. The steps up took a minute but if you're able to - it's so worth it! I believe there is also an elevator but I'm not sure how that works. We got the chance to see him during the day and at night. Impressive sight both times but there is something about a nighttime visit, when the world is quiet and resting that made it a little more special. read more
Everytime I'm in Washington DC I love to make the trek out to the Lincoln memorial! The view of the memorial itself is astonishing and the view from the top step towards the courtyard is also one of my favorites! This past Easter weekend the weather was perfect and made the walk all worth while. Definitely a must if you're in the area! read more
This is an amazing monument to an amazing leader and it never fails to awe me and inspire in it's presence. The monument is beautiful and simple the craftmanship of the statue and the entire facade as well. A great deal of history happened here and it's incredible to experience it time after time. It is heavily under construction at the moment as they look to upgrade the visitor center, ADA access and restore the marble steps and decorations. It's still an amazing piece of history and a must visit attraction. read more
It's really difficult to not give five stars to such an important piece of history. I felt so honored to be able to visit this place and to explore it. Every detail of this monument has been done to perfection and with extreme care, the amount of work is very well appreciated; definitely one of a kind places in Washington DC to visit. Visually speaking, the ramps could have been made in a way that compliments the artistry behind the monument. Besides that a must see stop if visiting Washington DC. read more
I visited here while on a summer trip a while back. Though it was quite humid and the walk to the memorial had me very damp, I must say it was completely worth it. The memorial is massive and it was truly impressive to see such an iconic statue with my own eyes. The view from the top of the steps is incredible and the only thing that would have made it better was if the sun was out. This place has something that almost anyone can appreciate. I feel lucky to have gotten this experience. read more
2 years ago
While there is currently construction going on around the memorial (Lincoln museum is coming in 2026!) it still holds all the majesty it ever did. I am semi obsessed with Abraham Lincoln, and have read more biographies on him than I can count. So when I was in the DC area, I had to come pay my respects. It was a busy evening with a lot of school groups and tourists, I was very disappointed that they were not honoring the signs asking for respect and quiet. It was quite loud in there and people were trying to clap and be loud so they could hear the echo. But it still didn't take away from the beautiful quotes on the wall and the statue of our greatest president. It is a hike to get up to the top, so give yourself time if you have mobility issues, but there is a ramp available if you don't want to take the steep stairs read more
Such wonderful views, best in the NCR! 100 percent free to go in and see Lincoln. Great place to start your DC tour. Well worth the trip no matter how much time you have in DC. Tip: if you are using Uber be specific in your pick up location it is pretty busy down there. read more
Climbed the steps up to see this beautiful sight. A must for those visiting DC. Took the time to read everything and just appreciate. Right before I walked backed down, I took a moment as the views were just breathtaking. read more
Lincoln Memorial is easily accessible via car or an easy breezy walk through the park. A part of the Lincoln Memorial is currently undergoing construction but the majestic view of the statue is still impressive. Construction will be completed in 2026, and there will be more interesting exhibits added to the Lincoln Memorial. There is so much to learn from the current Memorial already, and I can't wait for the new construction to be done. read more
1 year ago
Love how close the monuments are to each other to walk from one to another. We walked from the Washington monument, along the reflection pool and to the Lincoln Memorial. So amazing to see this in person and know how much history has occurred in this place. It gave me chills. There are a lot of stairs to climb, and I believe there is an ADA ramp available for those who cannot go up the stairs. Definitely worth the visit! read more
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Lincoln Memorial - landmarks - Updated July 2026
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