The Washington Monument is among many historically significant places in the capital.
Washington, D.C., is an ideal destination for people interested in the history of the United States. The city has one of the nation's best collections of monuments and museums, all within a short distance from one another. Exploring the nation's capital should include stops at these and other highly recognizable sites around the District.
Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial is a monument dedicated in 1922 to Abraham Lincoln, the American president who led the country through its bloody Civil War and was in large part responsible for beginning the move toward equality for all people in America.
The memorial is modeled after a Grecian temple and contains one of the most majestic sights in all of Washington. The statue of Lincoln is an intricately designed sculpture made from Georgia marble that features a 19-foot carving of the man seated in a chair within a massive structure, which includes 36 marble columns. Each column represents the 25 U.S. states that existed at the time of Lincoln's death as well as the 11 Southern states that seceded and then rejoined the union.
The Lincoln Memorial was the site of the 1963 "I Have A Dream" speech by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. There is no admission price for visiting the memorial.
Lincoln Memorial
900 Ohio Dr. SW
Washington, DC 20024
202-426-6895
nps.gov
Washington Monument
Towering above everything else in the vicinity, the 555-foot Washington Monument is the tallest stone structure in the world. From the top, windows look out over the city offering an amazing view. Look right into the back yard of the White House, see the twists and turns of the Potomac River, see the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, Capitol Hill, the National Mall, the Smithsonian and much more.
This monument, which was finished in 1884, stands as a tribute to George Washington, who helped lead the country to independence and was elected the first president of the United States. On a clear day, the view from the top of this structure lets viewers see for 30 miles in every direction. Admission is free.
Washington Monument
Constitution Avenue and 15th Street NW
Washington, DC 20037
202-426-6841
nps.gov
Holocaust Memorial Museum
The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is located along the National Mall, among the many other monuments and tributes to freedom. The purpose of the museum is to educate people about the dangers of hatred and the importance of preserving democracy.
Admission to the museum is free and includes access to four floors of history related to the Holocaust, including the Hall of Remembrance, where epitaphs honor the victims of the Holocaust and people are encouraged to spend time in reflection and light candles as a sign of remembrance.
Holocaust Memorial Museum
100 Raoul Wallenberg Place SW
Washington, DC 20024
202-488-0400
ushmm.org
