Plan Your Visit

New screening facility at the Washington Monument

The Washington Monument stands at the center of the National Mall as a tribute to George Washington, commander of the Continental Army and the first President of the United States. Rising more than 555 feet above Washington, DC, the monument offers panoramic views of the nation’s capital and remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in the country.

Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to experience the views again, planning ahead can help make your visit smooth and enjoyable.

Location

The Washington Monument is located on the National Mall in Washington, DC.

Address: 2 15th Street NW Washington, DC 20024

The monument grounds are open daily. Timed-entry tickets are required to ride the elevator to the observation level.

Hours of Operation

The Washington Monument is generally open daily, except for December 25 and during occasional maintenance or weather-related closures.

Operating hours and elevator ticket availability may vary seasonally. Check the official National Park Service website for current information before your visit.

Timed Entry Tickets

Visitors must have a timed-entry ticket to enter the monument.

Advance tickets are available online through Recreation.gov and are typically released 30 days in advance of the visit date. Additional, same-day tickets are distributed on site starting at 8:45 every morning.

Visitors should arrive at the screening area at least 15 minutes before their scheduled entry time.

Security Screening

All visitors must pass through security screening before entering the monument.

To help speed entry:

• Travel light and avoid bringing large bags.
• Leave prohibited items at home.
• Follow instructions from park staff and security personnel.

Food, beverages, and large backpacks are not permitted inside the monument.

Accessibility

The Washington Monument is accessible to visitors with disabilities.

• Elevators provide access to the observation level.
• Accessible restrooms are available nearby.
• Service animals are permitted.
• Accessible parking is limited in the surrounding area.

Visitors requiring additional accommodations are encouraged to contact the National Park Service in advance.

Getting Here

Metrorail

The easiest way to visit the Washington Monument is by public transportation.

Nearby Metro stations include:

• Smithsonian (Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines)
• Federal Triangle (Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines)
• L’Enfant Plaza (Blue, Orange, Silver, Green, and Yellow Lines)

Parking

Parking near the National Mall is limited and often fills quickly, especially during spring and summer.

Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation, rideshare services, biking, or walking whenever possible.

Biking and Walking

Bike racks are available near the monument grounds. The National Mall is also connected to regional trails and sidewalks that make walking between memorials and museums easy.

What to Expect During Your Visit

A typical visit to the Washington Monument lasts about 45 minutes to one hour.

After passing through security, visitors ride an elevator to the observation level, where windows on all sides provide views of:

• The U.S. Capitol
• The White House
• The Lincoln Memorial
• The Jefferson Memorial
• Arlington National Cemetery
• The Potomac River

Interpretive displays inside the monument share the history of its construction, preservation, and significance.

Weather and Seasonal Tips

The monument grounds are exposed to the elements, so dress appropriately for the weather.

• Summer temperatures can be very hot and humid.
• Winter conditions can be windy and cold.
• Thunderstorms or high winds may temporarily close the monument.

Spring and fall are especially popular times to visit due to milder weather and seasonal scenery.

Nearby Attractions

The Washington Monument is centrally located near many of Washington, DC’s most visited sites, including:

• The World War II Memorial
• The Lincoln Memorial
• The Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• The National Museum of African American History and Culture
• The Smithsonian museums
• The White House

Visitor Tips

• Reserve tickets in advance whenever possible.
• Arrive early to allow time for security screening.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring water, especially during warmer months.
• Plan extra travel time during holidays and major events on the National Mall.

Stay Connected

For current operating hours, alerts, ticket information, and updates, visit the National Park Service website and follow National Mall and Memorial Parks on social media.