Reflect on Lincoln's Legacy

The Lincoln Memorial is an essential place to stop during your visit to the nation's capital. In addition to commemorating the life and legacy of one of our nation's most influential presidents, the Lincoln Memorial has served as a stage for many significant moments in our history. 

Since its dedication in 1922, the Lincoln Memorial has welcomed millions of visitors to reflect and honor one of our nation's greatest presidents.

Details

Duration

5-30 Minutes

The memorial is an open-ended experience, and guests may stay as long as they like.

Activity

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

Climb the steps to the chamber. Here, you'll find two huge murals by Jules Guerin, inscriptions of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Address, and the iconic statue of Abraham Lincoln by sculptor Daniel Chester French. Be sure to walk around the back side of the memorial for a view of the Arlington Memorial Bridge and the Potomac River. On the lower level, explore a museum area.

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Pets are not allowed inside the chamber, and must remain below the white marble steps.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Lincoln Memorial

Nearby major intersections includ 23rd Street & Constitution Ave. NW and 23rd Street & Independence Ave. SW

Via Metro: From Foggy Bottom Metro, head south along 23rd Street until you reach the memorial. From Smithsonian Metro, proceed west past the Washington Monument and the Reflecting Pool.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Any Time

Nighttime is an especially interesting time to visit as the lighting highlights the memorial's features. Visit around dawn to see the chamber with the most direct sunlight. The memorial tends to be most crowded at midday.

Accessibility Information

Elevator access to the chamber level: enter the museum area on the ground floor. The elevator is in the rear of the museum.

The Lincoln Memorial is an instantly-recognizable icon.

NPS / USPP

Explore

• 

  Secret Symbol of the Lincoln Memorial

  Many visitors miss the true meaning of the memorial and the ubiquitous symbol that carries that meaning.

• 

  Civil Rights at the Lincoln Memorial

  As a symbol of democratic principles and beliefs, it is fitting that the memorial has been the site of these civil rights demonstrations.

• 

  Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

  The memorial commemorates the life of a man who fought for justice in the face of injustice and equality in the face of inequality.

Did you Know

In 1939, Marian Anderson sang at the memorial to an audience of 75,000 after being barred from singing at Constitution Hall because of her race. This event began the memorial’s connection to the continuing struggle for equality.