10 Must-See Monuments & Memorials on the National Mall in DC

If you’re looking for some of the most iconic historical monuments and memorials to explore not only in Washington, DC but also across the country, then the National Mall is the place to be. There’s no wonder that “America’s Front Yard” attracts millions of visitors annually. After all, it features tributes to key figures and pivotal events in US history. The two-mile-spanning National Mall houses landmarks honoring presidents, soldiers, and civil rights leaders, which provides visitors with a deep connection to the past of America. So, if you’re looking to reflect on the sacrifices of those who served in war or celebrate the ideals of liberty and equality, consider checking out these ten must-see monuments and memorials on the National Mall in DC.

At the western end of the National Mall in DC, you’ll be able to witness the revered tribute to President Abraham Lincoln. After years of planning and construction, the statue was dedicated in 1922 to honor the legacy of Lincoln in preserving the Union during the Civil War. Henry Bacon designed this iconic monument in a neoclassical style. He made it resemble a Greek temple with its 36 columns. Each of these represents the states in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s assassination.

The massive 19-foot statue of Lincoln gazes out over the Reflecting Pool, with the Washington Monument in the distance. Over the years, the memorial witnessed lots of pivotal moments in US history, such as Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech. This was delivered to more than 250,000 people from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.

It’s worth noting that the statue was sculpted by Daniel Chester French. The Lincoln Memorial is open 24/7, and it’s a place for reflection and remembrance, so it’s a good idea to visit during early morning or evening hours.

2. Washington Monument

Construction started in 1848. After several delays caused by funding issues and the Civil War, the Washington Monument was completed in 1884. Because of the delays and political disputes, there was a long pause in construction from 1854 to 1877.

When visiting this impressive obelisk, make sure to take an elevator ride to the observation deck. The latter offers charming 360-degree views of the city. You’ll be able to see the White House and the US Capitol from up there.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Washington Monument is the visible change in the color of its marble due to construction being halted for over two decades. For instance, the darker stones at the base were sourced before construction ended. As for the lighter stones, they came from a different quarry after the project resumed following the war.

During the Vietnam War, 58,000 American service members died or went missing. This memorial honors them. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial was designed by Maya Lin and completed in 1982. The names of the fallen are engraved on the black granite wall, arranged in chronological order of their deaths. As for the V-shaped design of the stunning memorial, it points toward both the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial and evokes a deep emotional response as visitors see their reflections alongside the engraved names.

Three key elements make up the Vietnam Veterans Memorial: the iconic Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, the Three Servicemen statue, and the Vietnam Women’s Memorial. The latter honors primarily nurses who served during the war. Today, visitors often leave behind mementos, such as tokens, letters, and photographs, as a way to pay tribute to loved ones lost in the conflict. This makes the Vietnam Veterans Memorial one of the most poignant destinations on the National Mall.

4. World War II Memorial

This one is located between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument on the National Mall in Washington, DC. The National World War II Memorial honors the 16 million Americans who served during World War II, including the 405,399 who gave their lives. Dedicated in 2004, it features 56 granite pillars that represent the US states and territories at the time of war and two triumphal arches that symbolize the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of the conflict.

The millions of visitors who flock to the World War II Memorial annually enjoy witnessing the serene pool with fountains at the heart of the memorial, which is surrounded by bronze sculptures and bas-relief panels. These depict key moments from the war, both on the home front and on the battlefield.

They’re also drawn to the “Freedom Wall.” This one displays 4,048 gold stars, and each of them represents 100 Americans who died in the war.

The memorial also plays a major role in the Honor Flight Program. This one brings veterans from across the country, including those who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, to visit the monuments dedicated to their service.

Opened in 2011, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial stands along the Tidal Basin, between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. It’s located in West Potomac Park and honors the legacy of Dr. King’s fight for equality, justice, and freedom.

The centerpiece is a 30-foot granite statue of Dr. King, known as the “Stone of Hope,” emerging from a symbolic “Mountain of Despair.” This design draws inspiration from his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, emphasizing perseverance in the face of adversity. To be more precise, a key line from the speech, “Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope,” is embodied in the structure of the monument. And the statue of Martin Luther King Jr. emerges from two large granite slabs. These symbolize the “Mountain of Despair.”

There are several engraved quotes from Dr. King’s speeches surrounding the monument. They reflect his vision for justice and nonviolent social change. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial spans four acres and connects visitors to one of America’s greatest civil rights leaders.

6. Korean War Veterans Memorial

This memorial opened in 1995, commemorates the service and sacrifice of 5.8 million Americans who fought in the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. The centerpiece of the Korean War Veterans Memorial is a striking arrangement of 19 life-sized stainless steel statues. Each of them represents a soldier from the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. The statues are arranged as though in patrol through a rugged Korean landscape. A reflective wall etched with images of service members mirrors the soldiers. It creates an impression of 38 figures, a nod to both the 38th parallel and the 38 months of the war.

One of the most powerful elements of the Korean War Veterans Memorial is the “Wall of Remembrance.” It was added in 2022 and bears the names of over 36,000 American and 7,100 South Korean soldiers who died under US command during the war. Visitors are also drawn to the poignant message engraved in silver letters: “Freedom is not free,” a reminder of the cost of the conflict.

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is a favorite among visitors to the National Mall in Washington, DC. It hosts various annual events, such as Easter sunrise services and ceremonies for the National Cherry Blossom Festival. As for the design of the memorial, it draws inspiration from the Roman Pantheon, featuring majestic marble steps and Ionic columns. You can find, inside of the memorial, a towering bronze statue of Thomas Jefferson standing at the center. It’s surrounded by inscriptions from his key writings, with some portions of the Declaration of Independence.

Located on the south side of Tidal Basin, the neoclassical monument was completed in 1943 and designed by John Russell Pope. The serene setting of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial offers mesmerizing views of the Tidal Basin and the cherry trees all around. This is particularly true during the annual cherry blossom season.

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to reflect on the third US president’s role in shaping the nation, then the Thomas Jefferson Memorial is the place to be.

8. Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

This one is arranged into four distinct “outdoor” rooms, and each of them symbolizes one of Roosevelt’s four terms as president. These spaces use statues, murals, and water features to portray key moments from the Great Depression through World War II. After all, the 32nd US president led the nation through these critical periods in American history.

You will have the chance to see powerful quotes etched in stone and large-scale bronze sculptures. These quotes include depictions of FDR, his wife, Eleanor Roosevelt, and his beloved dog, Fala.

The 7.5-acre memorial was opened in 1997, and one of its most distinctive elements is a statue of Roosevelt in a wheelchair, showcasing his personal struggles with polio and his leadership in spite of adversity.

We encourage you to explore the tranquil setting of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, as it offers stunning views of the nearby Tidal Basin.

Located on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, the US Capitol Building serves as the seat of the US Congress and a symbol of American democracy. Construction began in 1793, and by 1800, Congress held its first session in the newly completed north wing. Added in the 1860s, the iconic dome, which was designed by Thomas U. Walter, is a defining feature. It was influenced by European domes like St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. The Capitol has undergone multiple expansions, such as the addition of the Visitor Center in 2008.

The building itself has witnessed a handful of historic events. This includes presidential inaugurations and legislative milestones. You can tour the Rotunda inside, where notable American art, such as the “Frieze of American History” and “The Apotheosis of Washington,” adorns the walls. The Capitol Visitor Center provides you with guided tours that allow you to explore the architecture and history of the US Capitol Building. So, anyone interested in US history and politics must add this marvel to their bucket list.

10. DC War Memorial

This lesser-known monument on the National Mall commemorates the 26,000 residents of DC who served in World War I, including the 499 who lost their lives. Opened in 1931, the DC War Memorial was designed by Frederick H. Brooke along with two other architects. It’s a circular, open-air structure made from Vermont marble and stands 47 feet tall. The memorial also serves as a bandstand, large enough to accommodate an 80-piece band, symbolizing how music was once performed there in honor of veterans.

What makes this memorial so unique is that it’s the only monument on the National Mall dedicated exclusively to the residents of DC. In 2010, restoration efforts recovered its gleaming white marble and improved accessibility. Visitors can reflect on the bravery and sacrifices made by DC’s soldiers during the “Great War,” just steps away from other iconic sites like the Lincoln Memorial.