Lincoln Memorial Visitors Guide: What to Know Before You Go
Washington, DC is filled with scores of exciting things to see and do. However, the main attractions that earned it the title of one of the best places to go in the US are its 100+ iconic monuments and gorgeous parks where they’re found. Of these, the historically powerful Lincoln Memorial is a standout, thanks to its immense cultural significance and visually stunning presence.
We’ve created the following guide to help first-time DC visitors make the most of their trip. It includes what to know before you visit the Lincoln Memorial. We’ve also included bonus tips on nearby activities—from taking a scenic Potomac River cruise to strolling through the cobblestones of charming Georgetown.
Lincoln Memorial at a Glance
The Lincoln Memorial is a tribute to Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. It’s an extremely popular destination, consistently ranking as one of the most visited sites in the District. Visitors and locals alike flock to see it, and it welcomes 6 to 8 million visitors annually.
Here’s a quick overview of what to know about the Lincoln Monument before going:
- Where it’s located: The memorial sits at the west end of the National Mall, facing the reflecting pool and the Washington Monument. Visitors can access it easily by foot, bike, or public transit.
- Why it was built: The memorial opened in 1922 to honor Lincoln’s leadership role in the Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation. His legacy of equality and unity is reflected throughout the structure.
- Who designed the building: Architect Henry Bacon modeled the building after the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, to reflect Lincoln’s democratic ideals.
- Who designed the sculpture: The statue of Lincoln that sits within the memorial building was sculpted by Daniel Chester French. It was originally planned to be 10 feet tall, but the design was later scaled up.
- What the columns mean: Lincoln is surrounded by 36 Doric columns, one for each state in the Union at the time of his death. They emphasize his central goal of preserving national unity.
- What you’ll see inside: A 19-foot colossal seated statue of Lincoln—immortalized in marble—sits at the heart of the chamber.
- Why it matters today: The memorial serves as a powerful symbol of civil rights and other significant events. In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr.—who now has his own memorial in DC—delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech there.
- When to visit: Admission to the Lincoln’s Memorial is completely free. It’s open to the public 24 hours a day, and mornings and evenings are especially peaceful for taking in the views.
Best Times to Visit the Lincoln Memorial
While the Lincoln Memorial is impressive at any hour, certain times of day offer a more peaceful and memorable experience, especially if you prefer fewer crowds, softer lighting, and a more reflective atmosphere. Below, you’ll find more information about the most popular times to visit.
Early Morning
With daytime crowds still a few hours off, early morning is an ideal time to take your time, read the inscriptions, and admire the statue up close. Sunrise often brings a spectacular view over the Reflecting Pool, with golden rays and the reflection of the Washington Monument playing across its rippling surface.
Golden Hour
If it’s your goal to get a photo of the Lincoln Memorial statue bathed in golden sunlight, golden hour is the time to do it. During the hours just after sunrise and before sunset, low-angle sunlight casts a warm, directional glow that brings out the memorial’s depth and architectural detail. It highlights the marble’s textures with soft contrast and dramatic shadows, and you can get a stunning shot of it all.
Evening
For a quieter experience, think about visiting the monument later in the evening. The best time is after 9 pm, when the crowds have thinned. The memorial and surrounding landmarks attractions are beautifully lit at night, offering a peaceful setting for reflection. Depending on the time of year, you may even see the full moon rising over the Capital dome as you exit, adding a striking final view to your visit.
Cherry Blossom Festival & Fourth of July
Spring and summer bring two of DC’s most iconic events. Each year, cherry blossoms bloom around the nearby Tidal Basin, drawing visitors from around the world to the festival. On Independence Day, fireworks light up the sky directly behind the Lincoln Memorial.
Both are unforgettable sights—but they also bring heavy foot traffic. For a more relaxed way to take it all in, Sea the City offers exclusive Cherry Blossom and 4th of July Hot Tub Boat Tours. They’ll give you front-row seats from the Potomac without all the chaos you’ll get on land.
How to Get There
Getting to the Lincoln Memorial is easy, with several options depending on where you’re coming from. Whether you’re walking from nearby landmarks or coming in from across the city, it’s one of the more accessible spots in DC.
Here are a few of the most convenient ways to get there:
- By Metro: The nearest stations are Foggy Bottom–GWU and Smithsonian, both within a 10–15 minute walk.
- On foot: If you’re already at the National Mall or Tidal Basin, it’s a short and scenic walk.
- By bike or scooter: Capital Bikeshare docks and e-scooters are widely available throughout the area.
- By car: Limited street parking is available nearby, but it fills up fast—public transit is recommended.
What to Expect on Your Visit
The Lincoln Memorial offers a calm, open space that encourages reflection. From the top of the steps, you’ll see the Reflecting Pool stretching toward the Washington Monument, with the US Capitol faintly visible in the distance. Inside, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Address are etched into the walls. They’re texts that still carry weight more than 150 years later.
The memorial encourages quiet reflection, but it has also been a powerful stage for history, protest, and celebration. As such, it’s a space that deserves both awareness and respect.
After your visit, it’s easy to continue exploring with a stroll through the National Mall, a 2-mile park that spans over 1,000 acres. Known as “America’s front yard,” it’s home to attractions like the National Museum of Natural History, the Air and Space Museum, the National Gallery of Art, and the Washington Monument—plus, they’re all within walking distance!
Nearby Attractions & Activities
Once you’ve seen the Lincoln Memorial up close, a short walk in any direction will take you to other major landmarks, memorials, and some of DC’s most scenic parks.
Here are a few things to do near the Lincoln Memorial to add to your route:
-
- Reflecting Pool & World War II Memorial: The Reflecting Pool stretches out in front of the memorial and leads directly to the World War II Memorial, which honors those who served in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters.
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial: Just a 5-minute walk away, this powerful black granite wall bears the names of over 58,000 service members who died in the Vietnam War.
- Korean War Veterans Memorial: Located southeast of the Lincoln Memorial just a stone’s throw away, this outdoor memorial features life-size statues of soldiers and an etched mural wall.
- Constitution Gardens & the Tidal Basin: Enjoy a quiet walk through Constitution Gardens or follow the path toward the Tidal Basin for waterside views and seasonal cherry blossoms.
- Smithsonian Museums: Within 15–20 minutes walking distance, you’ll find several Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
- Georgetown: Just a 13-minute trip from the National Mall, this historic neighborhood offers cobblestone streets, waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and views of the C&O Canal.
Unique Way to See the Memorial: Potomac Hot Tub Boat Cruise
For a fun and relaxing way to take in the Lincoln Memorial, consider a DC hot tub boat cruise. You’ll get striking views of the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington Memorial Bridge from the water, all while soaking in a heated tub with Bluetooth music and BYOB perks.
Hot tub boat cruises launch from nearby docks on the Potomac River and run year-round. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or winding down after a day of walking, it’s a one-of-a-kind DC experience that’s bookable directly through dchottubboat.com.
Book Your Hot Tub Boat Cruise Now
Travel Tips for Visiting the Lincoln Memorial
Keep these travel tips in mind to to make your Lincoln Memorial visit comfortable and enjoyable:
- Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be doing more walking than you think.
- Visit museums earlier in the day, then unwind at the memorial or on the river.
- Pack light if you’re planning to combine your trip with a hot tub boat cruise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there an entrance fee?
Nope—visiting the Lincoln Memorial is completely free, and that includes the entire National Mall. There are no tickets or timed entry required.
Is the Lincoln Memorial wheelchair accessible?
Yes. There’s an accessible entrance with ramps, and an elevator to reach the chamber level.
Can you go inside the statue chamber?
You can. Visitors are welcome to walk inside, view the statue up close, and read the inscriptions on the interior walls.
How long should I plan for my visit?
Most people spend about 30 to 60 minutes at the memorial, especially if they’re taking photos or reading the inscriptions. Add more time if you’re exploring nearby monuments.
Is there a best side to photograph from?
Yes—the view from the Reflecting Pool side is the most iconic, especially at sunrise or during golden hour.
End Your Day with a View like No Other
We hope you enjoyed our Lincoln Memorial visitors guide and found it informative. After exploring DC’s most famous landmark, why not soak in the sights—literally—with a Potomac river boat cruise?