William Tecumseh Sherman Monument
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Zero Milestone: The Historic Heart of America
Experience the Zero Milestone in Washington, D.C., where history and travel converge at the starting point of America's highway system.
Discover the Zero Milestone, a significant monument in Washington, D.C., symbolizing the start of the U.S. highway system and a gateway for travelers. This iconic landmark invites tourists to explore its rich history and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Zero Milestone
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Ellipse Rd NW, Washington, Northwest Washington, District of Columbia, 20004, US
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Getting There
Walking
From the center of Annapolis, head north on Main Street towards Maryland Avenue. Continue walking for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with State Circle. Turn left onto State Circle and follow it until you reach the exit onto West Street. Turn right onto West Street and continue walking for another 0.6 miles until you reach the City Dock. From the City Dock, you can catch the Annapolis Water Taxi that will take you to the Baltimore area. Once you arrive at the Baltimore harbor, you can take the Metro subway or a bus to Washington, DC. After reaching the L'Enfant Plaza Metro Station, transfer to the Orange, Blue, or Yellow Line subway heading towards the National Mall. Get off at the Smithsonian Metro Station and walk towards the Washington Monument. From there, head west on Independence Avenue until you reach the Ellipse, where you will find the Zero Milestone.
Public Transport
From the center of Annapolis, walk to the nearest bus stop and take the Annapolis Transit Bus Route 99 to the New Carrollton Metro Station. The bus ride will take about 30 minutes. Once at New Carrollton Metro Station, board the Orange Line towards Vienna. Travel for about 20 minutes and then transfer at L'Enfant Plaza to the Blue or Yellow Line heading towards Gallery Place. Get off at the Smithsonian Metro Station. From there, walk towards the Washington Monument, then head west on Independence Avenue until you reach the Ellipse, where the Zero Milestone is located.
Biking
If you prefer biking, you can rent a bike from one of the bike-sharing stations in Annapolis. Start at the station near the City Dock and head towards West Street. Follow the bike lanes along West Street towards the exit to Route 50. Take the Route 50 bike path leading to the Washington, DC area. Once you arrive in DC, continue biking towards the National Mall. Follow the path along the Mall until you reach the Washington Monument, then head west on Independence Avenue until you find the Ellipse, where the Zero Milestone is.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
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Combine your visit with a walk around the Ellipse Park to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
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Don't forget to take a photo with the Zero Milestone, as it's a perfect spot for memorable travel snapshots.
Discover more about Zero Milestone
Nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C., the Zero Milestone stands as a testament to the nation's rich transportation heritage. This monument, located near the Ellipse and just a stone's throw from the White House, marks the official starting point of the U.S. highway system. Established in 1923, it serves not only as an essential historical marker but also as a gathering place for visitors and locals alike, eager to capture a piece of Americana. The Zero Milestone is crafted from durable granite and features a simple yet dignified design, emphasizing its purpose as a symbol of connectivity and exploration across the nation. As you approach the milestone, take a moment to reflect on the countless journeys that have commenced from this very spot, and consider the roads that weave through the diverse landscapes of the United States.The surrounding area is equally captivating, with beautifully landscaped gardens and pathways inviting visitors to stroll and enjoy the views of the iconic White House and the vibrant Ellipse park. The monument is easily accessible, making it a perfect stop for tourists exploring the National Mall and surrounding historical sites. Throughout the year, the Zero Milestone serves as a backdrop for various events, including commemorative ceremonies and celebrations of American history. Be sure to bring your camera to capture this iconic landmark, as well as the stunning vistas of the city that frame it. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking to appreciate a significant part of American culture, the Zero Milestone offers a unique glimpse into the past and a chance to reflect on the journeys that shape our nation.
A brief summary to Zero Milestone
Use Zero Milestone as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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