Explore the Iconic Washington Monument Grounds
Discover the historical significance and serene beauty of the Washington Monument Grounds, a must-visit national reserve in the heart of Washington, D.C.
The Washington Monument Grounds, a national reserve and historical site, offer tourists a unique blend of history and serenity in the heart of the nation’s capital. This iconic landmark, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and rich history, is a must-visit for anyone exploring Washington, D.C.
A brief summary to Washington Monument Grounds
- 130 17th St NW, Washington, Southwest Washington, District of Columbia, 20006, US
- +1202-426-6841
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Check the National Park Service website for any special events or guided tours happening during your visit.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the expansive lawns while taking in the views of the monument and surrounding sights.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Northern Virginia, take I-395 N towards Washington, D.C. Continue for about 7 miles, then take the exit toward Memorial Bridge. After crossing the bridge, follow the signs to the Lincoln Memorial. From there, turn left onto Independence Ave SW and then right onto 17th St NW. The Washington Monument Grounds will be on your left. Parking is available nearby but may incur a cost, ranging from $2 to $10 per hour depending on the location.
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Metro
For public transportation, take the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) or Metrobus to a nearby Metro station such as King Street-Old Town or Franconia-Springfield. From there, board the Metro (Blue, Yellow, or Silver lines) towards Largo Town Center or New Carrollton. Transfer at the L'Enfant Plaza station to the Orange or Blue line towards the Smithsonian station. Exit at the Smithsonian station and walk about 15 minutes northeast towards the Washington Monument Grounds. Make sure to have a SmarTrip card, which costs $2 and is needed for fare payment.
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Rideshare
Consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Simply enter 'Washington Monument Grounds, 130 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20006' as your destination. The cost will vary based on your starting location, but expect to pay between $15 to $30 from central locations in Northern Virginia during peak hours.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, there are several bike rental options available in Northern Virginia. Use a bike-sharing service like Capital Bikeshare. Head towards the Mount Vernon Trail and follow the route to the National Mall. Once at the Mall, you can bike directly to the Washington Monument. Note that bike parking is available nearby, but make sure to secure your bike properly.
Discover more about Washington Monument Grounds
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
John Paul Jones Memorial
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Japanese Lantern
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The Lockkeeper's House
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General José Gervasio Artigas Statue
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Thomas Jefferson Memorial
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Smithsonian Castle
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Zero Milestone
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Experience the Zero Milestone in Washington, D.C., where history and travel converge at the starting point of America's highway system.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
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Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
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William Tecumseh Sherman Monument
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World War I Memorial
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George Mason Historical Marker
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Old Post Office Pavilion
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One Freedom Plaza
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Maine Lobsterman Memorial
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Unmissable attractions to see
National Mall
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Washington Monument
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United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
0.3 km
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Bureau of Engraving and Printing
0.3 km
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National Museum of African American History and Culture
0.4 km
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World War II Memorial
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Smithsonian National Museum of American History
0.6 km
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National Museum of Asian Art
0.7 km
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ARTECHOUSE DC
0.7 km
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The Ellipse
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Organization of American States
0.7 km
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Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center
0.8 km
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Signers' Memorial
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National Christmas Tree
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Art Museum of the Americas
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Essential places to dine
Salt
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Epic Smokehouse
3.5 km
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Quarterdeck
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Barley Mac
3.7 km
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Inca Social
3.8 km
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Mele Bistro
3.9 km
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Guerra Steakhouse
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Rhodeside Grill
4.0 km
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Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
4.1 km
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Ragtime Restaurant
4.2 km
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Enjera Restaurant
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El Fuego Peruvian Kitchen
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Fire Works Pizza
4.5 km
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Texas Jack’s Barbecue
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William Jeffrey's Tavern
4.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
White House Gifts
1.2 km
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Fort America Pentagon
2.6 km
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Chesapeake And Ohio Canal Historical Park In Georgetown
2.8 km
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Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Lock 4
2.9 km
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Pinktini Fashion Boutique
3.5 km
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francesca's
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Storytellerz Boutique
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Stars and Stripes Washington DC Souvenir Store
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Garden Fantasy
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Crystal City Shops
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Fashion Centre at Pentagon City
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Westpost at National Landing
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Life In DC
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A Mano, Inc.
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NT Souvenir Wholesale
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Continental Pool Lounge
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QUINN'S
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Freddie's Beach Bar & Restaurant
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Courthaus Social
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Verre Wine Bar
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Galaxy Hut
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Screwtop Wine Bar
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BABA
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Ms. Peacock's Champagne Lounge
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L.A. Bar & Grill
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Spider Kelly's
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O'Sullivan's Irish Pub
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First Down Sports Bar & Grill
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WHINO
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