The District is packed with iconic landmarks and hidden gems that are easy to overlook when they’re in your backyard. If you are new to DC, showing friends around, or a local who’s never actually stopped to read the plaques (we’ve all been there), this guide’s for you. Here are 8 amazing must-see monuments and memorials in Washington, DC!
1. Lincoln Memorial
Address: 2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20037
One of the most visited spots in D.C. is the Lincoln Memorial, which honors Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln was the 16th president who led the country through the Civil War and abolished slavery. The Greek-structured building features a massive seated statue of Lincoln with a plaque of an inscription of his Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Address.
Interesting Fact: This is also the same site where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.
2. Washington Monument
Address: 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024
Standing tall at over 555 feet, this structure was created as a tribute to George Washington, the nation’s first president. Visitors are capable of viewing DC from the top of the structure by riding an elevator to the observation deck. Once at the top, one can see panoramic views of the National Mall and beyond. This structure is unmissable and viewable from almost everywhere in The District.
Interesting Fact: The Washington Monument is the tallest stone structure in the world.
3. Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Address: 2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20037
This deeply moving memorial is a tribute to those who passed or went missing during the Vietnam War. The memorial consists of a long, black granite wall with the names of more than 58,000 service members. Nearby are bronze statues honoring both soldiers and nurses who served.
Interesting Fact: This memorial was created by a then-21-year-old architecture student from Yale named Maya Lin.
4. World War II Memorial
Address: 1750 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
This memorial honors the 16 million Americans who served in World War II. With 56 pillars representing the U.S. states and territories, and a beautiful central fountain. Look for the “Freedom Wall” with over 4,000 gold stars, each representing 100 American lives lost.
Interesting Fact: A symbol of American servicemen during the war, named Kilroy, can be spotted in two locations of the memorial.
5. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
Address: 1964 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20003
This powerful monument pays tribute to the civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The central statue, “Stone of Hope,” is of Dr. King, where he is sculpted from the “Mountain of Despair.” This is a visual representation of lines from his famous speech “I Have a Dream.” The surrounding Inscription Wall features 14 of his most powerful quotes on justice, democracy, and love.
Interesting Fact: Through donations from the community, including individuals and companies, the memorial was built for $120 million.
6. Korean War Veterans Memorial
Address: 900 Ohio Dr. SW, Washington, DC 20024
This memorial features 19 stainless steel statues of soldiers on patrol, set in a triangular field. It commemorates the service and sacrifice of those who fought in the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. A polished wall has over 2,500 images, and a nearby Pool of Remembrance with the phrase “Freedom is not free” inscribed on the wall.
Interesting Fact: The national flower of South Korea, the Rose of Sharon, is planted three times in the memorial.
7. Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Address: 16 E Basin Dr SW, Washington, DC 20242
Set beside the Tidal Basin, this monument honors Thomas Jefferson, the main author of the Declaration of Independence and the third U.S. president. The bronze statue reflects Jefferson standing surrounded by quotes on his vision of liberty, education, and democracy.
Interesting Fact: This memorial alone attracts 2 million visitors each year.
8. Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Address: 1850 West Basin Dr SW, Washington, DC 20242
This open-air memorial follows the four terms of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, guiding visitors through the Great Depression and World War II. It features bronze sculptures and powerful quotes to create an immersive experience that reflects both the challenges and the strength of the American people during his presidency.
Interesting Fact: It took over 40 years to plan, design, and present this memorial.
