National Mall and Memorial Parks

National Mall and Memorial Parks

At the heart of our nation's capital, the National Mall and Memorial Parks is home to iconic structures and rich history. Plan your visit to make the most of your time in this exciting public space.

National Mall and Memorial Parks is responsible for over 1,000 acres of parkland containing many of the United States' more significant natural and cultural resources. The sites are cherished symbols of our nation, known worldwide and depicted on everything from currency to the nightly news.

Located in the core of the Nation's Capital, the park administers, interprets, maintains, and preserves the Washington Monument, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Ulysses S. Grant Memorial, D.C. War Memorial, World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, George Mason Memorial, Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol to the White House, the National Mall, East and West Potomac Parks, Constitution Gardens, 60 statues, and numerous other historic sites, memorials, and parklands.

National Mall and Memorial Parks is responsible for significant maintenance and preservation support for the White House as well as the United States Navy Memorial. In addition, National Mall and Memorial Parks cares for numerous federal park reservations which serve as welcoming gateways for visitors entering the historic fabric of the original 1791 Federal City.

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Image Credit: xiquinhosilva / Flickr Commons

Hours

Open 24 hours a day, except for memorial closures on December 25. 

Rangers are typically available at memorials from 9:00am until 10:00pm. 

(Note: Many places fill to capacity on busy, nice weather days, especially holiday weekends. Please call ahead or visit the official website to get the most up-to-date information before visiting.)

Fees

There is no fee to visit any part of the National Mall and Memorial Parks.  Timed entry tickets are required for entry into the Washington Monument and Ford's Theatre National Historic Site. Service fees may apply to advanced tickets.

Activities

East Potomac Golf Course - Located in the shadow of the Monuments, historic East Potomac Golf Course is a part of the National Park System. East Potomac features three distinct courses with varying features and levels of difficulty. Hosting over 90,000 rounds per year on its courses from residents and tourists alike. Address: 972 Ohio Drive, SW, Washington, DC 20024.

East Potomac Tennis Center - Located on Hains Point, a short walk from the National Mall. The Tennis Center is available year round with both outdoor and indoor courts. Address: 1090 Ohio Drive, Washington, DC 20024. Phone: (202) 554-5962.

Tidal Basin Paddle Boats - View the Jefferson Memorial and Japanese Cherry Trees from the water. Enjoy a family outing or take a break from touring and soak up some sun in your very own Tidal Basin Paddle Boat in Washington, DC. Address: 1501 Maine Ave, SW, Washington, DC 20024. Phone: (202) 479-2426.

East Potomac Aquatic Center - Heated Public Swimming Pool located on Hains Point, next to the Golf Course. Open from Memorial Day to October 2nd. Address: 972 Ohio Drive SW, Washington, DC 20024. Phone: (202) 727-6523.

Guided Tours - ​Park rangers offer a wide variety of programs and activities: talks, walks, runs, bikes, and more! All our activities are always free of charge.  A schedule of upcoming events can be found here.

History

For more than 200 years, the National Mall has symbolized our nation and its democratic values, which have inspired the world. The National Mall - the great swath of green in the middle of our capital city and stretching from the foot of the United States Capitol to the Potomac River - is the premiere civic and symbolic space in our nation.

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Last updated: July 08, 2022
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