Washington Monument

The Basics

The Washington Monument is one of DC’s most visited and photographed sights. You can admire it from street level and then take an elevator to its top and enjoy the panoramic view.

Washington Monument tours are included on many guided sightseeing tours of DC, and its proximity to other attractions on the National Mall makes it easy to visit a lot in one go. Bike, Segway, and hop-on hop-off trolley and bus tours let you see many monuments in less time, and many stop at nearby sights such as the United States Capitol, the White House, and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Washington Monument is a must-see for all first-time visitors to Washington DC.

• Entrance to the monument requires a free ticket. Reserve tickets in advance online or via phone, or pick up a same-day ticket at the nearby Washington Monument Lodge.

• Washington DC can have extreme weather conditions. Check the forecast and dress accordingly.

• Distances between monuments can be longer than anticipated, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• The monument is fully accessible to wheelchair users.

• You’ll need to clear a security screening before entering the monument, and you may be asked to leave restricted items such as food, glass containers, strollers, and aerosol cans behind.

How to Get There

The Washington Monument is located in the center of the National Mall, on 15th Street NW between 15th Street and Madison Drive NW. It is easily accessible by bus, metro, or bike, and (in some cases) on foot from many of DC’s major attractions. Avoid driving, as parking in the area is extremely limited.

When to Get There

The Washington Monument is open to the public daily, except on July 4 and December 25. The last entrance is an hour before closing. Washington DC is always busy, yet spring and fall typically offer slightly smaller crowds, pleasant weather, and colorful foliage.

See the Washington Monument in a Different Light

Come evening, many monuments in Washington DC are artfully lit, highlighting the drama and craftsmanship of their construction. A nighttime tour of the Washington Monument is a great way to appreciate the structure’s architecture under the glow of artistic illumination.

Is the Washington Monument open for tours?

Yes, the Washington Monument is open for tours. The landmark is open daily from 9am to 5pm, with the last admission at 4:30pm. However, the monument closes every year on Christmas Day and the Fourth of July. It also closes once per month for maintenance.

How hard is it to get Washington Monument tickets?

Same-day tickets to the Washington Monument are available on a first-come, first-served basis from 8:45am every day. Arrive early to guarantee your admission. A limited number of 24-hour advance tickets are available online from 10am the day before admission. Also, 30-day advance reservation tickets are offered online.

How long does it take to tour the Washington Monument?

That depends. Once inside the Washington Monument, it’s a 70-second elevator ride to the top. While there are no time limits on the observation deck, visits typically last between 20 and 30 minutes and include time to admire the views and browse the shop and museum before descending.

How much does it cost to go up in the Washington Monument?

As it is operated by the National Park Service, the Washington Monument is free to visit, with same-day tickets offered on a first-come, first-served basis. However, for those booking advance tickets online, there is a non-refundable $1 service charge per ticket to cover the cost of the reservation service.

Is it worth it to go up the Washington Monument?

Yes, visiting the top of the Washington Monument is worth it. One of the country’s most recognizable landmarks, it has been a highlight of the National Mall since its opening in 1888. At the top, there’s a bird’s eye view of Washington DC.

How early do people line up for Washington Monument tickets?

Wait times at the Washington Monument can vary—and are particularly long during summer and school holidays—but visitors often line up at 8am (or earlier) to guarantee their entry. Same-day tickets are offered on a first-come, first-served basis from the on-site ticket office, which opens at 8:45am.

Ways to explore

The Washington Monument is one of DC's most-photographed sights. You can reserve free tickets (with a US$1 reservation fee) up to 30 days in advance, or try your luck for the limited number of tickets released the day before or on the day of your visit. Once inside, you'll take an elevator to the top for panoramic views over the nation's capital.

The Washington Monument is a staple of DC sightseeing tours, and its proximity to the National Mall makes it easy to visit. Bike, Segway, trolley, and bus tours are convenient ways to see the attractions.

Accessibility

The Washington Monument is accessible to wheelchair users thanks to its elevator.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, binoculars, small handheld bag, sealed water bottle

What to wear

Wear comfortable layers for sightseeing and good walking shoes, particularly if visiting as part of a full-day DC sightseeing tour.

Not allowed

Large bags, smoking, pets, food and drinks

Amenities

Elevator, observation deck

Address 

The Washington Monument is located overlooking the National Mall, right in the heart of Washington DC. The area is well served by public transportation, taxis, and rideshare services. Alternatively, book a tour with included transportation for an easy way to get there.

Driving

Owing to traffic congestion and limited parking, driving around the Washington Monument is generally not recommended. Use local taxis or rideshare services instead.

Public transportation

Take the Blue, Orange, or Silver lines of the DC Metro to Federal Triangle, located within easy walking distance of the Washington Monument. The low-cost DC Circulator shuttle bus is also a great way to get around the National Mall.

Best times to visit

The Washington Monument is open from mid-morning until early evening. Limited same-day walk-in tickets are distributed 15 minutes before opening.

Best days to visit

The landmark is open daily, barring select holidays. Expect weekends to be busier than weekdays.

Best months to visit

Summer is the tourist high season in Washington DC and when attractions are likely to be crowded. Aim for the off-season instead.

Special events

While the monument itself is closed on the Fourth of July, the holiday is a great time to see it offset by the annual fireworks show.