Visit Washington, D.C.’s Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial, found on the National Mall’s west end, was built to honor the 16th President of the United States. It’s one of the most striking monuments in Washington, D.C. and crowds come here from around the world to experience the wonder of it.

The building is in the form of Greek temple. Inside is a large seated sculpture of Lincoln and inscriptions from two of his best-known speeches – his second inaugural address and the Gettysburg Address. Pivotal moments in American history have taken place here, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” speech.

Like other monuments on the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial is open 24 hours a day, and rangers are on hand daily from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Crowds can get big here, so plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon. The monument is always lit, meaning that visiting at night can be magical. To get the best view, start at the Washington Monument (to the east). Make sure to also take in the view across the Reflecting Pool and of the National Mall from the top of the memorial’s steps.