The 3 Best Landmarks in Washington, DC
Ranked by our editorial Friend Score and filterable to exactly what you want — every pick verified and sourced, the way a local friend would tell it.
- 1Lincoln Memorial#1of 3free
The neoclassical temple at the west end of the National Mall housing Daniel Chester French's 19-foot seated Lincoln, gazing down the Reflecting Pool toward the Washington Monument. It is where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his I Have a Dream speech, a spot marked on the steps. Open 24 hours and free; it is most atmospheric, and least crowded, after dark when the statue is lit.
memorialnational mallfree24 hours - 2Library of Congress#2of 3free
The largest library on earth, and its Thomas Jefferson Building is the most jaw-dropping interior in DC. Free, but you need a timed-entry pass. Open Tue-Sat 10a-5p (Thu until 8p), closed Sun-Mon. Grab a same-day pass at 9a if you didn't book ahead.
- 3Washington Monument#3of 3free
The 555-foot marble obelisk at the center of the National Mall, the tallest structure in the city and visible from across DC. A timed ticket and elevator take you to observation windows near the top for the best panorama of the Mall and monuments. Tickets are free but limited, so reserve online in advance or grab same-day walk-ups early in the morning.
monumentnational mallfreeviewpoint
