Lincoln Memorial

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.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is parking available?

There's limited paid street parking along Ohio Drive and near the memorial, but it fills fast. Transit, biking, or rideshare is far less stressful, especially in peak season.

Is the Lincoln Memorial open at night?

Yes, it's open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, and honestly it's more powerful at night when it's dramatically lit and quiet. Rangers staff it from 9:30a to 10p if you have questions.

How much time do I need?

Thirty to forty-five minutes is plenty to climb the steps, read the Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural on the walls, and take in the view. Add time if you're walking to neighboring memorials.

How do I get there on the Metro?

The closest stations are Foggy Bottom-GWU and Smithsonian, both on the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines, each about a 15-20 minute walk. Metrobus routes 32, 33, and 36 and the DC Circulator get you closer.

Where did Martin Luther King Jr. give his 'I Have a Dream' speech?

Right on these steps, in 1963. There's an engraving marking the exact spot on the landing where he stood. It's easy to miss, so look down as you climb.

Is it accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes. There's an elevator on the side of the memorial and accessible parking nearby. The chamber and statue viewing area are reachable without stairs.

Can you see the Reflecting Pool and other memorials nearby?

Yes. From the steps you look straight down the Reflecting Pool to the Washington Monument. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and MLK Memorial are all a short walk away, so plan to string several together.

Is there an entrance fee?

No. The Lincoln Memorial is free, requires no ticket or reservation, and is managed by the National Park Service. That goes for all the Mall memorials.

Nearby in Ask Washington DC

• Martin Luther King Jr. MemorialAttraction0.61 km · 8 min walk
• Washington MonumentLandmark1.29 km · 16 min walk
• Theodore Roosevelt IslandPark1.38 km · 17 min walk
• Immigrant FoodRestaurant1.41 km · 18 min walk
• Thomas Jefferson MemorialAttraction1.48 km · 18 min walk