National Mall

The two-mile grassy corridor from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial that strings together DC's monuments, memorials and Smithsonian museums. It is the natural spine of any first visit, so walk, bike or picnic between the sights, though the full length is longer than it looks. Wear good shoes and expect little shade in summer.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What can I see on the Mall?

The Washington Monument, Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, WWII, Korean, and Vietnam Veterans Memorials, the MLK and FDR Memorials, plus the Smithsonian museums and the Capitol and White House at either end. It's the densest concentration of free landmarks in the country.

When is the best time to visit?

Early morning and evening are cooler, less crowded, and better for photos. Spring (cherry blossoms) and fall offer the nicest weather; summer is hot, humid, and busy, so start early and hydrate. Winter is quiet and often beautiful.

Where can I find food and restrooms?

Restrooms and food are inside the Smithsonian museums, plus seasonal kiosks and food trucks along the streets bordering the Mall. There aren't many options right on the central lawn, so plan around the museums or bring water and snacks.

How big is the National Mall and can I walk it?

It stretches roughly two miles from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, and it's deceptively large; the open lawns make distances look shorter than they are. Walking the full length with stops takes a good part of a day, so pace yourself and wear comfortable shoes.

How should I plan a one-day visit?

Pick a manageable slice rather than trying to see everything. A common approach: start at the Capitol end early, work westward through a museum or two and the central monuments, and finish at the Lincoln Memorial toward evening when it's lit and cooler.

What's the best way to get around it?

Walking is classic, but the DC Circulator's National Mall route (when running), bike share, and rideshare help cover ground. The Smithsonian, Federal Triangle, and L'Enfant Plaza Metro stops put you right on or beside it.

Is there parking near the Mall?

Limited paid street parking exists along Ohio Drive and nearby, but it fills early and is a headache in peak season. Transit, bike share, or rideshare is far easier and lets you avoid circling for a spot.

Is the National Mall free?

Yes, the entire Mall, all its monuments and memorials, and the Smithsonian museums along it are free and open to the public. A few museums require free timed passes, but there's no charge to walk the grounds or visit the memorials, which are open 24/7.

Nearby in Ask Washington DC

• Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture GardenMuseum0.19 km · 2 min walk
• National Museum of Natural HistoryMuseum0.3 km · 4 min walk
• National Gallery of ArtMuseum0.31 km · 4 min walk
• National Air and Space MuseumMuseum0.34 km · 4 min walk
• RasikaRestaurant0.58 km · 7 min walk