National Mall and Memorial Parks
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Nestled in the heart of the United States capital city of Washington, D.C., the National Mall and Memorial Parks is a vast green space stretching from the U.S. Capitol Building to the Potomac River. Originally established in 1790, this historical area features monuments and memorials across over 1,000 acres of land. With millions of visitors each year, this historic space has seen presidential inaugurations, civil rights movements, and even protests and rallies for political and social causes.
The National Mall and Memorial Parks area is home to many well-known structures, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. In addition, this space boasts numerous fountains, statues, museums, and galleries. Here you will also find the reflecting pool, made famous by Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream Speech."
How to Get There
The nearest major airport to the National Mall is Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia. Other major cities nearby include Baltimore, Maryland, Ocean City, Maryland, and Atlantic City, New Jersey. You can reach the National Mall and nearby areas by Metrorail, DC Streetcar, taxi, and rideshare. Bike and scooter rentals are also available in the area.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to National Mall and Memorial Parks
Visit National Mall and Memorial Parks
The National Mall and Memorial Parks are some of the country's oldest and most recognizable areas. Encompassed in the park area are several monuments giving recognition to important historical figures such as George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Thomas Jefferson.
The United States Capitol building frames one end of the National Mall while the Potomac River borders the other. The area between is full of rich history and culture and provides sightseeing opportunities for adults and children alike.
Given the volatile weather of the region, the most pleasant times to visit the National Mall are spring and fall. Both seasons offer mild weather. In the spring, you can see the blooming cherry blossoms. In the fall, vibrant colors of changing leaves adorn the scenery and fewer crowds fill in the green space. As with most tourist areas, early morning and later in the day, especially on weekdays, offer you the most unobstructed view of the memorials and monuments.
Keep in mind that this area can be very busy at times, hosting rallies, political events, and even protests. Check the schedule ahead of time to avoid large crowds.
Ticket Information
The National Mall is an open green space with many free attractions and places to explore. While some of the museums may charge an entry fee, most of the monuments and memorials are viewable at no cost.
The Washington Memorial, being exceptionally popular, is limited by how many guests may enter at once. For this reason, timed tickets are handed out and may be hard to obtain, as they are given on a first-come, first-served basis. You may order these in advance for a specified date and time for a $1.00 processing fee.
Family-Friendly Options
The National Mall and Memorials Parks is a great place to visit for family fun. The memorials and monuments offer breathtaking views and historical education opportunities. Visitor centers provide further educational programs and information. There are even junior ranger programs to take part in to get everyone involved.
Pack a picnic or bring some outdoor games and enjoy the lush green space filling the park. Rent bicycles nearby or bring your own and pedal through the area on the trails while checking out the amazing structures and scenery.
A classic carousel sits near the Smithsonian Castle for kids to enjoy a short ride. All year long there are festivals, concerts, and other family-friendly events in the National Mall. These often include live music, cultural celebrations, and other outdoor fun. Be sure to check the calendar for the time you plan to visit.
While the National Mall and Memorial Parks is a large area and involves lots of walking, there are plenty of spots to stop and take a break. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing for the weather. There are also water fountains and restrooms throughout the park so that you can continue your journey through the National Mall without leaving.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Start your journey through the park with a visit to the Washington Monument near the center, but be sure to try to get your tickets ahead of time if possible. From there, take a trip through the lawns to the east, admiring the beauty of the greenery, fountains, and statues and sculptures along the way. Stop into the National Museum of Art and the Smithsonian.
Upon reaching the far eastern end of the park you'll find the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court buildings. On your return back to the west, take in the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial, the Museum of the American Indian, and the Museum of Natural History, among others.
For lunch, you have plenty of options. There are dozens of food choices in and near the park for you to stop for a bite. Or simply pack a picnic basket and enjoy a relaxing meal in the bountiful green space of the park.
After lunch, continue your journey west through the park, and make your way back by the Washington Monument. To the north, you can view the White House, home to the President of the United States of America. Continuing west, you can visit the World War II memorial as well as the memorials of Thomas Jefferson, FDR, and MLK, Jr. At the end of your visit, be sure to stop by and pay homage to Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial.
National Mall and Memorial Parks Accommodations
Campgrounds Nearby
For some of the best RV camping in Anpolis, Maryland, look no further than Cherry Hill Park. Established more than 48 years ago, this campground has stayed in the same family all these years. As a result, it has a long history of serving both its local community and all those who want to stop by the area for a visit.
Greenbelt Park is run by the tiol Park Service. It is a green oasis in the urban area of Maryland and Washington, D.C. It is a rustic, Washington, D.C., campground, and the main amenity is the tural surroundings.
Louise F. Cosca Regional Park is administered by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. It has developed areas for playing and picnicking and wilderness areas for hiking just 15 miles south of Washington, D.C. Reservations are required for groups of six or more people.
Activities Near National Mall and Memorial Parks
Things to Do
Fishing
There are several public fishing spots located within the National Mall. Constitution Gardens Lake is a 6.75-acre lake in downtown Washington, DC, filled with largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. You can also fish along the banks at Tidal Basin and the Potomac River in West Potomac Park and East Potomac Park.
Nature watching
As busy as the area can get, you might be surprised to find wildlife running around the park. If you take a moment to stop and look around you may spot foxes, ospreys, red-tailed hawks, and the occasional bald eagle. There are more than 111 species of birds living in or migrating through the National Mall, as well as 23 species of fish and three reptile species. Monarch butterflies are an especially enchanting creature and call the park home during spring and fall migrations.
Boating
With water all around, there's no doubt you'll be itching to get off dry land when visiting the National Mall and Memorial Parks. Head over to Tidal Basin and rent a paddle boat or swan boat and soak up the sun while seeing the views from a different angle.
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
Weather in Washington, D.C. varies greatly throughout the year and can be unpredictable at times. Spring and fall are seasonably mild, while summer and winter can see extreme temperatures. If visiting in the winter, be sure to pack a heavy, warm coat, gloves, hats, and snow boots. In the summer, dress lightly to combat the heat, and be sure to include a hat or visor to shield your face and eyes from the sun. Rain comes and goes, so prepare to have an umbrella on hand during any season. And, most importantly, bring comfortable shoes as you'll do plenty of walking at the National Mall.
Safety & Accessibility
First and foremost, it is important to follow any and all park rules while visiting the National Mall. Some monuments and designated areas may have additional rules, and it is important for your safety and the preservation of these historic structures that you follow these guidelines. It is especially important to avoid any areas marked off-limits and to respect the wildlife in the green space and the historical integrity of the landmarks.
Be sure to bring along some water, sunscreen, or a map. Stick with your group as the National Mall and Memorial Parks is a vast area. Keep your valuables secured to deter pickpocketers.
This is a large area with hundreds of things to see, so make sure you know your itinerary before you go. If traveling with a large group, make sure everyone is aware of the plan for the day and is aware of meeting spots. Be sure to have emergency numbers handy in the event you get separated.
The National Mall and Memorial Parks feature wide sidewalks that are paved for people in wheelchairs. Most of the monuments and museums within the National Mall are wheelchair accessible with wide doorways and ramps. There are also accessible parking spaces throughout the area. Many efforts have been made to create an ADA-compliant and accessible area for all to enjoy.
Conclusion
The National Mall and Memorial Parks are an American treasure for all to see. From Lincoln in his chair to the wall of names in the Vietnam War Veterans Memorial, there is something for everyone within this vast historic piece of land. You'll want to take plenty of time to take in all the splendor the park has to offer.
FAQ
There are plenty of great camping areas available near the National Mall. Some of these spots are located within the bustling city of Washington, D.C., while others boast a more secluded ambiance outside of the city.
There are no RV camping spots within this park. There is metered parking all around and other lots nearby.
Always check the weather before heading out to the park. Northeast weather can change quickly so be sure to come prepared. In addition to weather, there are occasional times when closures or other restrictions apply.
This national park is extremely family-friendly! Education, fresh air, and more await you and your children within the National Mall and Memorial Parks.
You are welcome to bring your pets along on your visit to the National Mall. However, most buildings prohibit animals inside so be sure to check ahead.