Lincoln Memorial

Things To Do Near Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is located an easy walk from some of the most famous attractions in the United States. Take a walk or a bike ride, or rent one of the electric scooters in the area, and spend the afternoon buzzing around the National Mall. A selection of the country's best museums and monuments sit close by, and Washington, D.C. features exceptional restaurants and shopping just minutes away.

Hiking Trails

• Reflecting Pool

  The easiest and shortest walk near the Lincoln Memorial is the path around the Reflecting Pool. You have two options: you can take the trail that runs through the trees on either side of the pool, or you can walk on the sidewalk right next to the water. Both paths start at the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial's steps. On a hot, humid summer day in Washington, D.C., the former is an easy way to find relief from the heat. At the end of the pool, you'll find the World War II Memorial; this is also a fantastic spot to photograph the Lincoln Memorial. If you want to keep going, you can cross the street and walk the trails to the Washington Monument, down the National Mall, and all the way to the U.S. Capitol building.

  Location

  Lincoln Memorial

  Length

  0.8 miles

  Intensity

  Easy

• Constitution Gardens Trails

  Get away from the crowds at the Lincoln Memorial on the Constitution Gardens Trails. From the steps of the memorial, head north along Lincoln Memorial Circle NW; turn right when you get to Henry Bacon Drive, and you'll see the network of trails branching off to the east. Walk through the trees, check out the Vietnam Women's Memorial, and enjoy the pastoral views. The paths circle a beautiful lawn in multiple small loops; there are also plenty of benches along the way. Make sure to cross the small bridge onto the Constitution Gardens island.

  Location

  Lincoln Memorial

  Length

  Varies

  Intensity

  Easy

• Tidal Basin Loop Trail

  Take in more of the legendary Washington, D.C., views on the Tidal Basin Loop Trail. To get there, walk south from the Lincoln Memorial or the Reflecting pool, cross Independence Avenue, and head east until you see the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. The trail starts next to the water behind the memorial and runs around the basin. During cherry blossom season, this is the place to see the trees in full bloom. Make sure your camera is charged — as you walk, you'll see spectacular views of the Washington Monument, the Japanese Pagoda, and the spectacular Thomas Jefferson Memorial. If you have time, hang out at the beach, or rent a paddleboat.

  Location

  Tidal Basin, Washington D.C.

  Length

  2.1 miles

  Intensity

  Easy

Sightseeing

• Washington Monument

  No trip to the Lincoln Memorial is complete without a visit to the Washington Monument. It sits due east; you can see it from the steps of the memorial. If you reserve a ticket, you can go to the top of the Washington Monument. If it's closed, you'll get an impressive view from anywhere on the lawn. When the weather is nice, you'll often see people relaxing on the grass.

  Location

  2 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20024

• National Mall

  The National Mall is the most-visited national park in the United States; it consists of a long, rectangular lawn that stretches from the Washington Monument to the U.S. Capitol. Walking paths line either side of the lawn, so you can walk the entire distance without encountering traffic. As you explore, check out the Smithsonian museums, the Enid A. Haupt Garden, the Smithsonian Castle, the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden, and the Native American Veterans Memorial. At the end of the Mall, cross the street, and hang out by the Capitol Reflecting Pool before continuing to Capitol Hill.

  Location

  900 Ohio Drive SW, Washington, D.C. 20024

• United States Capitol

  The United States Capitol is the center of government; it's home to the Senate and the House of Representatives. When you visit, the only way to go inside is on a guided tour; you can book it online or through the offices of your representative or senator. In some cases, you can get same-day tour passes from the Visitor Center.

  Location

  First St NE, Washington, D.C. 20515

Museums

• National Museum of African American History and Culture

  One of the most celebrated museums in Washington, D.C., the National Museum of African American History and Cultureis located a short walk from the Lincoln Memorial. This fascinating spot tells the story of the United States from the perspective of African Americans. Exceptional exhibits explore slavery, military history, cultural traditions, Civil Rights, and the many ways that African Americans have shaped the country.

  Location

  1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20560

• Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

  If you're interested in air or space travel, head to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Here, you can see historic aircraft, rockets, interactive exhibits, and more.

  Location

  600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, D.C. 20560

• National Gallery of Art

  One of the most important art museums in the country, the National Gallery of Art is home to countless masterpieces. Explore the tradition of American art, and check out paintings from legendary artists from around the world. When you're ready for fresh air, take a stroll through the beautiful sculpture garden on the museum's grounds.

  Location

  Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20565

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• The Gallery Shops

  Located in the National Gallery of Art, The Gallery Shops are the perfect place to find a sophisticated souvenir. From coffee table books to artistic postcards, every item features a beautiful design. 

  Location

  401 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20565

• Washington D.C. Gift Shop

  Pick up all of the souvenirs you need at the Washington D.C. Gift Shop. In addition to the usual hats and T-shirts, you'll find collectibles, sculptures, and more.

  Location

  1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW #190-602, Washington, D.C. 20004

• Taberna del Alabardero

  Enjoy traditional Spanish food in a lavish setting at Taberna del Alabardero. If possible, snag an outdoor table for excellent people watching.

  Location

  1776 I Street, Washington, D.C., DC 20006

• Old Ebbitt Grill

  Located a few minutes' walk from the White House, the Old Ebbitt Grill serves American classic in a historic Victorian-era building. The restaurant also offers a beautiful outdoor seating area.

  Location

  675 15th St NW, Washington, D.C., DC 20005

How To Get To Lincoln Memorial

Many roads lead to the Lincoln Memorial; one of the fastest ways is to take I-66 across the Potomac River. From there, you can connect to Constitution Avenue NW or Independence Avenue SW. You'll find parking along Ohio Drive SW or in the parking lots near the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Parking is extremely limited, so it's often easier to park outside the city center and take the Metro in. The closest stop is Foggy Bottom.

Address

2 Lincoln Memorial Circle, NW, Washington, D.C. 20002

Fee: Entry fee $0

The Lincoln Memorial is a wonderful place to reflect on the history of the United States and the contributions of Abraham Lincoln. It's a great jumping-off point for a visit to the rest of the many attractions near the National Mall. No matter when you're visiting Washington, D.C., an RV is a great way to cut costs and to enjoy a relaxing stay in one of the RV parks on the outskirts of the city.