National Mall

Title: Exploring the National Mall: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Welcome to our guide on the National Mall – a sprawling green expanse in the heart of Washington D.C., home to some of America’s most iconic landmarks. This post will guide you through visiting, eating, staying, and engaging in various activities during your exploration of this historic site.

Visit:

  1. The Lincoln Memorial: A must-see, the Lincoln Memorial features a massive statue of Abraham Lincoln and inscriptions from his Second Inaugural Address and Gettysburg Address. The monument offers stunning views of the Washington Monument, the Capitol Building, and the Reflecting Pool.
  2. The Washington Monument: This 555-foot tall obelisk honors the first U.S. president, George Washington. Be sure to check the hours for climbing the monument as it reopened after renovation in 2019.
  3. The Capitol Building: The seat of the U.S. Congress, guided tours are available throughout the year. Book your tour ahead via Capitol Visitor Center.
  4. The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: Home to the Hope Diamond and a giant squid specimen, this museum offers an immersive experience into our natural world’s history.
  5. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: Located near the Tidal Basin, this memorial honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Eat:

  1. Ford’s Theatre Restaurant: Enjoy a meal at this historic site where President Lincoln was assassinated in 1865. Offering contemporary American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  2. Ben’s Chili Bowl: A D.C. institution since 1958, famous for their half-smokes and chili. Multiple locations near the National Mall.
  3. The Fish Market Restaurant: For seafood lovers, this restaurant offers fresh catches with a view of the Capitol building.

Stay:

  1. Washington Marriott at The Wardman Park: Centrally located, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations and is within walking distance to many landmarks.
  2. The Jefferson, Washington, D.C.: A historic luxury hotel with a unique museum-quality art collection.
  3. Capitol Hill Hotel: Affordable and conveniently situated near the U.S. Capitol and Eastern Market.

Activities:

  1. Bike Rentals: Explore the National Mall on two wheels. Bike rental shops are readily available around the area.
  2. Monuments by Moonlight: A free ranger-guided program that takes place select nights year-round to learn about the history of these iconic landmarks under the moonlight.
  3. National Cherry Blossom Festival: If you’re visiting in late March to early April, don’t miss this annual celebration commemorating the gift of cherry blossom trees from Japan.
  4. Freedom Plaza Concerts: During summer months, enjoy free concerts featuring a variety of music genres at Freedom Plaza, just north of the White House.