Top Attractions and Activities at the National Mall in Washington D.C.

The National Mall is the center of most sightseeing visits to Washington, D.C. The tree-lined open space between Constitution and Independence Avenues extends from the Washington Monument to the U.S. Capitol Building. Ten of the museums of the Smithsonian Institution are located within the heart of the nation’s capital, offering a variety of exhibits ranging from art to space exploration. West Potomac Park and the Tidal Basin are adjacent to the National Mall and home to the national monuments and memorials.

The National Mall is also a gathering place where people picnic and attend outdoor festivals. The expansive lawn has served as a site for protests and rallies. The impressive architecture and natural beauty of the Mall make it a unique place that celebrates our nation’s history and democracy.

These National Mall facts may surprise you:

• 25 million people visit the National Mall each year.
• More than 3,000 annual events are held on the National Mall.
• Every weekday, more than 440,000 vehicles travel along the National Mall.
• The National Mall has more than 26 miles of pedestrian sidewalks and 8 miles of bike trails.
• 10 tons of grass seed and nearly 3,000 yards of sod and turf are installed and planted on over 300 acres on the National Mall.
• Over 9,000 trees are located on the National Mall; nearly 2,300 are American elm trees.
• More than 25,000 local sports enthusiasts use the 15 softball fields, eight volleyball courts, two rugby fields, two multi-purpose fields, and the Washington Monument grounds for various recreational activities.
• Three to four tons of trash are collected and removed from the National Mall each day.

Attractions to Visit on the National Mall

The buildings and monuments of the National Mall can keep visitors busy for an extended vacation. There are museums to explore and places to wander. Here are the top attractions to visit:

• The Washington Monument – This monument honoring George Washington, our first president, is the tallest structure in the nation’s capital, towering at 555 feet. Visitors can ride the elevator to the top for a spectacular view of the city. Note that the monument is currently closed for renovations and updates are provided on the monument website.
• The U.S. Capitol Building – Due to increased security, the Capitol Dome is open to the public only for guided tours, conducted Monday through Saturday. Visitors must obtain free tickets at the Capitol Visitor Center to see Congress in action.
• Smithsonian Museums – This federal institution comprises multiple museums located on the National Mall between 3rd and 14th Streets. There is so much to see that it is impossible to see it all in one day, especially with popular offerings such as IMAX movies accessible with tickets purchased in advance.
• National Monuments and Memorials – These landmarks honor presidents, founding fathers, and war veterans. The memorials are beautiful to visit, and their unique views are breathtaking. Sightseeing tours are the easiest way to experience them, especially since they are spread out across the National Mall.
• National Gallery of Art – This world-class museum displays one of the largest collections of masterpieces worldwide, ranging from paintings to decorative arts. Despite its location, it’s distinct from the Smithsonian but worth a visit for art enthusiasts.
• U.S. Botanic Garden – This state-of-the-art indoor garden showcases around 4,000 seasonal and tropical plants administered by the Architect of the Capitol, and offers educational programs throughout the year.

Restaurants and Dining

The museum cafes often prove to be expensive and crowded; however, they are the most convenient dining options on the National Mall. Visitors can find a variety of charming restaurants and eateries within walking distance from the museums.

Restrooms

All museums and most memorials on the National Mall provide public restrooms. The National Park Service also maintains additional public facilities, and in major events, hundreds of portable restrooms cater to the influx of visitors.

Transportation and Parking

The National Mall area is the busiest part of Washington, D.C. The best way to navigate the city is by utilizing public transportation. Multiple Metro stations are within walking distance, making it vital to plan your route based on your intended attractions. Moreover, on-street parking is very limited, especially with restrictions during rush hours (7:00-9:30 a.m. and 4:00-6:30 p.m.). Available metered parking along Madison and Jefferson Drives often fills quickly and usually restricts parking to two hours.

Hotels and Accommodations

A variety of hotels are located near the National Mall, though the distance from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial spans about 2 miles. Therefore, visitors should be prepared to walk considerable distances or use public transportation to reach popular attractions throughout Washington, D.C.

Attractions Near the National Mall

• U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum – A significant memorial honoring the millions who perished during the Nazi regime. The museum offers a profound and educational experience.
• National Archives – Home to the original documents that established the American government as a democracy, this site showcases the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence.
• Bureau of Engraving and Printing – Visitors can witness the money-printing process and see various documents printed for government use.
• Newseum – This interactive museum emphasizes news and free expression, featuring multiple galleries and theaters focused on the First Amendment’s freedoms.
• The White House – A must-visit landmark for those interested in American history, dating back to its construction from 1792 to 1800.
• The Supreme Court – Open to the public, this building serves as the home of the Chief Justice and eight associate justices, the nation’s highest judicial body.
• Library of Congress – The world’s largest library with over 128 million items, offering numerous exhibitions and events.
• Union Station – This iconic train station and shopping destination also hosts a variety of cultural events.

Planning your visit to Washington, D.C.? Explore the Washington, D.C. Travel Planner for comprehensive information on the best times to visit and essential tips for an enriching experience.