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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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