Washington, DC

Summary of Washington Monument

photo by gusto

Washington Monument

900 Ohio Drive, SW
Washington, DC 20024
202-426-6841

www.nps.gov

The symbol of the city of Washington DC, this 555-foot marble obelisk on the National Mall honors the nations first president. The cornerstone was laid in 1848, but construction was not completed until 1884. About one-third of the way up the obelisk is a visible change in the marble, evidence of the onset of the Civil War. Construction was halted during the war, and when builders returned to the same quarry to complete the project afterwards, enough time had passed to cause a significant change in the color. Admission is free, but you will need a timed pass (also free) for the elevator ride to the top.

Reviews

Incredible!

Reviewed by am-van on September 24, 2007

am-van's rating:

"The Washington Monument is truly amazing. We took the 70-second elevator ride to the 500-foot level where we looked out from all 4 compass points to see the view of DC and beyond. We could see everything! Did you know that it is the world's tallest free standing masonry building? The granite blocks are not held together with mortar, but rather with a little bit of caulking. Nice of them to tell us that on the way down instead of on the way up. On the ride down we got to see bits of the inside of the Monument. Memorial stones line the inside, donated and given from everywhere. It was fantastic! From what I understand they offer tours where you can walk up the stairs and see the entire inside of the Monument. That would be something--if we were in marathon condition! Free tour tickets are available at the ticket kiosk beginning at 8:30 am for same day tickets. If you are going during peak season, call ahead and request tickets for a $1.50 fee. It beats fighting the crowds."

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Monumental

Reviewed by inversed on January 21, 2007

inversed's rating:

"Beautiful awe-inspiring view whether you are staring up at it or staring at the city from the top of it. You can’t miss it. Worth the trip, but like other reviewers have stated, the lines can be very long so either come prepared or try off-peak times."

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the view is awe-inspiring

Reviewed by ohsostrange on January 09, 2007

ohsostrange's rating:

"You wait on line for several times as long as you’re actually in the monument, but it’s worth it, just to have been there. The ride up in the elevator takes quite a while, but the elevator operator tells you monument trivia during the trip. And when you finally reach the top, you’re rewarded with an incredible view."

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Fourth of July visit

Reviewed by Bostonian on January 09, 2007

Bostonian's rating:

"We sat under the Washington to watch the Fourth of July fireworks. I have never had a better view of fireworks! It was amazing!"

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This monumnet is huge!

Reviewed by sassylaurie on January 08, 2007

sassylaurie's rating:

"This building really can be seen trying to reach the sky among other things. It was very very big to say the least. My neck got kind of kinked trying to see the top, lol. This was probably one of the most awesome sights I saw on my trip to Washington DC, and before I bid you adu, it’s something I think you have to see once in your life. It trips the sky fantastic!"

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