Lincoln Memorial

Activity Overview

The Lincoln Memorial stands as a monument to the "Saviour of the Union" Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. The building is styled in the manner of a Greek Temple and sits on the western end of the National Mall close to other sites such as memorials to World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Inside the building is a large marble seated sculpture of Abraham Lincoln beside inscriptions of two of his best known speeches, The Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address.

Things to Do

• Before bringing younger kids make sure you print out the National Mall Junior Ranger Activity Booklet. This booklet includes fun and educational activities for children based on the Lincoln Memorial and other monuments within the National Mall such as the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the Consitution Gardens. Feel free to ask the park rangers for help. Don't forget to bring the booklet to Ranger Station at the Washington Monument once you are finished to recieve Junior Ranger badge!
• Read up on the history and thought behind the monument before you go to make the most of your trip.

Lincoln Memorial Insider Tips

• Parking through out Washington D.C can be a hassle. Often it is easier to use the city's Metro public transport system, info for which can be found here. If you still decide to drive remember that free on street pparking is generally restricted to two hours while paid parking lots can be found downtown north of the National Mall.
• The memorial gets millions of visitors every year. The busiest period is during the summer months. If you go at this time of the year consider makinng your visit once the sun goes down to avoid the daytime rush.