Washington D.C. Monuments Self-Guided Walking Tour

Here’s the guide for navigating your way through the monuments and memorials in DC. Bookmark this post for your next trip to DC.

 

We started at Parking Lot A on Ohio Drive, SW. Our Maps App took us directly there. There are three lots (A, B, C) and they are all paid parking, but we had no issue finding a spot, and even when we came back there were still plenty of spots. I know that this isn’t the closest parking lot to the monuments, but I don’t mind walking extra if we don’t have to circle around to find a spot. We paid to park for 3 hours, which is the maximum amount of time you can park in these lots. It is $2.30/hour.

 

From here, you will walk on the sidewalk to the FDR Memorial. There’s a lovely view of both the Jefferson and Washington Monuments. You can walk along the water – it is all paved, so bring scooters/strollers. 

 

FDR Memorial is really incredible, and I love how it tells a story. Be sure to see Eleanor, and FDR’s dog, Fala. There is a restroom as you continue up further.

 

Continue walking along the river (all paved/smooth) and you will arrive at the MLK Memorial. You will walk through the Mountain of Despair (the 2 large stones on either side).

 

Then, you will cross a street, and you’ll get to the more known area to see monuments. First, you’ll see the newest National Parks addition – The new Education Center and Horse Stables. You can see the horses from outside, but the indoor area is only open to the public Thursday – Sunday from 9 AM – 3 PM.

 

Turn right and you’ll be heading to the WWII Memorial. This is a KEY part of the journey if you have children in tow, as my kids got to rest with their feet in the water. (This is allowed, but wading in the water is not.) Stop here, relax and enjoy before taking on the next part.

You will get to the Korean War Memorial. 

 

Finally, you’ll wrap up by catching views of the Washington and Jefferson Memorials again. (We did pass the George Mason Memorial on our way there and back – it is very close to the parking lot, but we ran out of time/energy for that one.)

 

This took about 2-2.5 hours and we walked 4.5 miles.

 

1. Bring LOTS of water + snacks. (Secret stash of a special treat helps too!)

2. Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen.

3. Keep your kids close, as this is a very busy area.

4. Arrive as early as possible. We got there around 8:30 AM.