The Washington Monument, located at 15th Street Northwest in Washington DC, is an iconic symbol of American history and a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the nation’s capital. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, including the National Mall, the US Capitol Building, and Smithsonian museums, a trip to the top of this towering obelisk is an unforgettable experience. This guide provides essential information to plan your visit, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip to the Washington Monument.
Ticket Details for Your Visit
Access to the Washington Monument requires tickets, and there are a few options available depending on your planning and group size. It’s important to note that while there is no admission fee to enter the Washington Monument, a small service charge applies to advance ticket reservations.
Walk-up Tickets (Same Day)
For those who prefer spontaneity, same-day, walk-up tickets were previously available. However, it’s highly recommended to check the official National Park Service (NPS) website or recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information on walk-up ticket availability, as policies can change. During peak seasons, relying on walk-up tickets can be risky due to high demand.
Advance Reservations Online
The most reliable way to secure your visit to the Washington Monument is by making advance reservations online through recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. A non-refundable $1.00 service charge per ticket applies to advance reservations.
Tickets are released daily at 10:00 am Eastern Time and are available 30 days in advance of your intended visit date. Demand is exceptionally high, particularly during spring, summer, and fall, and tickets often sell out almost immediately upon release. To maximize your chances of securing tickets, it’s advisable to create an account on recreation.gov beforehand and be logged in before the tickets are released at 10:00 am ET.
If you miss the 30-day advance booking window, don’t worry! Additional tickets are released one day before the tour date, also at 10:00 am ET. This provides a second opportunity to book your visit if your plans are more last-minute.
Group Tickets (Online Only)
For groups planning a visit, group tickets may be available for online reservation. It’s best to check recreation.gov directly for specific information regarding group ticket availability, procedures, and any applicable restrictions or group size limitations.
What to Expect During Your Washington Monument Visit
Understanding what to expect during your visit will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience at the Washington Monument located at 15th street northwest washington dc.
Before You Ascend
It’s important to consider a few factors before your visit. Individuals who are uncomfortable with heights, enclosed spaces, crowds, and elevators should be aware that the Washington Monument experience involves all of these.
Prior to approaching the monument, it is recommended to use restroom facilities and obtain a drink of water. There are no restrooms or drinking fountains inside the Washington Monument itself. The nearest restrooms are located at the Washington Monument Lodge, conveniently situated on 15th Street near the monument.
Arriving at the Monument
Please carefully note the tour time printed on your ticket and aim to arrive at the Washington Monument up to 30 minutes prior to your scheduled time. The designated waiting area is located on the benches within the circle of flags surrounding the base of the monument. Signage outside the Washington Monument clearly indicates the waiting areas corresponding to your specific tour time.
Security Screening Procedures
All visitors to the Washington Monument are required to undergo security screening. When your tour time commences, park rangers will guide visitors in small groups to the screening area to prevent overcrowding. Prohibited items include weapons (including pocketknives), strollers, and bulky items. Wheelchairs are permitted. For a comprehensive list of restricted items, please refer to the restricted items page on the NPS website.
After successfully passing through security, you will proceed to the Washington Monument’s ground floor lobby to board the elevator.
Touring the Interior
The elevator ride to the observation deck, situated 500 feet above ground level, is a non-stop ascent lasting approximately 70 seconds.
Upon reaching the 500-foot observation deck, you are welcome to explore at your own pace. This level offers windows on all four sides, providing unparalleled 360-degree views of Washington DC. The 490-foot level houses a museum with exhibits and serves as the re-boarding point for the elevator descent. Visitors using wheelchairs can re-board the elevator at the 500-foot level to access the 490-foot museum level. Other visitors are encouraged to use the stairs to descend to the 490-foot level.
Weather Conditions and Potential Closures
Visitor safety is paramount, and the Washington Monument may be subject to closures due to unsuitable weather conditions, including high winds and thunderstorms. In the event of weather-related closures, tickets for the affected entrance times will be voided.
During thunderstorms in the vicinity, it is crucial to seek shelter away from the Washington Monument. As a safety guideline, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be at risk of lightning strikes.
The Washington Monument is also closed for routine monthly maintenance on one day during the first week of each month. Scheduled closure dates for 2025 include: Mon, Jan. 6, Thu., Jan. 9; Mon., Jan. 20; Thu., March 13; Wed., Apr. 16; Wed., May 14; Wed., June 4; Mon., July 14; Mon., Aug. 4; Mon., Sept. 15., Oct 8., Nov 6., and Dec 11. Additionally, the monument is closed on July 4th and December 25th. Always check the official NPS website for the most current closure information before planning your visit to Washington Monument, 15th street northwest washington dc.
