Washington Monument Tickets: The Washington Monument is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. Standing tall at 555 feet on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., this majestic marble obelisk honors George Washington, the nation’s first president and a Founding Father. Visiting the monument is a must-do for tourists and history enthusiasts, but access to the observation deck requires a timed-entry ticket. Here’s your complete guide to booking Washington Monument tickets and planning your visit in 2025.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024, United States |
| Height | 555 feet (169 meters) |
| Construction Started | July 4, 1848 |
| Established | October 15, 1966 |
| Architects | Robert Mills, Thomas Lincoln Casey Sr. |
| Ticket Types | Online advance reservation, Free same-day walk-up |
| Online Booking Window | Up to 30 days in advance, tickets released daily at 10:00 a.m. EST |
| Service Fee (Online) | $1 per ticket |
| Same-Day Ticket Distribution | Washington Monument Lodge, 15th Street NW, starts at 8:45 a.m., first-come, first-served |
| Maximum Tickets Per Individual Online | 6 tickets |
| Maximum Group Tickets Online | 55 tickets |
| Monument Admission Fee | Free (service fee applies for online booking) |
| Observation Deck Height | 500 feet |
| Elevator Ride Duration | ~70 seconds |
| Operating Hours | 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily (Closed: Dec 25, July 4, first week of each month for maintenance) |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible; stair tours not available |
| Security Requirements | Screening similar to airports; prohibited items include weapons, strollers, bulky bags |
| Nearby Attractions | Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, Smithsonian Museums, National Mall |
| Peak Season | March–July, late December–early January |
About the Washington Monument
Located at 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC, the Washington Monument is a marvel of engineering and history. Designed by Robert Mills and completed by Thomas Lincoln Casey Sr., construction began on July 4, 1848, and the monument was finally established in 1966. At 555 feet (169 meters) tall, it dominates the skyline of Washington, D.C., and is surrounded by 50 American flags, offering stunning views of the National Mall, US Capitol, and surrounding memorials.
Nearby attractions include the Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, and various Smithsonian museums, making it an essential part of any D.C. itinerary.
Ticket Types for the Washington Monument
Access to the monument’s observation deck is controlled through timed-entry tickets. There are two main types of tickets available:
1. Online Advance Reservations
- Tickets can be booked up to 30 days in advance through Recreation.gov.
- Service fee: $1 per ticket (non-refundable)
- Ticket limits: Up to 6 per individual transaction; groups can reserve up to 55 tickets online
- Tickets are released daily at 10:00 a.m. EST, with additional tickets sometimes available one day before the tour date.
- Booking online is highly recommended during peak season (March–August, late December–January) due to high demand.
2. Free Same-Day Walk-Up Tickets
- Available at the Washington Monument Lodge on 15th Street NW.
- Ticket window opens at 8:45 a.m., first-come, first-served.
- A limited number of tickets are available each day, so early arrival is crucial, especially during busy months.
Ticket Pricing & Fees
- Admission to the monument: Free
- Online ticket convenience fee: $1 per ticket
- Group tickets: Same $1 fee applies per ticket, up to 55 tickets per group online
- Walk-up tickets: Free, no service fee
How to Book Tickets Online
Booking online ensures you don’t miss out on this popular attraction. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit official website and create an account.
- Search for Washington Monument tickets.
- Select your preferred tour date and time slot.
- Add tickets to your cart (up to 6 for individuals, 55 for groups).
- Pay the $1 convenience fee per ticket.
- Receive a confirmation email and print your tickets or save them on your mobile device.
Tips: Log in before tickets are released at 10:00 a.m. EST, especially during peak season.
Same-Day Tickets
- Walk-up tickets are distributed starting at 8:45 a.m. at the Washington Monument Lodge.
- Tickets are first-come, first-served, and lines often form before 7:00 a.m. during busy months.
- Only individuals and small groups can obtain these tickets; walk-up group tickets are not available.
Venue
Visiting the Monument
- Observation Deck: Located 500 feet above the ground, offering 360-degree views of the city.
- Elevator Ride: Approximately 70 seconds to reach the top.
- Museum Level: At 490 feet, featuring historical stones and Civil War graffiti.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible; stair tours are not available.
Security & Safety
- Security checks similar to airport screening.
- Prohibited items: Weapons, strollers, bulky bags.
- Water allowed only in clear bottles.
- Arrive 30 minutes before your tour time to account for security.
Nearby Facilities
- Restrooms located at the Washington Monument Lodge.
- Benches and shaded areas available for waiting.
- Visitors are advised to hydrate and use restrooms before entering.
Attractions, Highlights, and Events
| Category | Attraction / Event | Details / Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Monument | Washington Monument | 555-foot marble obelisk honoring George Washington; observation deck at 500 feet |
| Observation Deck | Panoramic Views | 360-degree views of the National Mall, US Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, and surrounding landmarks |
| Exhibits | Museum Level (490 ft) | Displays historical stones, Civil War graffiti, and commemorative plaques |
| Grounds | Monument Grounds | Surrounded by 50 American flags, walking paths, benches, and open spaces for photos |
| Nearby Memorials | Lincoln Memorial | Famous statue of Abraham Lincoln, reflecting pool, and historic architecture |
| Nearby Memorials | World War II Memorial | Commemorates WWII veterans; fountains and pillars with inscriptions |
| Nearby Museums | Smithsonian Museums | Includes National Air & Space Museum, National Museum of American History, and more |
| Seasonal Events | Cherry Blossom Festival | Springtime celebration with stunning cherry trees around the National Mall |
| Special Observances | Fourth of July Celebration | Fireworks, parades, and national holiday events on the National Mall |
| Walking Tours | National Mall Tours | Guided or self-guided tours covering monuments, memorials, and museums in the area |
| Photography Highlights | Sunset & Night Views | Best times for photography: sunrise, sunset, and evening illumination of monuments |
| Accessibility | Visitor Facilities | Wheelchair accessible, benches, shaded areas, nearby restrooms at the Monument Lodge |
| Security & Safety | Visitor Screening | All visitors subject to airport-style security; water allowed only in clear bottles |
“Do’s & Don’ts” list for visitors to the Washington Monument
Do’s
- Book tickets online in advance or arrive early for same-day tickets.
- Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time.
- Carry a printed ticket or keep a digital copy on your mobile.
- Follow security guidelines and screening procedures.
- Bring water in a clear plastic bottle.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking.
- Take advantage of nearby attractions and walking paths.
- Respect accessibility accommodations for visitors with disabilities.
Don’ts
- Don’t bring weapons, strollers, or bulky items inside the monument.
- Don’t attempt stair tours—they are no longer available.
- Don’t be late; late arrivals may be denied entry.
- Don’t leave trash on the monument grounds; use designated bins.
- Don’t ignore weather warnings; the monument may close during storms.
- Don’t block walkways or elevator areas; follow ranger instructions.
Tour Tips
- Peak season: March–July and late December–early January; tickets sell out quickly.
- Weather considerations: The monument closes during thunderstorms or high winds.
- Extended hours: Not currently available; check online for special holiday schedules.
- Accessibility tips: Elevators accommodate wheelchairs; stair access is unavailable.
FAQs
1. Are tickets required to enter the Washington Monument?
Yes, all visitors must have a timed-entry ticket, either online advance reservation or same-day walk-up.
2. How can I book tickets online?
Tickets can be reserved at Recreation.gov up to 30 days in advance. A $1 convenience fee applies per ticket.
3. Are there same-day tickets available?
Yes, a limited number of free same-day tickets are distributed at the Washington Monument Lodge on 15th Street NW starting at 8:45 a.m.
4. How many tickets can I book online per person?
Up to 6 tickets per individual transaction; groups can reserve up to 55 tickets online.
5. Is there an admission fee to enter the monument?
No, admission is free. The $1 fee only applies for online reservations.
6. How long is the elevator ride to the observation deck?
The nonstop elevator ride to the top takes approximately 70 seconds.
7. Are there restrooms inside the monument?
No, the nearest restrooms are at the Washington Monument Lodge on 15th Street.
8. Is the monument accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the monument is wheelchair accessible. Stair tours are no longer available.
9. What items are restricted inside the monument?
Weapons, strollers, and bulky bags are prohibited. Water is allowed only in clear plastic bottles.
10. When is the Washington Monument closed?
- Dec 25 and July 4
- One day per month for maintenance
- During thunderstorms or high winds for safety reasons
11. What should I do if I miss my ticket time?
Late arrivals may be denied entry. Always arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled time to ensure access.
12. Can groups use same-day walk-up tickets?
No, group tickets are only available online for up to 55 people.
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