How to Visit the Washington Monument in D.C.

The Washington Monument at dusk.

The Washington Monument was closed for a time in 2011 due to concerns following an earthquake. When the monument is open, it's available for tours every day of the year except July 4 and December 25. Park rangers will take visitors to the top of the 555-foot structure. Admission is free, but tickets are required. They should be reserved in advance through the government's recreation website (see the link) or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Things You'll Need

• Tour ticket
• Time

Instructions

1. Pick up reserved tickets at the will call window of the Washington Monument Lodge on 15th Street. The lodge is also the place to go at 7 a.m. if you want to get a ticket that day. A limited number of same-day tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

2. Check the nps.gov site for the "Schedule of Events." When the monument is open, this page will point out any events happening at the monument or on the National Mall.

3. Leave behind any food and drink, anything that can be considered a weapon, pets, suitcases or large backpacks. None of these items are allowed in the monument, and there are no places to store any such items.

4. Line up for your scheduled tour time 15 minutes before it begins.

5. Notice the special marble state monument slabs placed throughout the interior of the monument. Picture-taking is encouraged on the ride.

Tips & Warnings

• The Washington monument is open every day of the year except for Christmas and the Fourth of July.

References

• NPS.gov/Washington Monument
• Recreation.gov