Shaka App - Audio Tour National Mall Trip Advisor Reference #1449279897
A night walk along the National Mall offers a stunning, crowd-free view of D.C.'s glowing monuments. A classic 2-mile route starts at the Lincoln Memorial and heads east along the Reflecting Pool, passing the Vietnam, Korean, and World War II memorials before ending at the Washington Monument.
The Best Night Walk Route
Stop 1: Lincoln Memorial – Begin here for breathtaking, illuminated views across the Reflecting Pool toward the Washington Monument.
Stop 2: Vietnam & Korean War Veterans Memorials – Walk east. The soldiers’ statues at the Korean memorial are especially haunting when lit up.
Stop 3: World War II Memorial – Continue east. The 56 granite pillars and glowing fountains beautifully represent U.S. states and territories.
Stop 4: Washington Monument – End your 2-mile trek at this towering 555-foot marble obelisk.
Important Tips for Your Walk
Hours: All major monuments stay open 24 hours a day, though park rangers are typically only on duty until 10:00 PM.
Parking & Transit: The closest Metro stations are Foggy Bottom (near Lincoln) and Smithsonian (near the Washington Monument).