Overview
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is a national memorial located in West Potomac Park next to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. It honors Martin Luther King Jr., an influential American civil rights leader. The memorial is inscribed with excerpts from some of King's sermons and speeches.
The memorial honors Martin Luther King Jr., a significant leader in the Civil Rights Movement, and serves as a reminder of his contributions to social justice and equality.
Location
Address
1964 Independence Ave. SW, Washington DC
Neighborhood: National Mall
Coordinates
38.880500, -77.030800
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May and September-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • Cherry blossoms
- • Spring blooms
summer
hot and humid
- • Extended daylight hours
- • Outdoor concerts
autumn
cool and crisp
- • Fall foliage
- • Cooler temperatures
winter
cold and occasionally snowy
- • Holiday decorations
- • Winter landscapes
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Free admission
- Bring ID for security
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low to moderate
- • stay hydrated
- • wear sunscreen
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit/debit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate or offensive clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but consider booking tours ahead
- • official website or trusted tour operators
- • varies by tour operator
- • available for special exhibitions
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
NPS App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map of the National Mall, Audio guide, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Nearby cafes
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
Distance: 5 miles
Travel Time: 15-20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2-3 miles
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: A powerful and moving tribute to a significant civil rights leader, offering a sense of history and reflection
Historical Significance: The memorial commemorates Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy and contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, making it a significant historical site
Insider Tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience
- Check the schedule for special events and ceremonies
- Explore nearby museums and attractions for a full day of activities
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the nearby National Museum of African American History and Culture
- • Try local food at food trucks around the National Mall
- • Ask for recommendations from park rangers
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for the statue
Result: Great shot with the statue framed against the sky
Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
Best Time: Sunrise
Tips: Wide-angle shot
Result: Beautiful reflection of the memorial
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Lincoln Memorial
Distance: 0.2 miles
Walking: 5 min
Type: Monument
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Distance: 0.5 miles
Walking: 10 min
Type: Museum
Washington Monument
Distance: 0.8 miles
Walking: 15 min
Type: Monument
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Distance: 0.8 miles
Walking: 15 min
Type: Museum
National Gallery of Art
Distance: 1 mile
Walking: 20 min
Type: Art Museum
Reviews
Based on 20,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early morning for a peaceful experience"
- "Combine with nearby museums for a full day"
- "Check for special events and ceremonies"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
161
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
20,000
Adult Entry
Free