Getting around the Lincoln Memorial and its surrounding area in Washington, D.C. is relatively easy due to the city’s well-connected public transportation system, walkability, and availability of various transportation options. Here are some of the best ways to navigate the area:
1. Walking
- The Lincoln Memorial is located at the western end of the National Mall, and much of the area around it is pedestrian-friendly. Walking is the most common and enjoyable way to get around, as the memorial is close to other major landmarks such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and World War II Memorial.
- You can easily walk along the National Mall, which is a large, open park connecting several monuments and museums, including the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol. It's a great way to see the sites at your own pace.
2. Public Transportation (Metro)
- The Washington Metro system is a convenient way to get to the Lincoln Memorial. The closest Metro stations to the memorial are:
- Foggy Bottom-GWU Station (Blue, Silver, and Orange Lines) — about a 15-minute walk to the Lincoln Memorial.
- Smithsonian Station (Blue, Silver, and Orange Lines) — located on the eastern side of the National Mall, a short walk across the Mall will bring you to the Lincoln Memorial.
- The Metro is affordable and a good option if you’re traveling longer distances within D.C.
3. Biking
- Washington, D.C. has a robust bike-sharing program called Capital Bikeshare. There are several bike stations around the National Mall, including near the Lincoln Memorial. Renting a bike allows you to quickly travel between the major monuments and museums along the Mall.
- If you prefer a more leisurely ride, biking along the Tidal Basin (especially during cherry blossom season) can be a scenic option.
4. Tour Buses
- Hop-on, hop-off tour buses are another popular way to get around D.C., especially for tourists who want to see multiple attractions in a day. These buses typically have stops at major landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial. They allow you to disembark at any of the stops, explore, and then continue on the next bus at your convenience.
5. Walking Tours
- If you prefer a guided experience, you can join a walking tour of the National Mall, which often includes stops at the Lincoln Memorial and other nearby monuments. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the history and significance of each landmark.
6. Taxis, Ride-Sharing, and Scooters
- If you're not in the mood to walk or use public transit, you can also rely on taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. These services will drop you off directly at the memorial or any nearby attraction.
- Electric scooters are also available for rent throughout the city and can be an efficient way to travel short distances around the National Mall.
7. Parking
- There is limited parking near the Lincoln Memorial, and it can be challenging to find a spot, especially during peak tourist seasons. The Lincoln Memorial Parking Lot is the most convenient option but fills up quickly. There are also street parking options nearby, but they may be expensive and limited in availability.
- For longer visits, consider using nearby parking garages or the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) stations if you're coming from outside the city.
8. Shuttle Services
- Some hotels and tour operators in Washington, D.C. provide shuttle services to major landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial. If you're staying in the city or part of a guided tour, check with your hotel or tour company to see if they offer shuttle services.
Conclusion
Walking remains the best way to get around the Lincoln Memorial and the National Mall area due to the close proximity of several important monuments and landmarks. However, public transportation, biking, and rideshare services are all good alternatives, especially if you need to cover more ground or prefer a quicker, more comfortable option.
