National Mall

National Mall which includes a city, an administrative building and heritage architecture
Jefferson Memorial showing interior views and a memorial
National Mall
National Mall showing a park, a city and an administrative building
National Mall


Washington’s famous strip is teeming with American history in each and every monument and museum that you’ll see.

With its iconic monuments, such as the memorials dedicated to Washington, Jefferson and Lincoln, as well as its beautiful gardens and its richly packed museums, the National Mall is DC’s historic centrepiece. You can lose yourself exploring this area of the city for days on end.

At the stunning alabaster monuments to early American presidents Lincoln and Jefferson, you can join many Americans and visitors from around the globe visiting and taking a moment to admire the architecture and the impact made by the men honoured. You’ll spot the Washington Monument rising up in an obelisk shape to a height of 169 metres, the world’s tallest stone structure. When illuminated by night, the needle-like monument is a dazzling sight.

They are not the only great Americans whose role in shaping the nation is honoured here. See the tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. whose famous “I have a dream” speech was made here. Or see the monument to President Ulysses S. Grant who won the American Civil War.

As well as these great monuments and memorials that line the landscape of DC, you can explore the excellent museums to be found here. Among them are the National Museum of American History, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the National Air and Space Museum.

All through the year, festivals are held here. If you’re in the city during the spring, check out the Blossom Kite Festival and Earth Day. Independence Day and Labour Day celebrations held here include amazing parades and dazzling firework displays that light up the skies above Washington.

After all the time you spend exploring the monuments and museums, there is no better place than the National Mall to relax and unwind. You can go for a jog along the paths and through the gardens, take a paddle boat ride on the water, or play Frisbee on the open space across this remarkable patch right in the heart of DC.

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near National Mall

The National Mall in Washington, D.C., is a vibrant hub for visitors, offering a wealth of activities including art exhibits, shopping, and theatre. Explore renowned museums showcasing impressive art collections, indulge in retail therapy at nearby shops, and enjoy captivating performances at local theatres. The Mall not only provides a rich cultural experience but also serves as an ideal setting for leisurely strolls amidst historic monuments.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near the National Mall, visit CityCenterDC, located 1.1km away, with its vibrant city atmosphere. Union Station Shopping Center, just 1.6km away, offers entertainment and family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, Union Market, situated 3.2km away, showcases local businesses.

Recreation

Capital One Arena offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts, located 805m from the National Mall. For a cultural experience, Howard Theatre, 3.2km away, immerses visitors in live music entertainment. Meanwhile, Cosmos Club, also 3.2km distant, provides an exclusive ambiance for relaxation and networking.

Adventure

Explore the East Potomac Tennis Center, located 1.4km from the National Mall, for an energetic game of tennis. Alternatively, the Battery Kemble Trailhead, 8.0km away, presents a scenic hiking experience, while the Rock Creek Tennis Center, 6.4km from the Mall, offers another great tennis venue.

Nightlife

In Washington, the Kennedy Center offers a blend of culture and romance with its theatrical performances, just 3.2km from the National Mall. Regal Gallery Place, only 966m away, provides a cinematic escape, while The Anthem, 1.1km distant, showcases vibrant entertainment in a family-friendly atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near National Mall

The National Mall in Washington, D.C., is a captivating destination for tourists, featuring an array of memorials, historic government buildings, and museums. Visitors can immerse themselves in rich culture and history while enjoying family-friendly experiences. Key attractions include iconic sites that celebrate American heritage, making it a perfect spot for those seeking both education and leisure amidst the vibrant backdrop of the city.

  • White House: The iconic residence of the President of the United States, the White House is a symbol of American history and governance. Visitors can admire its neoclassical architecture and beautiful gardens, immersing themselves in the culture and significance of this historic Civic Government Building.
  • Walter E. Washington Convention Center: As a prominent event and conference venue, this centre buzzes with business energy. It hosts various exhibitions and gatherings, showcasing the vibrant professional scene of Washington, D.C., making it a hub for networking and innovation.
  • Smithsonian Institution: A treasure trove of knowledge, this natural history museum offers engaging exhibits that are perfect for families. Explore diverse collections that celebrate culture and science, making it an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

Best time to go to National Mall

The best time to visit National Mall is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for National Mall

To save money during your visit to the National Mall, consider travelling between December and February, when accommodation prices are lower. Aim for a Friday check-in, as it tends to be the least expensive day. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, and arrange results from lowest to highest price. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Exploring the area on foot is a great way to enjoy free attractions while keeping transport costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around National Mall are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around National Mall is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around National Mall is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable options and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation near the National Mall with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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