Free self-guided walk · Washington, DC

The National Mall, from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial

A free self-guided walk along the National Mall from the US Capitol past the Smithsonian museums and the Washington Monument to the World War II Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial.

Distance
4.4 km
Walking time
59 min
Allow
About 2 hours with stops
Stops
5

Open the route in Google MapsWashington, DC city guide

About this walk

The National Mall is a grand avenue of lawns and memorials about three kilometres long. This walk follows it end to end, from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial.

Most Smithsonian museums along the way are free.

  • Terrain: Flat on gravel paths and paved walkways, step-free except the steps up the Lincoln Memorial (there is a lift). Long and exposed to sun.
  • Best time: Early morning, or at dusk, when the memorials are lit.

Route map

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Route and stop positions © OpenStreetMap contributors. North is up.

The stops

  1. US Capitol

    Start at the west front of the Capitol. Tours of the inside need booking.

  2. Smithsonian Castle

    The red sandstone building that was the Smithsonian's first home.

  3. Washington Monument

    The obelisk at the centre of the Mall.

  4. World War II Memorial

    The memorial of fountains and pillars between the monument and the Reflecting Pool.

  5. Lincoln Memorial

    Finish at the temple-like memorial with its statue of Abraham Lincoln.

Tips

  • Washington Monument tickets are free but timed; book online.
  • Carry water: the Mall has little shade.
  • Capital Bikeshare docks line the Mall if you want to ride back.

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Sources and review date

This walk was last reviewed on 2026-10-28. Distance and walking time come from OpenStreetMap's walking router and don't include time at stops. Opening hours and access change; please check before you go.