Audio Guide of Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. National Park Service staff are available from 9:30 am to 10:00 pm to answer questions. More details at: Official NPS website.

No, access to the Lincoln Memorial is completely free. No tickets or reservations are required to visit at any time of day or night.

Most visitors spend between 30 minutes and 1 hour exploring the monument and reading the inscriptions. If you plan to attend ranger talks or see exhibits, allow 1 to 2 hours.

It commemorates Abraham Lincoln, the president who preserved the Union during the Civil War and abolished slavery. It is also historically significant as the site where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech in 1963.

Sunrise and sunset offer the best photographic views. To avoid crowds, visit early (before 9 am) or later in the evening (after 7 pm). In summer, the evenings are cooler.

Yes, it has ramps and an elevator to reach the main level. There are designated wheelchair spaces inside. More accessibility details: NPS Guide.

Next to the memorial you will find: Washington Monument (15 minutes on foot), the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (5 minutes), and the Reflecting Pool. The National Mall is also nearby.

Wear comfortable shoes (there are steps to climb), and bring water and sunscreen. At night, it is magical to see it illuminated. Avoid blocking the main steps for photos during peak hours.