The National Mall is a vast, open park in the heart of Washington, D.C., stretching about two miles from the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. It is considered the symbolic center of the nation and hosts many of the United States’ most iconic monuments and memorials, including the Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.
Flanked by the Smithsonian Institution museums, such as the National Museum of American History and the National Air and Space Museum, the Mall is also a cultural epicenter. The grounds are open year-round and are a favorite spot for walking, sightseeing, and educational tours. It’s also the site of historic gatherings and protests, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech.
The Mall is beautifully landscaped with lawns, reflecting pools, and tree-lined paths, making it a peaceful yet powerful space. Every spring, nearby cherry blossoms draw massive crowds during the National Cherry Blossom Festival. In addition to leisure and tourism, the National Mall is a stage for democracy, where people come together to celebrate, remember, or demand change. It truly embodies both the heritage and spirit of the United States.