Complete Guide to The National Mall in Washington D.C.

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If you’ve never visited Washington D.C. before, then there is a high chance you’ll find yourself at The National Mall, even without thinking about it.

And no, it’s not a shopping mall, but a vast T-shaped complex made up of several parks, monuments, and museums. On one side, you have The White House, the home to the U.S. President, and on the other, a majestic tidal basin that connects to the Potomac River.

To the West, there’s The Lincoln Memorial, an iconic landmark of America, which looks over the whole mall and towards the U.S. Capitol Building that sits on Capitol Hill on the East. 

There’s so much to see and do on The National Mall, it can be overwhelming knowing where to start.

But don’t worry, because this complete guide to The National Mall in Washington D.C. will tell you everything you need to know about visiting this important attraction in D.C.

What is The National Mall?

The National Mall is a huge landscaped park near downtown Washington D.C. and comprises monuments, museums, and parks. It connects many of the city’s top attractions and landmarks.

It’s a space for the local people to relax, contemplate and enjoy daily recreation. The park was the space that inspired many of the United State’s most notable people, such as being where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his speech “I Have A Dream” and where many presidents had their inaugurations.

So, why is it called the National Mall in Washington, DC? The name “The Mall” refers to The Mall in London, which is a promenade opposite Buckingham Palace where the city’s upper class would walk. 

The Mall in London was built in the 1700s, and The National Mall was built in 1791.

What is the best way to get around the National Mall?

The National Mall is around 309.2 acres in size or a five-mile loop walk. It’s pretty big, and while it’s possible to walk it, it will take around 1.5-2 hours just to walk it without stopping at each monument. 

The best way to tour the National Mall is to hire a bike and cycle from attraction to attraction. Not only is it a great way to get to and from each place quickly, but it’s also an experience in itself.

Biking around The National Mall gives you…