The Washington Monument reopened its doors to visitors on July 14 after remaining closed for six months due to the COVID-19 public health emergency.
People will be able to visit the monument between 9 am and 5 pm every day of the week.
“In accordance with local and federal requirements, including CDC and U.S. Public Health Service recommendations, a comprehensive safety program has been implemented at the Washington Monument that includes timed ticketing and limited entries,” the monument’s website says.
Here is what you need to know ahead of your visit:
- Everyone is required to wear face coverings inside the monument, regardless of vaccination status.
- Visitors must reserve their tickets at Recreation.gov as day-of walk-up tickets are not available. Reservations can be made starting at 10 am one day before their planned visit.
- Up to a group of four people may enter with a single ticket.
- There is a non-refundable reservation fee of $1 per ticket.
- Keep in mind that National Mall and Memorial Parks staff may deny your entry, if you arrive later than the time on your ticket.
The Washington Monument is now open! Come see the amazing views of #WashingtonDC from the observation deck & honor the memory of George Washington. Tickets are required & can only be reserved the day before your visit at https://t.co/Ohz7IfDqGe pic.twitter.com/pw8Il8oujU
— National Mall NPS (@NationalMallNPS) July 14, 2021
The National Park Service prohibits a number of items inside the Washington Monument including:
- Food and drink (except a small quantity of sealed food items)
- Strollers
- Bags larger than 18 x 16 x 8 inches
- Animals (except service animals)
- Glass
- Weapons
- Ammunition
- Mace or aerosols
- Lighters
- Explosives or highly flammable substances
- Smoking
You can easily access the Washington Monument by Metrorail. (Exit at the Smithsonian/National Mall station and walk four blocks west to the monument.)
Paid parking garages area available near the National Mall and Memorial Parks, but street parking is highly limited. Parking and towing rules are strictly enforced.
In addition, Metrobus, DC Circulator, and Big Bus Tours, an authorized National Park Service concessionaire, all provide bus service to the Washington Monument.
You can reserve your tickets here.