With these tickets to the Washington Monument, you’ll skip the tedious queues at the ticket offices and enjoy the best views of DC from a height of 169 metres (5545. ft).
Washington Monument: A Tribute to the Father of the Nation
The Washington Monument is not just a viewing point; it's a testament to the fascinating history of the United States. In this article, you will discover the story behind this 169-metre (554.5 ft) high structure that dominates the DC skyline.
The idea of erecting a monument in honour of George Washington, hero of the War of Independence and the country’s first president, arose even before the conflict had ended. The aim was to immortalise the ‘Father of the Nation’ as a cornerstone of the new democracy. In 1833, the Washington National Monument Society began raising funds for a design that originally included a circular pantheon with columns; this idea was rejected due to its high cost, giving way to the Egyptian-style obelisk we see today.
The foundation stone was laid on 4 July 1848, using marble from Maryland. However, construction was halted for 25 years due to a lack of funds and the outbreak of the American Civil War. If you look closely at the exterior façade, you will notice a change in the colour of the marble at a height of around 45 m (147.6 ft). This is the scar of history: when work resumed in 1879, the marble came from a different quarry.
The monument was finally completed in 1884 and officially dedicated on 21 February 1885. At the time of its inauguration, it was the tallest structure in the world, surpassing Cologne Cathedral – a record it held until the Eiffel Tower in Paris was completed in 1889.
Why Visit The Observation Deck at The Washington Monument?
With your skip-the-queue ticket, you’ll take the lift straight to the top of the Washington Monument and enjoy a unique view of the nation’s most iconic buildings. What’s more, thanks to the digital guide in English included in your ticket, you’ll be able to easily identify:
- The White House and the US Capitol
- The National Mall and the Lincoln Memorial
- The Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery on the other side of the Potomac River
- Washington National Cathedral.
Why Book in Advance?
Access to the viewing platform at the Washington Monument is limited, and tickets tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak season. This ticket guarantees you entry without having to rely on limited availability at the ticket office, allowing you to plan your itinerary with complete peace of mind.