Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool — photo via Google
Place

Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

4.7(2742 Google reviews)
National Park ServiceChecked 18 days ago

About

Though not completed in time for the memorial's dedication in 1922, the reflecting pool has become one of the most recognizable and filmed sites in Washington, DC. The reflecting pool and the long promenade of Elm Trees on either side are key features of the Lincoln Memorial landscape.

Good to know

Free & open to the publicMonumentHistorical/Interpretive Information/ExhibitsScenic View/Photo Spot

Reviews from Google

View all on Google →
Michele Ridolfi O'Neill 33 months ago

Hopefully the resurfacing starts to move more quickly and it ends up looking better than it currently does without costing many more millions. I wish the actual monument attracted more attention than the work being done around it. Oh, keep an eye out for all the National guard troops hanging around the pool. They will definitely be watching you.

Mindy Kruty-Crothers 1a month ago

The "reflecting" pool is completely drained and fenced off. What a huge waste of money. I really expected to see people working on it to fix it, but no that wasn't happening. There were however plenty of National Guard soldiers walking around to arrest you if you tried to get a close up view.

Lonnie Perry 55 months ago

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is a peaceful and inspiring places in Washington DC, and visiting on a beautiful morning made it even more unforgettable. The stillness of the water, the soft colors of sunrise, and the perfect reflections of both the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument created a moment that felt almost timeless. It’s a place where the city seems to pause, and you can simply take in the beauty around you. The Reflecting Pool was designed by architect Henry Bacon, the same designer of the Lincoln Memorial, and completed in 1923. Its long, elegant shape was intentionally placed between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument to create a symbolic corridor of American ideals. Unity, sacrifice, leadership, and the ongoing pursuit of a more perfect nation. The pool’s mirror‑like surface reflects these monuments back toward one another, reinforcing their connection and inviting visitors to reflect on the history they represent. The area surrounding the pool is just as meaningful. To the west stands the Lincoln Memorial, solemn and powerful. To the east rises the Washington Monument, tall and steady. Along the sides, tree‑lined walkways offer shade and quiet, making it a favorite spot for morning joggers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful moment. The Reflecting Pool beautifully complements the Lincoln Memorial by extending its sense of calm and dignity outward into the landscape. What makes this place truly special is the atmosphere it creates. The gentle ripple of water, the open sky, and the symmetry of the monuments all work together to form a space that feels both grand and intimate. Sunrise is especially magical. The colors reflecting across the water are stunning, and the early morning calm makes it easy to appreciate the symbolism and serenity of the scene. Late afternoon and evening are also wonderful times to visit, with warm light and softer crowds. The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is a place that stays with you. It’s beautiful, peaceful, and deeply meaningful. A perfect spot to pause, breathe, and take in the heart of the National Mall.

Nicholas James 33 months ago

Under construction. I'd love to see it once completed, but as far as the reflecting pool goes, nothing to see at the moment. The memorial was surreal, massive, powerful.

Michael 13 months ago

This as well as the White House and other statues and parks have all been closed off due to the 250th American anniversary. I travelled over 3500 miles to DC. It was my dream to wear my a battered university t-shirt and run around the reflection pool or pretend to stretch as though I was an undercover FBI agent on a sting operation, muttering into my wired earphones. To see that the area was closed off was heartbreaking.

Reviews & parent tips

No parent tips yet — be the first to share what your family thought.