Marvel at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Introduction to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Located on the northwest rim of the Tidal Basin, this 30-foot granite memorial honors civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Everything, from its address at 1964 Independence Ave. (symbolizing the year the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed by Congress) to its design (which depicts King emerging from a "mountain of despair," referencing his "I Have a Dream" speech), is intended to showcase King's considerable impact on American history. Notably, this is the first memorial on the National Mall dedicated to an African American.

The Memorial's Design and Significance

The memorial's powerful symbolism and stunning design are profoundly moving, leaving visitors with chills. Its location is also conveniently close to other important monuments, such as the Korean War Veterans Memorial and the World War II Memorial.

Visiting Information

Hours of Operation

The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial is accessible 24 hours a day, free of charge. However, National Park Service rangers are available to answer visitors' questions only from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

How to Get There

The memorial can be reached by walking from the Smithsonian Metro station. Additionally, it is accessible via one of the city's top bus tours. For more detailed information about the monument, visitors can refer to the National Park Service's official Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial page.