The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial stands at 1964 Independence Avenue SW in West Potomac Park on the edge of the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC, in the United States. Dedicated in 2011, it was the first memorial on or near the National Mall to honor an African American and a person who was not a president. The centerpiece is the 30-foot granite 'Stone of Hope' statue of King, carved by sculptor Lei Yixin, emerging from a larger split stone known as the 'Mountain of Despair.' The two parts are linked by the line 'Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope,' drawn from King's 'I Have a Dream' speech. A curved inscription wall of white granite carries 14 quotations from King's sermons and speeches, covering themes of justice, democracy, hope and love. Cherry trees around the site bloom in late March and early April. The memorial is free, open 24 hours, and staffed by rangers from 9:30am to 10pm. A visit takes 20 to 30 minutes. The best photo angles are across the Tidal Basin, with the statue's profile against the water, and at sunset when the granite glows. At night the statue is lit, creating a dramatic effect. Crowds are heaviest during cherry blossom season, on the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday in January, and on summer weekends. The Smithsonian Metro station is about a mile away, and the DC Circulator National Mall route also stops nearby. Parking is limited.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open 24 hours; rangers 9:30am-10pm |
| Typical visit | 20-30 minutes |
| Best time | Sunset or after dark |
| Getting there | Metro: Smithsonian (Blue/Orange/Silver), about 1 mile walk; or DC Circulator National Mall route |
| Address | 1964 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024 |
Location
1964 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
38.8861, -77.0447 View on map
Highlights
- 30-foot granite Stone of Hope statue of Martin Luther King Jr.
- Mountain of Despair split stone entrance
- Inscription wall with 14 quotations
- Tidal Basin views and cherry trees
- Night lighting on the statue
Tips for visiting
- Visit at sunset or after dark for the best light and fewer people.
- Read the inscription wall slowly; the quotes are carefully chosen.
- Combine with the Jefferson Memorial and FDR Memorial on a Tidal Basin walk.
- Cherry blossom season brings very large crowds, so go early.
- Use the DC Circulator or walk, as parking is scarce.
When to visit
Sunset or after dark is best, with softer light and thinner crowds. Late March to early April is busiest for cherry blossoms.
Accessibility
The memorial is wheelchair accessible with paved paths and a gently sloped approach. Benches are available along the Tidal Basin.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend 20 to 30 minutes, longer when walking the Tidal Basin loop.
Is there an admission fee?
No. The memorial is free and open 24 hours, with rangers on duty from 9:30am to 10pm.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes. The statue and open space engage children, and the quotations offer a starting point for conversation.
Is photography allowed?
Yes. Photography is welcome throughout the memorial.