Washington Monument and the WWII Memorial Pool

The National World War II Memorial, at 1750 Independence Ave SW in Washington, DC, sits on the National Mall between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, centered on a large oval Rainbow Pool ringed by granite pillars and fountains. The most popular frame looks east from the western side of the plaza, with the fountains and pool in the foreground and the Washington Monument rising directly behind them. Wreath-topped pillars representing the states and territories give strong leading lines and foreground detail. Sunrise and sunset are the best times: at sunrise the light strikes the obelisk from behind the photographer's position as the sky lightens, and at sunset warm light from the west falls on the monument and glows across the pool. The fountains run in the warm season, giving spray and movement, while still water on calm mornings produces reflections of the monument. Spring and autumn offer pleasant light and comfortable temperatures, and winter gives crisp, clear skies. A wide-angle lens captures the full plaza and the monument, and a polarizing filter deepens the sky and manages glare on the water. The memorial is open at all hours, and the early morning hours offer the fewest people; later in the day tour groups, school trips and veterans' visits fill the plaza, particularly in spring. Tripods are generally allowed in the plaza for personal photography if they do not block the walkways. Drones are prohibited in the restricted airspace over the National Mall. There is no entry fee. Restrooms are located near the memorial and the 17th Street side, and the Smithsonian Metro station is about a 15 minute walk. Visitors should remember that the site is a memorial and observe respectful behavior, including not climbing on the fountains or pillars.