Washington Monument and WWII Memorial

This was absolutely one of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen in my life. The photo came out wonderful, but I would definitely recommend going there to see it in person.

The following day after I took this, I got to speak with several WWII veterans who were in Washington for a reunion. All of them had really incredible stories of the things they had seen and experienced--it made me wish I had a digital recorder. That may be something you want to consider if you plan a trip and the people you speak with are fine with it.

Washington Monument 7

Taken in September 2007.

The Washington Monument is exactly 555 ft. 5 1/8 inches high, with an observation point at the 500ft level.

Washington Monument 6

Taken in September 2007.

Washington Monument 5

Taken in September 2007.

Though surpassed by many steel buildings in height, the Washington Monument is still the tallest free-standing stone structure in the world.

Washington Monument 4

Taken in September 2007.

The Washington Monument is still the tallest structure in Washington, D.C. It was the tallest structure in the world for about five years after its completion, after which it was surpassed by the Eiffel Tower.

Washington Monument 3

Taken in September 2007.

To get tickets for the Washington Monument, you need to get to the kiosk (a small building near the monument) as early as possible the day you want to visit. It opens at 8:30 A.M., but I would suggest getting in line at least 30 minutes prior to that if you have a specific time you want to go up in it. Tickets are free this way. You can get more information about advanced reservations by clicking here.

Washington Monument 2

Taken in September 2007.

A completely free-standing marble structure (the steel inside is for an elevator and staircase but not the monument itself, the Washington Monument weighs an amazing 90,854 tons!

Washington Monument 1

Taken in September 2007.

The construction of the Washington Monument took place in two stages. The first was between 1848-56 and the second phase was from 1876-84. The Civil War interrupted the construction process in between. You can tell a distinct difference in the marble toward the bottom portion of the monument.