The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C., is a profound and inspiring tribute to a civil rights icon. Standing beside the Tidal Basin, the memorial features a majestic statue of Dr. King, his gaze fixed on the horizon. His quotes chiseled into the granite walls encapsulate his dream of equality and justice. The "Stone of Hope" emerges from the "Mountain of Despair," symbolizing his unwavering optimism. The site, particularly in the evening, carries a sense of reverence and unity. It's a place to reflect on the ongoing struggle for civil rights and to honor the legacy of a remarkable leader. A visit here is a poignant reminder of the power of one person's dream to change the world.
Restrooms
There is a public restroom near by.

I’ve been in DC many times but never had the time to visit the Martin Luther King Jr memorial, I can said that was a good experience , to walk around an read many of his quotes. This places has a very nice view and it’s by the water. If you are interesting in learning some history, this is one those places in DC. Ideal to come with the family or friends . Located in downtown Washington, DC, the memorial honors Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy and the struggle for freedom, equality, and justice. A prominent leader in the modern civil rights movement, Dr. King was a tireless advocate for racial equality, working class, and the oppressed around the world.

I can't really offer any additional information than what you have already read in other reviews. The memorial is gorgeously done. The setting was peaceful. We absolutely loved visiting. PROS and CONS(ish): 1. A little off the beaten path of the National Mall. Walk behind the WWI monument and cross the street to the MLK Memorial. Seek out signs. Otherwise, you might miss it and have to backtrack. 2. Plenty of space to move around and enjoy the memorial and quotes along the marble wall. Simple and stunning. 3. Great location for a ride share pickup/drop off. 4. Shaded areas to rest and enjoy the water and cherry blossoms (when in season).

The Martin Luther King monument in DC deserves recognition for its historical significance, but it falls short of expectations. While the towering statue of Dr. King is impressive, the overall design feels somewhat uninspired. The lack of interactivity or informative elements leaves visitors wanting more context about his life and legacy. Additionally, the surrounding area could use better maintenance. It's worth a visit for its historical value, but it may not leave a lasting impression compared to other monuments in Washington, D.C.

A nice place to visit. Learn a brief history through his speech. A great man, a man of peace, and love who was killed by hate. Turns on your other cheek, if your enemy strikes you on one cheek. Hate reflects fear, Anger reflects madness. If you think you're a good Christian, then practice your beliefs. Dr. King practiced what he believed in, when he knew that he will not live to an old age, that didn't stop him > can you say that. Thank you Nina Simone for putting his love into your song.

Beautiful Memorial to see. There’s a little time capsule at the very beginning that’s cool to capture and I’m excited to see it opened during my lifetime! We were on a bike tour with Unlimited Biking when we got rained out but continued on because we were soaked. It turned out to be a fun ride and educational too. I highly recommend Unlimited Biking’s Cherry Blossom tour around the Tidal Basin. Especially during the last weeks of March to see the Cherry Blossoms in full bloom.

This is one site you have to visit while in Washington, DC! The statue of Martin Luther is so POWERFUL! Its like you can feel the magnitude of what the King was like while standing by his statue. Along the wall you can read different quotes from the King himself.There is a beautiful view of the water as well. Go and visit, it's a must! Also, you can visit the MLK store that is near his memoral to get your stamp for you National Passport Book and other memorals around the area.

This memorial is honestly grand! Its great to be honouring a national figure in such a great way. The rocks are all so big and the amount of precision and effort and time put into it is very visible. And the view onto the water is also very great, though the sidewalk around it is often flooded, you van take some great pictures there, especially with the blossom trees. Great place and definitely something you wouldn't want to miss when going to Washington DC!

A beautiful memorial with all the quotes of Martin Luther King Jr. Engraved on the walls. They have atall statue of him which over looks the lake. This place is open 24 hours and anyone can walk in. There is no entry fees. We went there around 2:00am and the place still had a handful of people moving around. It's better to go a little later to avoid the rush. They have electric bikes which can be rented but the process to register for it is a little long.

A must see if you're in DC. Within walking distance to Lincoln Memorial & National African American History and Cuture museum so there's really no excuse not to experience this amazing monument. Pictures can do little justice to this ginormous MLK structure, literally larger than life (just as he was). Notable quotes are inscribed along the perimeter wall of the area as well. Restrooms, water fountains & gift shop on-site. FREE of charge.

What a great place to visit! Monument is beautifully sculpted and situated at a very nice place. Benches besides water have a nice view to sit down and relax with family. It was a hot summer day when we visited and a gentleman offered us cold water bottles. I am very thankful to the people of United States of America. Very loving, kind and hospitable people. Would definitely visit US again :)

We did a day trip to D.C. and there is so much to do that we are going to have to go back and stay a few days to really do and see more. It is easier to move around any kind of way except for your own vehicle. It pays to rideshare and rent the scooters. We went to early so we didn't get to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom, but next year we will go back to do more stuff.

The reverend Martin Luther King jr. memorial is one of my favorite spots just off of the National mall. It is located on the edge of the Tidal Basin approximately opposite the Jefferson Memorial. Though very simple, the memorial is an excellent place for reflection. Some of doctor King's most famous quotations etched in stone along the peripheral of the monument.

Taking the time to take in History and learn about the great people and places of this country I live in was everything! I wish that I had more time and more details to give. I must thank the wonderful Park Ranger for the small lesson that he gave us about this Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Monument. I saw it with an amazing new perspective after that!

A fitting monument for a man of great importance to the civil rights movement and social justice. The monument about 30 feet high looks like a large granite mountain and Doctor King moving forth from the monolith standing with his arms crossed looking across the Tidal Basin. Around the walls of the memorial are quotes from some of his famous speeches.

This is hallowed ground. There is a powerful presence at the Martin Luther King Memorial. It's an honor to experience it and read the powerful quotes as he spoke of true justice. I highly recommend as a must see and a must experience if you are anywhere near the Washington, DC area. I've visited many times and it never gets old. You'll be insoired.

This is an excellent place to go and learn about what is only on the surface of Rev. Martin Luther Ming Jr. The various quotes engraved into the wall behind him are examples of his ideology and his goals for where he foresaw the world having the potential of becoming. The sculpture itself is symbolic of his movement being able to move mountains.

Beautiful memorial “Stone of hope” of Martin Luther King. Interesting design: it’s not finished at the bottom to show that M. L. King didn’t finish his work. It’s carved by sculptor Lei Yixin. The inspiration for the memorial design is a line from King's "I Have A Dream" speech: "Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope."

Definitely one of my favorite monuments in the basin area. I've never been to the nearby bookstore (a crime on my part), but seeing Dr. King and reflecting on what he stood for is one of my favorite pastimes in DC. I also highly recommend going when cherry blossoms are in full peak during the spring, it's such a pretty sight!

A place for contemplation to remember the legacy of MLK. I was disappointed at first because it’s slightly off the memorial path, but once you get there you realise the symbolism of the whole art work from its location to its unfinished look. Just like equal rights is an unfinished work, so it’s the piece of granite.

The fact that this moment was glued together from pieces made in China and the glue/caulk is showing is shameful and takes away from who and what the monument represents. This made in China piece should be remade or if stone quarried in Georgia, USA just add many federal buildings and monuments were created.

A great monument to a great man and its placed in a beautiful area. Definitely something to make sure you see when you're in the area! It's placed in a great area to see on foot or be a tour bus!
Restrooms
The city restrooms that you pay a quarter for Don't go in them It's absolutely atrocious

Absolutely stunning! The design and placement is over all beautiful. Right by the water and with beautiful gardens. This is a must see memorial! They did a great job with this one! The memorial wall with his quotes light up at night time as well. The pictures do no justice for what you see in person.

Martin Luther Kings Memorial was well done. We are surrounded by history in this place. Man men and women have walked, cried, and died for change. The world is missing one important thing. Love. We love only those we know or we like. It's so sad we all can only come together in the face of tragedies.

I visit the Franklin D Roosevelt and the Dr. King Memorials yearly with out of town guests. Every year, I enjoy the peacefulness of the water. It's a must see when visiting Washington, DC. I also like to ride my bike here as well.
Dog-friendliness
It is a great place to walk leashed dogs.

Amazing experience, I have visited twice and each time I feel a peacefulness by the Potamac with Dr. King overlooking it and Washington monument. The store was opened, so I was able to get some souvenirs. A must see! Take the time to read snippets of his speeches on the wall, he was prophetic !

What a great memorial to see! It includes many of Martin Luther King Junior's quotes and lists when and where they were spoken at. It is a beautiful tribute to him. I definitely recommend to go at night as it looks amazing and was not many there besides our group that went. It is worth seeing!

I had an amazing opportunity to watch a movie on the grass across from the MLK memorial in Washington DC, and it was an unforgettable experience. The setup was incredible, with a large outdoor screen set up against the backdrop of the MLK memorial, creating a truly unique atmosphere. More

This is a beautiful tribute to Dr King. The larger than life carving faces east across the tidal basin. Visit at sunrise before the crowds and with the golden hour sunlight. The wall behind the statue is adorned with quotes while the surrounding area has an abundance of cherry trees.

Martin Luther King Jr. has been so influential in America’s history. This is such a beautiful monument to help commemorate the great and mighty changes he has brought to our country. The design is impressive and the art work is flawless. There are also many inspirational quotes.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is underway. This is one of the best locations in the city to get a panoramic view of the cherry trees around the National Mall Tidal Basin. Large crowds are anticipated for this first weekend the Cherry Blossom trees will be at peak bloom.

The 6 gour DC tour guide, TONYA, had explained things that otherwise would have been o erlooked... why his legs and back are not completed. Chris explained about the mountain of despair. Very touching. Grateful that DR. KING is being honored as the fight and journey continues.

I enjoy reading the quotes found on the wall of the Memorial. They cause one to think about justice and peace. The call to serve the greater good. The memorial has places to sit and either look at the reflecting pool or the face of Martin Luther King and think.

The location and orientation of the statue is really thoughtful. I went here on MLK day in 2023 and the environment was respectful, kind and contemplative. It’s a good space to be in for a bit and to consider the words and examples of Dr. King’s life.

Tucked away memorial but large once you are there. Glad to see this as part of the national mall area as it does deserve a lot of respect. The area is beautiful and can easily be missed, make sure to mark it on your map to stop on by and take a look.

Like all the monuments you have to stop by Martin Luther Kings too! It’s such a great metaphor. I found it somewhat interesting that the statue was build with stone from China brought over from the Chinese artist who won the job for the display.

It's a really beautiful memorial with a beautiful view. The sculpture is inspiring and it's surrounded by quotes. It's truly a place to visit. My mother who was born before the passing of the Civil Rights Act and who had been to DC before

Beautiful, serene, surreal. Those are the adjectives that came to mind as I approached this beautiful monument for the first time. Standing in front of the statue alone would be worth the price of admission. Add in the inspiring and

It's an awesome place to visit and the Big Bus has stop here too! It's just on the shores of the Tidal basin and there are other memorials close by to visit including the Franklin D. Roosevelt memorial, and the Vietnam War Memorial.

What would the Rev King ז״ל say if he were alive today to see how hypocrisy, inequality and injustice has grown since he was taken away? The moral arc of the universe needs a lot more bending. Rest in peace, Brother. We love you.

Great way to honor those who stood up for equal rights. Sculpture is amazing and there is a time capsule to be opened within the next few decades or so. You can see the Jefferson memorial from here as well.

remember a little of our history of the moments that marked a great watershed in the history of freedom of the United States of equality, fight and perseverance of the great leader that we remember

Much more moving to view during a night tour. Our guide was able to point out the features that the artist used to convey meaning. MUCH more enlightening than the first time we saw the monument!

One of my favorite monuments in DC. It is very cool at night but there is so much to see during the day. I tearfully enjoyed roaming the memorial grounds reading the many great quotes of MLK Jr.

It's a quiet place, next to the Potomac river. There are a few other memorials on this side of the river. It's a good place to walk around for a few hours. The national Mall area is just nearby

It was so cold on this day but if you go in the spring it’s really beautiful here because of the Japanese Blossom. Theres Bathroom and plenty of parking but you have to pay for parking.

Nice souvenir shop. Good variety. Wide range of items available. Wide variety of prices. Shirts cups books magnets even copies of famous speeches. Juneteenth and Obama items as well.

One my most favorite places in DC. Apart from the historic significance the surrounding is also extremely beautiful. A great place to just sit, relax and chat with friends or family.

Beautiful walk through this memorial during the cherry blossom peak bloom- but it is also peaceful year round. Access to the basin - views of Jefferson memorial and Lincoln memorial.

One of the interesting memorials at the Tidal Basin is the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. This is a nicely designed monument constructed by Chinese sculptor, Lei Yixin in 2011.

It was amazing to see this monument at night. The detail in the sculpture is amazing down to the eyelashes and the veins in his hand. Very well done and moving to see in person.

Visiting this memorial was definitely one of the highlights of our trip. The setting of the memorial was peaceful. The adjacent gift shop was nice and the staff was friendly.

The symbolism attached to the sculpture and the quotes were very inspiring. I found out on this last trip that Maya Angelou had a part in this as well as a Chinese man.

It was fantastic can be there, I didn't plan and it was great, the cold freezing but the landscape never before saw. I want to come back in April …

This was my first time here and it’s really awesome! As a bonus there’s a good view across the water to the Jefferson memorial as well (which we didn’t visit).

He wasn't done fulfilling his purpose. The sculpture reflects that. Wonderful quotes on the walls. Nice location. Easy to drive to and walk at night or evening

Can’t give it more than 3 stars but worth a stop on a cycle ride around the western monuments. If you’ve made it to Jefferson, come back to the mall via MLK.

The photos doesn’t do the memorial justice. I highly recommend visiting in person! One of my favorite quotes from Dr. King is located here.

Finally got to visit the MLK Memorial with my wife and our nephew. We rode on the Lime and Veo Bikes which were a blast …

Stunningly beautiful memorial and also a great learning experience. Views of the Tidal Basin and Jefferson memorial. A great family stop.

One of the most underrated monuments in the district. This will forever be favorite , and my #1 place to visit whenever I go back home.

Stunning, simply stunning. Placement, message and poignantly placed with FDR and Jefferson. Out of the Mountain of Despair….

Such a beautiful moment and the area where this is was so well built. Be sure to make time to walk over here when in DC.

A beautiful view looking out on the Potomac tidal basin. An inspiring place, full of Dr King's seminal quotes.

This was a special moment & Iam honored to see that Dr. King is acknowledged in DC. The memorial is well kept.

We went at night and the lights and illumination were perfect to get some beautiful shots …

A beautiful and very touching memorial to a great man. His words are relevant today more than ever before.

Beautiful memorial with engraving of some of the most important phrases on MLK civil rights movement.

Serene. The epic nature of the accomplishments of MLK beautifully presented in understated elegance.

Such a beautiful monument. I highly recommend if you are in the area visiting the other sites.

This part of the park is so moving. I am so glad to be able to see this monument with my son!

Visit at night, amazing and powerful. Take note of the direction he is facing.

So beautiful and meaningful. This tribute to Dr. King is a sight to behold.

Incredible tribute. There's a long wall with many quotes from his speeches.

Very inspiring place. I would hope it does the same to many. Of all colors.

I love the fact that Dr. MLK monument is looking towards the tidal basin.

A very thoughtful monument to one of America’s preeminent activists.

Very surreal sight to see. They did an amazing job on this monument.

Lovely work of art. You can also see his speech written on the wall

Remarkable statue I'm happy to have seen it now for the 2nd time!

Awesome very large . Beautiful work put into this whole monument

I recommend doing a night tour of the monuments if you visit.

Been here a few times. It’s always meaningful and beautiful.

Amazing monument! Wished all lights had been working.

Went on a Sunday. Was able to take so many pictures!

This is an amazing memorial! A must see while in DC.

A great place to reflect. Beautiful monument

Such a moving and inspirational monument.

Beautiful monument. Powerful

Best memorial of them all.