Visiting Washington DC is a must-do for anyone interested in American history. The nation’s capital is filled with iconic monuments, memorials, and museums that tell the story of America’s past and present. However, many visitors to Washington DC are unaware of the best places to park when they’re ready to explore the city. Here’s a guide to the best places to park in Washington DC to see the monuments.
The Mall
The National Mall is a two-mile stretch of green space in the heart of Washington DC that is home to some of the most iconic monuments and memorials in the US. The National Mall is a great place to start your DC sightseeing, and it’s easy to find parking nearby. The Smithsonian Institution operates several large parking garages on the Mall, including the Arts and Industries Building, the Castle, and the Hirshhorn Museum. All of these garages are open from 8am to 8pm and offer easy access to the Mall.
For those who are looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are several metered parking lots located near the Mall. The best of these is the Constitution Avenue pay lot, which is just a few blocks away from the Smithsonian Castle. This lot has spaces for both cars and buses, and it is open from 8am to 8pm.
The Tidal Basin
The Tidal Basin is home to some of Washington DC’s most iconic monuments and memorials, including the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Parking near the Tidal Basin can be a bit tricky, as there are no dedicated parking lots or garages. However, there are several metered parking lots located nearby, including the East Potomac Park pay lot and the Hains Point pay lot. Both of these lots are open from 8am to 8pm, and they offer easy access to the Tidal Basin.
The White House
The White House is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Washington DC, and it’s easy to find parking nearby. The closest parking lot is the White House Visitor Center pay lot, which is located on Pennsylvania Avenue. This lot offers easy access to the White House and is open from 8am to 8pm. There are also several metered parking lots located nearby, including the Lafayette Square pay lot and the Ellipse pay lot. Both of these lots are open from 8am to 8pm.
The National Zoo
The National Zoo is a great place to spend an afternoon in Washington DC. The Zoo has a large parking lot located just off Rock Creek Parkway, which is open from 8am to 8pm. This lot offers easy access to the Zoo and is one of the best places to park when visiting the National Zoo.
The U.S. Capitol
The U.S. Capitol is one of the most iconic buildings in Washington DC, and it’s easy to find parking nearby. The closest parking lot is the Capitol Visitor Center pay lot, which is located directly across from the Capitol. This lot is open from 8am to 8pm and offers easy access to the Capitol. There are also several metered parking lots located nearby, including the Union Station pay lot and the Mall pay lot. Both of these lots are open from 8am to 8pm.
The National Archives
The National Archives is a must-see for any history buff visiting Washington DC. The National Archives has a large parking lot located just off Constitution Avenue, which is open from 8am to 8pm. This lot offers easy access to the National Archives and is one of the best places to park when visiting the National Archives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to park near the Mall?
The best place to park near the Mall is one of the Smithsonian Institution’s parking garages, such as the Arts and Industries Building, the Castle, or the Hirshhorn Museum.
Is there parking near the Tidal Basin?
Yes, there are several metered parking lots located near the Tidal Basin, including the East Potomac Park pay lot and the Hains Point pay lot.
Where is the closest parking lot to the White House?
The closest parking lot to the White House is the White House Visitor Center pay lot, which is located on Pennsylvania Avenue.
Is there parking near the National Zoo?
Yes, the National Zoo has a large parking lot located just off Rock Creek Parkway, which is open from 8am to 8pm.
Where can I park near the U.S. Capitol?
The closest parking lot to the U.S. Capitol is the Capitol Visitor Center pay lot, which is located directly across from the Capitol.
Where is the best place to park near the National Archives?
The best place to park near the National Archives is the National Archives parking lot, which is located just off Constitution Avenue and is open from 8am to 8pm.
Are there any free parking lots in Washington DC?
No, there are no free parking lots in Washington DC. All of the parking lots in the city are either metered or require a fee.
What time do the parking lots near the Mall close?
All of the parking lots near the Mall close at 8pm.
Are there any overnight parking lots in Washington DC?
No, all of the parking lots in Washington DC are open from 8am to 8pm. There are no overnight parking lots in the city.
What is the best way to pay for parking in Washington DC?
The best way to pay for parking in Washington DC is with a credit card. Most of the parking lots in the city accept credit cards as payment.
How much does it cost to park in Washington DC?
The cost of parking in Washington DC varies from lot to lot. Metered parking lots typically charge a flat rate per hour, while pay lots typically charge a flat rate for the day.
Are there any parking restrictions in Washington DC?
Yes, there are several parking restrictions in Washington DC. Be sure to check the signs before you park to make sure you are not violating any local laws or regulations.