A number of these monuments and memorials may not be as grand as the “must-see” monuments, but they are definitely worthy of a stop. In addition, many are located within steps of some of the larger and more famous memorials so they are quick and easy to “check off”…refer to the map below so you don’t miss them!
To learn more: DC Memorialist has fantastically interesting and incredibly well-researched info about a number of these memorials. Or, if you are more into snarky snippets (me), check out DC Design Tours Weird Memorials of Washington, a monthly blog post that “examines the Capital’s odd and little-known monuments, memorials, and landmarks.” Trip Hacks, Atlas Obscura, Curbed, Road Trippers and the Travel Channel also have some short and sweet knowledge bombs that will make you appreciate (and sometimes laugh about – I’m looking at you Jefferson Pier!) these lesser-known memorials too. Don’t write them off!
Underappreciated Monuments & Memorials
There are lots of “underappreciated” monuments and memorials listed below. The ones with the asterisks are my favorites 🙂 Click the links to learn more about each one.
- African American Civil War Memorial
- Air Force Memorial*** (in Arlington, VA)
- Albert Einstein Memorial
- American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial
- Andrew Jackson Statue
- Belmont–Paul Women’s Equality National Monument
- Black Lives Matter Plaza***
- DC War Memorial***
- Dwight D. Einsenhower
- Emancipation Memorial
- Garfield Monument
- General William Tecumseh Sherman Statue
- George Mason Memorial
- GW Masonic National Memorial
- Iwo Jima / US Marine Corps Memorial*** (ok, not technically DC, but very close)
- James Buchanan Memorial
- Jefferson Pier Marker
- John J. Pershing Memorial
- Lyndon Johnson Memorial Grove
- National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial*** (in VA, but this list felt incomplete without it)
- National Guard Memorial
- National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial
- National Native American Veterans Memorial
- Navy Memorial
- Signers Memorial
- Ulysses S. Grant Memorial
- Women’s Military Memorial (also not DC, but close!)
Here is a map in case it’s helpful!
Jelly Side Up 