Constitution Gardens

A Green Haven on the National Mall

Tucked between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, Constitution Gardens is a 50-acre slice of tranquility that feels worlds away from DC's hustle. Created in 1976 as part of America's bicentennial celebrations, this peaceful park transformed what was once underwater Potomac River territory into a quiet retreat on the National Mall.

Lincoln Memorial viewed across fountains of the World War II Memorial

Photo: Larry Syverson (CC BY-SA 2.0)

The Lake and Its Historic Island

At the heart of the gardens sits a 6.75-acre lake with gently curving shores that make for a pleasant stroll. Follow the wooden footbridge to the small island that houses the Memorial to the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence - a thoughtful arrangement of 56 granite blocks in a semicircle, each engraved with a founder's signature, name, occupation, and hometown. The island's willow trees provide shade where you can rest and reflect on this pivotal moment in American history.

Signers' Memorial with red fingerprint sculpture The Soil You See in the background

Photo: Ron Cogswell (CC BY 2.0)

Natural Beauty All Around

Unlike the more formal layout of much of the National Mall, Constitution Gardens has a natural aesthetic with rolling terrain and winding paths that meander through tree groves. While the original 2,000 trees planted here have seen some turnover due to challenging soil conditions, today's mix of native deciduous and flowering species creates a lovely canopy throughout the seasons.

Fall brings a spectacular show of colors as the leaves change, while spring offers the gift of cherry blossoms near the pond - a quieter alternative to the Tidal Basin's famous but crowded display.

Colorful playground equipment provides recreation space in the park

Photo: Ron Cogswell (CC BY 2.0)

Wildlife Watching

The lake isn't just pretty to look at - it's teeming with life. You might spot ducks building nests along the shoreline, fish darting beneath the surface, or frogs making themselves known on warmer days. If you're lucky, you could catch sight of a majestic blue heron or a loon gliding across the water. And of course, the gardens' squirrel population puts on a perpetual show, particularly in autumn when they're busy preparing for winter.

Lincoln Memorial at sunset

Photo: John Brighenti (CC BY 2.0)

A Peaceful Retreat

Constitution Gardens offers a quiet space amid the bustle of the National Mall. When you need a break from museum-hopping, you can find a bench here to rest and recharge.

The paths here welcome walkers, joggers, and cyclists alike. Photographers might appreciate the views - particularly when the Washington Monument reflects in the pond waters. The park is often used for wedding photos (though commercial photography requires a National Park Service permit).

World War II Memorial with its pillars representing states

Photo: Larry Syverson (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Winter Wonder

When temperatures drop and the pond freezes over, Constitution Gardens offers a truly unique DC experience - it's the only place in the city where ice skating is legally permitted on natural ice. The pond's shallow 2-3 foot depth makes it an enticing spot for winter adventurers willing to test the ice.

Washington Monument with Signers' Island seen on the left

Photo: Ron Cogswell (CC BY 2.0)

Touches of History

Don't miss the historic Lockkeeper's House in the northeast corner of the gardens. This 1830s structure is from when the Washington City Canal connected to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. While not always open for interior visits, it adds a layer of historical interest to your garden wanderings.

The District of Columbia War Memorial's classical dome among trees

Photo: Jonathan Cutrer (CC BY 2.0)

Beyond Everyday Enjoyment

Though primarily a place for quiet contemplation, Constitution Gardens occasionally transforms into an event space. The park regularly hosts naturalization ceremonies where immigrants become new American citizens - a fitting location given its proximity to so many national symbols.

The wide, grassy areas make this an ideal picnic spot, particularly on the island where trees provide generous shade. It's typically less crowded than other areas of the Mall.

The art installation For the Living shows refugee routes on the lawn

Photo: Ron Cogswell (CC BY 2.0)

Good to Know

When nature calls, you'll come across restrooms nearby between the gardens and the Vietnam Memorial, with additional facilities behind the Washington Monument visitor's center and near 15th and Independence Avenue.

Constitution Gardens is accessible 24/7. Evening visits can be pleasant when there are fewer people and the monuments are illuminated.