Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial - map and other informations

Description

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history and civil rights. Located in West Potomac Park in Washington, D.C., the memorial honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent leader in the African American civil rights movement.

Establishment

The idea for the memorial was first proposed in 1984, and after years of planning and fundraising, it was officially dedicated on August 28, 2011, the 48th anniversary of Dr. King's famous "I Have a Dream" speech. The memorial was designed by Chinese artist Lei Yixin and features a 30-foot-tall statue of Dr. King, carved out of white granite. The statue stands on a granite pedestal, which is surrounded by a circular wall inscribed with some of Dr. King's most inspiring quotes.

What to Do and See

When you visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial, there are several things you can do and see to fully experience its significance. Here are some highlights:

Reflect at the Statue

Take a moment to stand in awe of the impressive statue of Dr. King. The statue depicts him with his arms crossed, looking out towards the Tidal Basin. It is a powerful representation of his determination and vision for a better future.

Read the Inscriptions

Walk around the circular wall surrounding the statue and read the inscriptions of Dr. King's most memorable quotes. These quotes serve as a reminder of his powerful words and the impact he had on the civil rights movement.

Visit the Visitor Center

Stop by the visitor center, located near the memorial, to learn more about Dr. King's life and the history of the civil rights movement. The center features exhibits, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations that provide a deeper understanding of Dr. King's work and the challenges he faced.

Attend Special Events

The memorial hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and commemorative ceremonies. Check the official website or local listings to see if any events coincide with your visit. Attending one of these events can enhance your experience and provide additional insights into Dr. King's legacy.

Practical Information

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and admission is free. The memorial is easily accessible by public transportation, and there are parking facilities nearby for those traveling by car. It is recommended to allocate at least an hour to fully explore the memorial and take in its significance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial

Is the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the memorial is wheelchair accessible. There are ramps and elevators available to ensure that visitors with mobility challenges can fully enjoy the memorial.

Are pets allowed at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial?

No, pets are not allowed at the memorial, with the exception of service animals.

Are there guided tours available at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial?

While there are no official guided tours, there are park rangers and volunteers on-site who can provide information and answer any questions you may have.

Average weather in Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial

Temp max Temp min Rain Snow
Jan 6 °C -3 °C 55 mm 14 mm
Feb 8 °C -1 °C 69 mm 11 mm
Mar 13 °C 2 °C 68 mm 12 mm
Apr 19 °C 8 °C 89 mm 0 mm
May 24 °C 14 °C 100 mm 0 mm
Jun 28 °C 19 °C 116 mm 0 mm
Jul 31 °C 22 °C 132 mm 0 mm
Aug 29 °C 21 °C 102 mm 0 mm
Sep 26 °C 17 °C 90 mm 0 mm
Oct 20 °C 11 °C 99 mm 0 mm
Nov 13 °C 4 °C 63 mm 1 mm
Dec 9 °C 1 °C 88 mm 4 mm

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