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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Landmarks

The Reflecting Pool

The largest reflecting pool in Washington, D.C., this iconic water feature creates a stunning mirror image of the Washington Monument and serves as a historic backdrop for monumental civic events.

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What is The Reflecting Pool known for?

The Reflecting Pool is the largest reflecting pool in Washington, D.C., and is known as an iconic backdrop for major historic events, such as the 1963 March on Washington and protests against the Vietnam War.

Where is The Reflecting Pool located?

It is located on the National Mall, positioned between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.

How big is The Reflecting Pool?

The pool is a concrete-bottomed rectangular pool measuring 2,030 by 167 feet.

When was The Reflecting Pool completed?

While it was not completed in time for the memorial's dedication in 1922, it was completed in 1923.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Reflecting Pool is the largest reflecting pool in Washington, D.C., serving as a concrete-bottomed rectangular expanse that measures 2,030 feet by 167 feet. Dedicated in 1922, though not fully completed until 1923, this architectural feature is centrally positioned on the National Mall. It creates a classic vista that links the Lincoln Memorial with the Washington Monument, allowing the likeness of the monument to shimmer on the water's surface. Beyond its visual appeal, the site is a significant emblem of the city's civic narrative. It has provided the iconic backdrop for some of the most pivotal moments in American history, most notably the 1963 March on Washington where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his 'I Have a Dream' speech. Additionally, the pool has been the focal point for major protests against the Vietnam War. The landscape is further defined by a long promenade of Elm Trees that line either side of the water. Despite its beauty, the pool's shallow, stagnant nature and lack of shade make it a prime habitat for algae. This environmental challenge led to a repainting project costing over $14.65 million and the recent application of nanobubble technology in June 2026 to eliminate algae blooms. Today, the pool remains one of the most filmed and recognized sites in the capital. Managed by the National Park Service, the site continues to undergo rehabilitation to maintain its role as a vast mirror for both the monumental and mundane moments of Washington life.

Visitor tips

  • Walk the full length of the promenade to see the transition from the Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument.
  • Visit during the golden hour for the best photographic reflections of the surrounding monuments.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the pool stretches over 2,000 feet in length.

Nearby context

The Reflecting Pool acts as the central axis of the National Mall's western end, physically and visually connecting the Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument.

Sources

Evidence and links