Top Monuments in USA

Bring a good pair of walking shoes. The trails are gorgeous, but I totally regretted wearing flip flops! You'll want to explore beyond the monument.

If you can, visit early in the morning, around 7 AM. The morning light is beautiful for photos and there are fewer crowds – I totally loved the peace before it got busy!

Check the weather before you go. I got caught in a sudden rainstorm, and it wasn't fun! Dress in layers just in case – it can change quickly!

I think parking can get pricey, so my advice is to use the shuttle service offered by the park. It's affordable and saves you the hassle of finding a spot!

Wear comfy shoes! You’ll probably end up walking a lot more than you think, especially if you decide to explore the nearby National Mall afterward

Check out the reflection pool in front of the memorial. It's super photogenic, especially around sunset, so don’t miss it for great Instagram shots.

Consider visiting on a weekday rather than the weekend to dodge some of the bigger tourist crowds; it makes for a much smoother experience.

If you need to use the bathroom, head towards a cafe or a nearby mall! The public restrooms around the area are limited, and I was caught off guard.

I suggest visiting on a weekday if you can. The weekends are packed, and it’s tough to get close to the bull. Plus, you’ll have a better chance to take cool pics.

Check out the surrounding area too! Independence Hall is right next door, and there’s so much history. I suggest planning at least a couple of hours to explore this entire area

Make sure your camera is charged! The bell and the whole park are super photogenic. I regretted not having my camera ready for some incredible shots with the backdrop of Independence Hall.

Grab a quick breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before you go. You can even pack a little snack and enjoy it while you take in the views. It’ll save you time and give you more energy!

If you can, go on a weekday morning right when it opens at 9 AM. It gets pretty crowded later, and you'll get great photos without throngs of people. I really enjoyed the peace before the rush.

Bring a friend or two to help take photos! I went alone and had to ask randoms who weren't all that great at photography. A little squad makes all the difference!

Be sure to check out the inscriptions on the walls. Each quote is meaningful and adds depth to the experience. I spent a good chunk of time reading and reflecting, which was totally worth it!

My advice is to bring some snacks. There aren't many nearby places to grab a bite, and it's nice to chill on a bench with a view while enjoying a quick snack.

Be ready for some street performances! They can add a lot to your experience. Just keep an eye on your belongings since it can get a bit crowded.

I suggest heading to the nearby shops for souvenirs but avoid the ones right next to the park. They're overpriced! Walk a few blocks and you'll find much better deals.

I suggest wearing comfy shoes. The memorial is more expansive than you’d expect, and you’ll want to walk around and take it all in. Trust me, your feet will thank you!

Take a moment to appreciate the water features – they are very calming and perfect for a little break. I wish I’d spent more time just sitting there and enjoying the scenery rather than rushing.

I recommend getting there around 8 AM to beat the crowds. The view up top is great, and you get some quiet time to enjoy the monument without the hustle.

If you're planning to take photos, try to go during golden hour around sunset. The colors of the sky make for some truly stunning shots of the monument!