The D.C. World War I Memorial is a meaningful stop in the nation’s capital, located in Pershing Park just steps from the White House.
Washington, D.C.
10-20 Minutes
Spring, Fall
Free
Overview
This national memorial honors the sacrifice of American troops who served in World War I, also known as the Great War, and fits seamlessly into a day exploring Washington, D.C. and the National Mall. Its thoughtful design, granite walls, sculptural elements, and peaceful fountain create space for reflection on the nation’s sacrifice and the cost of war for future generations.
Tucked into Pershing Park near Pennsylvania Avenue NW and 15th Street, the D.C. World War I Memorial serves as the new National World War I Memorial for the United States. Managed by the National Park Service, this memorial honors the young dead soldiers who served in the American Expeditionary Forces and tells their story through art, landscape, and powerful words.
At the conceptual center of the memorial is A Soldier’s Journey, a sweeping bronze sculpture wall by Sabin Howard, paired with poetic text by Archibald MacLeish. Together, they depict a soldier’s journey from civilian life through war and remembrance, reflecting the shared experience of communities across the world of communities affected by the Great War. The memorial was developed with guidance from the WWI Centennial Commission and replaces the former American Expeditionary Forces Memorial while preserving the legacy of General John J. Pershing, whose statue remains part of the park.
Though smaller than nearby landmarks like the Washington Monument or World War II Memorial, this memorial park delivers a deeply personal experience that complements other sites such as the District of Columbia War Memorial and the D.C. War Memorial along Independence Avenue.
Close up of the symbols on the side of the memorial
The memorial is a columned dome
D.C. World War I Memorial Plan
When planning our Washington, D.C. itinerary, we wanted to experience as many memorial parks as possible without feeling rushed. The World War I Memorial fits perfectly into a walking route between the White House, Freedom Plaza, and the National Mall. Its location near Pennsylvania Avenue NW allows you to move easily between major landmarks while still taking time to reflect on the sacrifice of American troops during World War I.
Getting There
Location
Washington, D.C., sits along the Potomac River on the East Coast of the United States and is known for its walkable layout, especially around the National Mall. The D.C. World War I Memorial is centrally located in Pershing Park, near 14th and 15th Streets NW, making it easy to reach on foot from the White House, Washington Monument, and other nearby memorials.
Best Time to Go
Spring and fall are ideal seasons to visit Washington, D.C., with comfortable temperatures and lighter crowds. Early mornings and evenings are especially peaceful at the World War I Memorial, when the peace fountain, sculptural wall, and granite walls can be appreciated without distractions. A park ranger is sometimes present to answer questions or provide historical context.
The round ceiling inside the DC War Memorial
There’s a small raised area in the memorial that is sometimes used for events
D.C. World War I Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Who Can Go?
This memorial is accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities. Paved paths and open spaces make it wheelchair-friendly, and its educational content appeals to families with older kids, veterans, history lovers, and travelers interested in national memorials throughout Washington, D.C.
What You'll See
Visitors will see the dramatic sculpture wall depicting a soldier’s journey, engraved inscriptions, granite walls, and the redesigned Pershing Park landscape. The memorial connects personal sacrifice to national history, placing World War I in context alongside George Washington, World War II, and later conflicts represented throughout the city.
Ryan was very interested in the engravins and inscriptions on the memorial
Ryan standing on the steps of the memorial
What to Bring & Wear
Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you’re exploring multiple sites around the National Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue. Bring water, sunscreen during warmer months, and a camera—the memorial’s sculptural details and peaceful setting photograph beautifully without heavy crowds.
Where to Go
The D.C. World War I Memorial is located in Pershing Park, just off Pennsylvania Avenue NW between 14th and 15th Streets. It’s a short walk from the White House and close to Independence Avenue, the District of Columbia War Memorial, and other major sites. Nearby Metro stations include Federal Triangle and McPherson Square, both about a 10-minute walk away. Several Metrobus routes stop along Pennsylvania Avenue. For additional details, the National Park Service provides updated information, including a phone number, on-site signage, and ranger programs.
How Long Does it Take?
Most visitors spend about 10-20 minutes exploring the memorial, making it an easy addition to a full day of sightseeing or a meaningful pause between larger monuments.
Stephanie standing on the steps of the memorial
Ryan reading the inscription
Cost
There is no cost to visit the D.C. World War I Memorial. Like most national memorials in Washington, D.C., it is free and open to the public.
Tips for D.C. World War I Memorial in Washington, D.C.
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience in Pershing Park
- Take time to read the inscriptions and follow the story told along the sculpture wall
- Combine your visit with nearby sites like the White House, the Washington Monument, or the World War II Memorial
- Benches and shaded areas make this a great rest stop during long walking days
- Check National Park Service updates for ranger talks or special events