Standing watch over the United States Capitol, the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial is one of Washington, D.C.’s most powerful yet often overlooked historic sites.
Washington, D.C.
15-30 Minutes
Spring, Fall
Free
Overview
The General Ulysses S. Grant Memorial is one of the most striking monuments on the National Mall, yet many visitors pass it by on their way between the United States Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial. Located at the eastern terminus of the National Mall, right at the base of the west front of the Capitol Building, it serves as both a visual anchor and a powerful tribute to American history.
Dedicated in 1922, the memorial honors Ulysses S. Grant—the commanding general of the Union Army, Civil War commander of the Union armies, and later the 18th president of the United States. Designed by Henry Merwin Shrady, with architectural work by Edward Pearce Casey (son of William Pearce Casey), the memorial is widely considered the largest equestrian monument—and often cited as the largest equestrian statue—in the United States.
At the center, the figure of Grant sits atop a horse in quiet composure, reflecting Grant’s customary stillness even amid chaos. Surrounding him, dramatic bronze elements—including the Artillery Group and a life-size cavalry group—capture the turbulence of the charging cavalry and the intensity of Union artillery in motion. These cast bronze scenes, set on marble plinths and Vermont marble pedestals, create a sense of heightened realism and the force of monumental sculpture rarely matched anywhere on the Mall.
Ulysses S. Grant Memorial Plan
Because of its location in Union Square, the memorial fits seamlessly into any National Mall itinerary. Pairing Grant’s Memorial with nearby landmarks creates an efficient walking route through some of the most important historic places in the country.
You can easily connect this stop with the Capitol grounds, the Capitol Reflecting Pool, and continue west toward major sites like the Lincoln Memorial. It’s one of the best ways to experience a full arc of American history—from the Civil War to the present—without going out of your way.
Getting There
Location
The memorial sits prominently at the base of Capitol Hill, directly west of the United States Capitol, forming a dramatic foreground to one of the most iconic buildings in the country.
Nearest Metro Stations:
- Union Station (Red Line)
- Capitol South (Blue, Orange, Silver Lines)
Both are within a short and easy walk.
Best Time to Go
Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather, along with color and softer light across the National Mall. Early mornings and evenings are especially rewarding here, when crowds thin out and the monument’s scale feels even more dramatic.
Ulysses S. Grant Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Who Can Go?
This is an accessible and family-friendly stop. Wide walkways, open sightlines, and flat surfaces make it ideal for strollers, wheelchairs, and multigenerational travelers.
What You'll See
Expect one of the most detailed and emotionally powerful memorials in Washington, D.C.:
- The towering equestrian statue of Grant at the monument’s apex
- The dramatic Artillery Group, showcasing Union artillery in action
- A life-size cavalry group, approximately one-and-a-half times life size in scale and intensity
- Bronze lamp posts, marble pedestals, and subtle details of the original sculpture
- Flags of the army and dynamic compositions that form the corners of an imaginary pyramid
Every element—from the simplicity of the classically styled platform to the intricate bronze components—was designed to create an effective stage for storytelling through sculpture.
What to Bring & Wear
Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you’re exploring multiple historic sites nearby. Bring water in warmer months, sun protection (shade is limited), and a camera to capture the memorial’s scale and detail.
Where to Go
The memorial is impossible to miss, positioned in Union Square at the eastern edge of the National Mall. Look for it directly in front of the Capitol Reflecting Pool.
How Long Does it Take?
Plan for 15–30 minutes. It’s quick to pass through, but taking time to walk around the memorial’s pedestal and study the bronze elements makes for a much more meaningful visit.
Cost
Free. Like all National Mall memorials maintained by the National Park Service, it’s open to the public year-round.
Tips for Ulysses S. Grant Memorial in Washington, D.C.
- Walk the full perimeter to appreciate the scale and storytelling
- Look closely at the cavalry and artillery scenes for subtle details
- Pair with a Capitol visit for deeper historical context
- Visit early or late for the best light and fewer crowds
- Take time to reflect on the legacy of Ulysses S. Grant and its impact on future generations