Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is a rectangular water basin at the National Mall that stretches 2,030 feet (618 meters) between two monuments and displays their reflections on its surface. Elm trees line both long sides and create a green frame around the shallow basin, while paved paths run along the edges.

The basin was built between 1922 and 1923 as part of the National Mall design according to architect Henry Bacon's plans. The site became the backdrop for Martin Luther King's speech in 1963, when hundreds of thousands of people gathered on the surrounding grounds.

The rectangular water surface continues the visual axis between the Capitol and Lincoln Memorial, following the architectural plan of the city. During larger events, people gather along its edges and use the open grounds as a frame for public demonstrations or celebrations.

The paved paths along both sides allow direct access to the water and offer several spots for photographing the monuments. The elm trees along the edges provide shade during warmer months, when the grounds see the most visitors.

The basin holds around 6,750,000 gallons (25.5 million liters) of water and features different depths, ranging from 18 inches (46 centimeters) near the edges to 30 inches (76 centimeters) in the center. This graduated depth prevents wind from rippling the surface too much and disturbing the reflections.

Location: Washington, D.C.

GPS coordinates: 38.88930,-77.04500

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:27