Lafayette Square

Lafayette Square is a seven-acre park north of the White House featuring pathways and surrounded by nineteenth-century architecture. The grounds contain multiple statues of historical figures positioned throughout the green space and beneath the trees.

The square emerged in the 1820s when the site transformed from a construction area for the White House into a public park. The name honors French military leader Marquis de Lafayette for his role in American independence.

The square displays monuments to foreign military leaders who aided American independence, including an equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson from 1855. These memorials reflect how the nation honored its international allies.

The park can be entered from H Street, Pennsylvania Avenue, Madison Place, or Jackson Place, with benches scattered throughout the grounds. Visitors should expect foot traffic and occasional gatherings across the space during daylight hours.

Before becoming a park, the grounds served as a racetrack, graveyard, zoo, and slave market. During the War of 1812, it also functioned as a military encampment for the city's troops.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1821

Architects: Andrew Jackson Downing

Operator: National Park Service

Part of: Lafayette Square Historic District

GPS coordinates: 38.89950,-77.03660

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:22