Discover Constitution Gardens on the National Mall
Flanked by landmarks like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Reflecting Pool, on Washington D.C.’s iconic National Mall, the Constitution Gardens are an integral part of the area’s green makeup. But this 50-acre plot isn’t just another park, or another stop on the Mall, it's a tribute to the broader history of the United States.
In keeping with their name, the Constitution Gardens were officially proclaimed a "living legacy tribute" to the U.S. Constitution by President Ronald Reagan, in 1986. Today, one of the garden’s most defining features is the Memorial to the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence.
The History of Constitution Gardens
Believe it or not, the land we now call Constitution Gardens was once submerged beneath the Potomac River. At the turn of the 20th century, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began a dredging project that created what became Potomac Park. Initially, this new land was not as pretty as planned.
During World War I, "temporary" office buildings—affectionately known as "Tempos"—were constructed on the site to house the U.S. Navy and the Munitions Department. While they served their purpose, these buildings overstayed their welcome, lingering until President Richard Nixon decided enough was enough. In 1971, he ordered their removal, paving the way for something far more inspiring.
President Nixon had plans for a park that would honor the nation’s history. His vision became a reality in 1976 when Constitution Gardens was officially dedicated as a living legacy to the American Revolution during its Bicentennial celebrations.
Renovations on the Constitution Gardens
Constitution Gardens was designed by the architecture firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill (SOM), alongside landscape architect Dan Kiley, the gardens were intended to contrast with the formal grandeur of the National Mall. The result? Your typical park, with sloping pathways, meadows complete with trees, wildflowers, and shrubbery, and a small lake.
Over the years, Constitution Gardens has seen its fair share of wear and tear. Recognizing its importance as a historical and ecological site, a 2011–12 national design competition led to plans for revitalization.
The winning team, PWP Landscape Architecture and Rogers Partners Architects, is spearheading a three-phase redesign to restore the gardens to their former glory while introducing sustainable, eco-friendly features.
The project includes transforming the concrete-lined lake into a thriving habitat for local wildlife, adding 2.5 acres of meadows and woodlands, and integrating modern ecological principles.
As of 2024, the renovation efforts are well underway, promising an even more vibrant and biodiverse space for visitors to enjoy in the near future.
Constitution Gardens: Memorial to the 56 Signers
At the heart of the Gardens lies Signers Island. This island is accessible via a wooden pedestrian footbridge and holds the Memorial to the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence.
Unveiled in July 1982, this semi-circular granite monument features 56 stone blocks. Each block is engraved with the gold signatures of the Founding Fathers and is grouped by the original thirteen states.
Not all Roses and Birdwatching: A Tractor, a Pond, and a Standoff
In March 2003, Constitution Gardens made headlines for an unusual reason. A disgruntled tobacco farmer drove his tractor into the pond, claiming to have explosives and holding federal authorities at bay for two days.
Thankfully, the situation ended without harm to the monuments or visitors, though it did leave a peculiar footnote in the park’s history.
Visiting the Constitution Gardens
Constitution Gardens is open 24/7, offering free entry year-round. It’s located between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, making it an easy addition to any D.C. sightseeing itinerary. The best entrance is at 19th Street and Constitution Avenue, which brings you directly to the pond.
Getting There
- By Metro: The Smithsonian or Farragut West stations are your best bets.
- By Car: Street parking on Constitution Avenue is limited and competitive. If you’re not up for a parallel-parking showdown, the Metro is your friend.
What’s the Weather Like?
- Spring (March–May): Mild and gorgeous, especially if you’re here for cherry blossom season. Average highs hover around 65°F—ideal strolling weather.
- Summer (June–August): Expect heat and humidity. Pack water and sunscreen, and don’t forget a hat and a water bottle!
- Fall (September–November): Crisp air and golden fall foliage make this a standout season to visit.
- Winter (December–February): Chilly but peaceful, and if you’re lucky, you might find the gardens dusted with snow.
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes for exploring the paths.
- Snacks, or a full-on picnic (only you know how hungry you get!).
- Binoculars, especially if you’re into birdwatching.
Things to See and Do
- Signers Island: This tiny island is a big deal. It’s accessible via a footbridge—perfect for a quick history lesson in the great outdoors.
- The Lockkeeper’s House: The Lockkeeper’s House is the oldest building on the National Mall, dating back to the 1830s. It’s located right at the edge of the gardens, so don’t miss this little slice of history.
- Birdwatching: With nearly 190 bird species calling the area home, this is a good spot for some birdwatching. Bring your binoculars and see how many feathered friends you can spot.
Tips for a Stress-Free Visit
- Go Early or Late: Beat the crowds by visiting early in the morning or around sunset.
- Pack Light: There’s plenty of walking involved, so don’t weigh yourself down.
- Bring a Camera: Between the pond, the wildlife, and the memorials, there’s no shortage of photo ops.
Explore Beyond the Constitution Gardens with CityDays
While the Constitution Gardens will put you in touch with America’s history, why not come back to the present with a CityDays Washington scavenger hunt?
All you have to do is team up with your friends, family or whoever to solve riddles, complete challenges and answer trivia to lead you on an unforgettable journey around Washington's most intriguing streets.
The best part? We’ll recommend top-rated bars, cafés and restaurants and give your team the chance to earn rewards by competing on our leaderboard.
CityDays gives you total freedom to start and finish whenever you like, take extra breaks if you want or need them, and it’s suitable for people of all ages.
