The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is a monument dedicated to the life and service of US President Thomas Jefferson.
A visit to the Jefferson Memorial should be in everyone’s Washington DC to-do list. This classically-inspired building, built in the style beloved by Jefferson, stands out among all the other pristine while buildings in Washington DC. The domed building is an apt home for a statue in memorial of the man who wrote our Declaration of Independence. Though the statue is not the one originally placed in the building, but a younger bronze one, it is no less impressive. Handsomely carved, it contains several interesting aspects that relate the life of Jefferson (I won’t give it away, just in case you wish to do the Junior Ranger Badge with your child.) Downstairs, there are interesting educational exhibits and gift shops. In spring, when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, the Jefferson Memorial is awash in soft color and amazing light, the perfect opportunity to take a post-card shot. Don’t forget: As with all National Parks, there is a Junior Ranger Badge to be earned at this location.
Thomas Jefferson was one of the critical leaders in the founding of the country, and the memorial built to him is stately and dignified. So I'm not sure why they put it so far away from the mall and the other memorials, but there it is. You can see it from the mall, but it's a pretty good hike to the far side of the Tidal Basin. The good thing about that is that it isn't nearly as crowded as, say, the Lincoln. The bad thing is that it's a bit neglected. Jefferson's statue was crusted with dirt and pollen when we were there this fall, and the inside of the dome is cracked and cobwebbed. Still, the statue inspires respect, and there are tablets on the walls with stirring passages from his writings. He's a historical figure your kids should know about, so don't overlook him there in the corner. You can drive right up to it if you don't care to walk that far, and there are restrooms and a water fountain. No souvenir stands or food carts, but I think that's a good thing.