Washington Monument — Attraction in Baltimore

Standing on the cobblestones of Mount Vernon Place, one's gaze is inevitably drawn skyward to the slender marble column rising 178 feet above Baltimore. The Washington Monument here isn't the better-known obelisk on the National Mall, but rather America's first major monument to its inaugural president—a structure that has witnessed over two centuries of American history from its perch in what was once merely "Howard's Woods."

In 1815, when the cornerstone was laid amid a celebration drawing 30,000 spectators, Baltimore was flush with patriotic fervor following the War of 1812. The monument represented not merely commemoration but a nascent nation's declaration that it too could create landmarks rivaling European splendor.

Architect Robert Mills, America's first native-born professional architect, initially envisioned something far more elaborate: a massive Doric column adorned with decorative bands, multiple iron balconies, and a statue of Washington in a Roman quadriga. Financial reality intervened. The simplified design that emerged—a square base, unadorned column, and 14-foot statue—nonetheless transformed American public architecture.

The Freemasons feature prominently in the monument's story. Washington himself was a devoted Mason, and Maryland's Grand Master presided over the cornerstone ceremony, applying oil, wine, and corn as symbols of prosperity. The cornerstone's strategic placement at the northeast corner follows Masonic tradition as the spot where daylight first touches the earth.

During a $5.5 million restoration in 2014, workers unearthed two time capsules—the original from 1815 and another from the 1915 centennial—containing newspapers, coins, and a copy of the Declaration of Independence. These discoveries connected modern Baltimoreans with their predecessors who carefully preserved their moment in time.

Italian sculptor Enrico Causici created the crowning statue depicting Washington at the moment he resigned his military commission to Congress—a deliberate choice symbolizing commitment to civilian rule. Legend claims that when the statue was raised in 1829, "a shooting star dashed across the sky and an eagle lit on the head of the settling general," as if nature itself approved.

Curiously, those who make the 227-step climb for a panoramic view of the city can examine the statue closely, revealing what one Baltimore writer described as a "wide, googly-eyed stare" more reminiscent of character actor Jack Elam than the dignified founding father. From certain angles at street level, filmmaker John Waters noted the extended arm creates what he called "the oldest dirty joke in Baltimore" due to its suggestive appearance.

The monument profoundly shaped Baltimore's development. What began as a column in the woods became the centerpiece of one of America's most elegant urban spaces, with four parks arranged in a cruciform pattern. The distinguished neighborhood attracted cultural institutions and architectural gems, leading President John Quincy Adams to dub Baltimore "The Monumental City" during his 1827 visit.

For decades, this column—not its D.C. counterpart, which wasn't completed until 1885—served as America's primary symbol of gratitude toward Washington. Mid-19th century maps often paired Baltimore's monument with the Capitol building, underscoring its national significance.

Today's monument balances historical reverence with modern function. Digital exhibits fill the gallery level while the annual December "Monument Lighting" transforms the squares into a holiday village, culminating in illumination and fireworks.

Unlike many ancient monuments that stand as relics of faded civilizations, Baltimore's Washington Monument continues actively participating in civic life—an enduring testament to how a single ambitious structure can shape not just a city's skyline but its...

Great experience! Super friendly staff! Wouldn’t recommend it to anyone with claustrophobia or who can’t climb lots of stairs! They are on Groupon for discounted admission.

Museum on the base floor (gallery & exhibits) is free, only need to pay if you want to climb the stairs to the top observation section. There are 227 steps on the spiral staircase, no elevator. The path is fairly narrow, so only one group (I think it was up to 6 people) can go up at any given time. Normally people won’t spend too much time at the top as there are not that many things one can do on top other than enjoy the views and take some photos. When we visited, we only had to wait about 5-10 minutes before the previous group came down so we could go up.

Climbing to the top is similar to climbing at any lighthouse, but this is very narrow! And I remembered there was only one window (locked) we passed by along the way. During other sections, we really felt like we were in a confined space, and if something happened, we would be trapped there. So this is totally not an experience I would recommend to someone if you have claustrophobia, or are not able to climb over 200 steps.

The view at the top was great! You are close to a 15th floor height. There are 4 doors (all locked) that you can see all four directions. Three have a glass panel, one is just with steel bars so fresh air can come in. There is an outdoor section, but doors are locked and the outdoors was not open to visitors. You can see the Baltimore skyline from the inner city side.

All in all, it’s a fun, unique, short experience and I would recommend it to anyone (with no claustrophobia and able to climb...

One of my favorite landmarks in Mount Vernon, and also in Baltimore in general. Fascinating history, the uniqueness of the statue at the top, the various other elements surrounding the plaza - honestly, I'm still shocked we have had so much trouble picking a nickname for our city when James Madison said it best. 'Baltimore, the Monumental City'. It's got a nice ring to it, and sure sounds more plausible than 'The City That Reads', or 'The Greatest City' or even 'Charm City'. Maybe 'Birdland' is as accurate, but I digress. I have been here for the lighting ceremony, and that was a heckin' good time, I'll tell you what. I also have climbed the tower, which I strongly recommend if you are curious what your heartbeat sounds like to the other people with you on the climb. Doesn't sound to hard, but when you are roughly 450,000 stairs up it sure doesn't feel like the 210 or so originally promised. Or maybe my cardio is flagging somewhat. Either way, if you want to see black spots in your vision as you look over some amazing views of downtown Baltimore, this climb is for you! This was quite a fun place to visit, and I will be back here again! At the base, where the...