Constitution Gardens — Attraction in Washington

One of the interesting areas of The Mall is the Constitution Gardens located in between the Lincoln Memorial Reflection Pool and Constitution Ave. NW. This is a 50 acre nature area with a small pond and quite green space for those wanting to escape the crowds found around the many monuments and memorials along The Mall.

The pond is surrounded by a walking path and there is a small island on the north side where you can find the Memorial to the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence. The island is connected by a footbridge and is easy to find.

Unfortunately during my recent visit the pond was filled with algae and scum which wasn't very pleasant to see. Not sure how the NPS can help clear its waters but, at least at the present time, the pond didn't look very nice.

Otherwise, a walk around the Constitution Gardens pond is rather good and something potentially worth doing if you plan to spend significant time at The Mall visiting the many attractions here.

Note: There is a food kiosk setup at the west end of the pond, just a few minutes from the Vietnam Memorial and there are park benches in the area, potentially making this a decent spot to rest your feed and to have a quick drink or...

Constitution Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city! This park is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy nature amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life. The lush greenery, picturesque pathways, and serene pond create a tranquil atmosphere that’s ideal for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.

One of the highlights of my visit was the convenience of nearby bike rentals. Exploring the gardens and the surrounding areas on a bike added an extra layer of fun to the experience. The paths are well-maintained, making it easy to navigate and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

The park is also rich in history, with monuments and memorials that provide a deeper connection to the nation’s heritage. It’s a great place for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape for a bit and soak in the beauty of nature.

Overall, Constitution Gardens is a fantastic destination that combines natural beauty with recreational opportunities. I highly recommend visiting, especially if you have the chance to rent a bike and...

Let me start by saying I'm posting a review solely for those looking for insights about portrait photography at this location! Our photography team (LVERphoto.com) loves photographing couples here. It is an often-overlooked spot for photos because there are so many exciting, iconic spots right nearby but we find that this is a perfect secondary option for couples wanting the classic DC monuments photos! There is rarely anyone else around, and if there are people, its just a few. The pond is lovely and there are pretty trees all around!

If you're a photographer or couple interested in a photoshoot here, you do need to apply for and obtain a photography permit from the NPS. You should apply at least 2 weeks in advance, because their processing time is a minimum of 2 weeks. It is $140, but a photographer can use that permit for a full day (so if you have multiple shoots scheduled in a day, this will cover all of them!).

Overall, would highly recommend...