National Mall and Memorial Parks facts for kids

Quick facts for kids National Mall and Memorial Parks
National Mall and Memorial Parks Location in the United States
Location	Washington, D.C., United States
Area	6,546.92 acres (26.4944 km2) 6,482.78 acres (26.23 km2) federal, (includes National Capital Parks-East)
Established	1965
Visitors	29,721,005 (in 2013)
Governing body	National Park Service

The National Mall and Memorial Parks is a special group of parks and memorials in Washington, D.C.. It's managed by the National Park Service (NPS), which is part of the United States government. These parks are some of the oldest protected areas in the United States, with some dating back to 1790!

In 1933, these important places were put under the care of the National Park Service. Before 1965, they were known as the National Capital Parks. Today, the National Mall and Memorial Parks unit helps look after many famous landmarks. These include monuments, statues, and green spaces where people can learn about American history and important figures.

Discovering the National Mall and Memorial Parks

This park unit covers a large area in Washington, D.C. It includes many famous places that honor important people and events in American history. Millions of people visit these sites every year to learn and remember.

What is the National Mall?

The National Mall is a large, open park area in the heart of Washington, D.C. It stretches from the United States Capitol building to the Lincoln Memorial. It's a place where many important national events, protests, and celebrations have happened. It's also a popular spot for picnics, walks, and enjoying the outdoors.

Famous Memorials and Monuments to Visit

The National Mall and Memorial Parks includes some of the most recognized landmarks in the United States. These sites help tell the story of America's past and its heroes.

Honoring Leaders and Events

Many memorials are dedicated to presidents and major historical events:

• The Lincoln Memorial honors Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. President.
• The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is dedicated to Thomas Jefferson, the third U.S. President and author of the Declaration of Independence.
• The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial remembers Franklin D. Roosevelt, who led the country during the Great Depression and World War II.
• The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial honors the civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr..
• The Washington Monument is a tall obelisk that celebrates George Washington, the first U.S. President.

Remembering Sacrifices

Several memorials honor those who served in wars:

• The Vietnam Veterans Memorial remembers soldiers who served in the Vietnam War.
• The Korean War Veterans Memorial honors those who fought in the Korean War.
• The National World War II Memorial pays tribute to Americans who served in World War II.
• The National World War I Memorial honors those who served in World War I.
• The American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial honors veterans who were permanently disabled during their service.

Other Important Sites

The park unit also includes other significant places:

• Ford's Theatre National Historic Site is where President Lincoln was assassinated. It includes the Petersen House, where he died.
• Constitution Gardens is a peaceful park area with a lake.
• The Belmont–Paul Women's Equality National Monument celebrates the women's suffrage and equality movements.
• The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial honors police officers who died in the line of duty.

Other Notable Parks and Statues

Beyond the most famous sites, the National Mall and Memorial Parks manages many other smaller parks, circles, and statues throughout Washington, D.C. These spots often honor specific individuals or groups, adding to the city's rich history.

Some of these include:

• African American Civil War Memorial
• Albert Einstein Memorial
• Columbus Circle and Columbus Fountain
• Dupont Circle
• East Potomac Park, including Hains Point
• Franklin Square
• Freedom Plaza
• George Mason Memorial
• John Ericsson National Memorial
• Logan Circle
• Mahatma Gandhi Memorial
• McPherson Square
• Memorial to Japanese-American Patriotism in World War II
• Old Post Office Tower
• Pershing Park
• Scott Circle
• Sheridan Circle
• Southwest Waterfront Park (Titanic Memorial)
• Taras Shevchenko Memorial
• Thomas Circle
• United States Navy Memorial
• Victims of Communism Memorial
• Washington Circle
• West Potomac Park

These many sites make the National Mall and Memorial Parks a living museum. It helps everyone learn about the history and values of the United States.