Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

MLK Jr. Memorial – A Tribute to a Civil Rights Icon

Discover the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Carved in memory of the towering Civil Rights Leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the MLK Jr. Memorial is a poignant tribute located on four serene acres of land near the northwest corner of the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C. This moving memorial stands not far from the Korean War Memorial, making it a significant part of the city’s historical tapestry.

The address of the memorial, 1964 Independence Avenue, was purposefully chosen to honor the famous 1964 Civil Rights Act, a pivotal piece of legislation that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. played a central role in bringing about.

A Monument of Hope and Inspiration

At the heart of the memorial stands a magnificent statue of Dr. King himself, carved out of a towering 30-foot piece of granite known as the “Stone of Hope.” This statue is a focal point that immediately captures the eye as you pass through the gateway of two crescent-shaped pieces of granite, artfully carved to resemble a mountain. These elements beautifully echo a powerful quote from Dr. King’s historic “I Have a Dream Speech”: “Out of a mountain of despair, a stone of hope.” This quote is etched into the “Mountain of Despair,” serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring human spirit.

Throughout the memorial, you’ll encounter fourteen other profound quotes from Dr. King’s speeches and sermons, each etched into the walls of the monument. It’s a place of reflection, education, and inspiration, inviting visitors to contemplate the ideals of equality and justice that Dr. King championed throughout his life.

A Unique Tribute in DC

Notably, the MLK Jr. Memorial is only the fourth statue on the National Mall that pays tribute to a historic figure who did not serve as President of the United States. It’s a testament to the lasting impact of Dr. King’s work and his enduring legacy.

As you explore this significant landmark, you’ll also find a gift shop and a visitor’s center located at the entrance to the Memorial. These resources offer an opportunity to delve deeper into Dr. King’s life and the broader Civil Rights Movement, ensuring that his message of hope, justice, and equality continues to resonate with each new generation.

Experience with USA Guided Tours

A crucial part of US history, a visit to the MLK Jr. Memorial is part of several of our DC guided tour offerings. Our expert tour guides will take you through the Capitol and share the stories behind MLK Jr.’s legacy and construction of the monument as part of the tour experience, ensuring that this crucial piece of history is properly told for generations to come.

Visit the MLK Jr. Memorial with a bus tour from USA Guided Tours:

• DC Highlights Bus Tour
• African American History and Culture Bus Tour
• Best of DC – VIP Bus Tour