Get a map and make plans. Get a map of the monuments and museums in the Washington, D.C., area and start making a list of those you want to see. Once you have made a list, decide if you want to explore them on your own or take a guided tour. If you choose to explore Washington, D.C., on you own, mark your list on the map and mark out a route to explore. The Lincoln Memorial offers a beautiful view at sunset, so this might be a great place to start your evening of touring.
Take a guided tour. Some tour companies offer nighttime tours of the monuments and memorials in Washington, D.C. The DC the Lights Tour will take you to the Capitol Building, World War II Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, Lincoln Memorial and the White House. You can go on a Monuments by Moonlight Tour, which will take you on a two and one half hour trolley tour of the area's monuments and memorials.
Take a bike ride. Grab your bicycles and take a tour of the monuments in Washington, D.C., at night. When exploring on a bike, you will have the convenience of stopping when you want to look at something and faster transportation than walking. By taking a bike tour, you will also be able to avoid parking fees and issues with finding a parking spot. Organized bike tours are available through local tour companies.
Drive and walk to the monuments in the Mall. Park your car at one end of the Mall area and plan to walk around. Take your time and enjoy the night and the beauty of the monuments. When taking a walking tour, bring a small picnic with you and find a spot along the way to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. At night, there are less crowds and you should be able to find a quiet place to sit and relax.
Take the Metro. Another way to get to see all of the monuments at night is to take the Metro Orange Line (subway) and get off at the Smithsonian stop. From there you will be able to visit the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Memorial and the Vietnam Memorial. From the Smithsonian stop, to all of the monuments, and back again is just under three miles.
