FDR Memorial

The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is one of the newest monuments in Washington, D.C., having been dedicated in 1997. It is an expansive tribute to the nations' 32nd president, that occupies over seven acres on the west side of the Tidal Basin.

The memorial is divided into four "rooms" outlined with granite walls, waterfalls, and statuary. Each of the rooms represents one of the four presidential terms that FDR held in office from 1933-1945.

The FDR Memorial is one of the favorite memorials for families with children to visit because it is a little more interactive, and the little ones can run around and use their "outdoor voices," unlike in many of the more somber monuments downtown. The favorite photo-op is to stand next to the 10-foot bronze statue of FDR and his beloved dog, Fala.

The monument is located on the Tidal Basin and is surrounded by Japanese cherry trees. In the spring, when the cherry blossoms are blooming, this is a popular place to sightsee and take a stroll, so parking is extremely scarce, but it is worth the effort to make it to D.C. during this time of year.