Go to the Lincoln Memorial at night, an hour or so after sunset. It's completely safe and you will never forget the views of the Capitol, the Washington Memorial (the thing that sticks straight up in the middle distance) and the Reflecting Pool. Then turn around and, QUIETLY, enter the top level of the memorial where Mr. Lincoln sits. To your left is, perhaps, the greatest speech in American history, the Gettysburg Address. To your right is Lincoln's Second Inaugural speech, a less loquacious speech that could have been better edited, but which still resounds with meaning to this day.

Every time we take friends, relatives or visitors to the memorial I read the Gettysburg Address aloud for them. Read it slowly -- if you don't know it by heart as I do -- and savor the power and rhythm of his words. And think of our country, what is has become and what it still can be,

Before you go up the wide, wide stairs to see Mr. Lincoln, go left past the stairs and you'll see a door. Go on in and enjoy the little museum about the Mall and the evolution of the president's thinking on freedom, slavery and the future of our country. If you're not familiar with Washington, it's worthwhile sticking around to watch the short video about the Mall, though it's a bit dated.

As a lad who was born in Washington and grew up in the Land of Lincoln, let me ask you to hush your children and to peak in low voices when you approach Mr. Lincoln. He remains perhaps the greatest American and is surely worthy of that respect.

God bless America!

This monument is beautifully done and is extraordinary to see up close. I recommend going in the off season- Spring Break is a terrible time for DC, on account of all the schools that go there and take up the place.

The Lincoln Memorial was the highlight of my short visit to Washington, DC. We walked the length of the Reflecting Pool to the memorial, something I found to be a peaceful preamble to the monument.

There are 57 steps to the chamber; I was just beginning to feel the burn when I reached the top. Note: There is an elevator in the lobby of the building for those unable to maneuver the steps. You're going to want your camera (or cell phone) to capture the amazing view of the Reflecting Pool from the chamber.

Admission is free. It is a self-guided memorial.

If you are only going to see one exhibit in Washington, DC, I wouldn't recommend this one, as there are more significant aspects to the capital. However, I would definitely put the Lincoln Memorial on your agenda.

Take some time and read the inscriptions on the walls. The view both inside and out are gorgeous. Often very busy with your groups.