Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is dedicated to the 32nd President of the United States. The memorial is situated along the Tidal Basin, between the Jefferson Memorial and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.

The memorial is divided into four outdoor rooms, each representing one of Roosevelt's terms in office. The rooms feature a variety of sculptures and inscriptions related to Roosevelt's life and presidency and are separated by waterfalls and pools. The memorial covers a total of seven and a half acres and is accessible 24 hours a day.

One of the most iconic features of the memorial is the bronze statue of Roosevelt, seated in a wheelchair and surrounded by a wall of cascading water. The statue is a powerful reminder of Roosevelt's struggle with polio, which he contracted in 1921 and which left him paralyzed from the waist down.

The memorial also features a number of quotes from Roosevelt's speeches and writings, as well as sculptures depicting key moments from his presidency. One particularly striking sculpture features three figures, representing Americans suffering during the Great Depression, listening to Roosevelt's first inaugural address on a radio.

Visitors to the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial can take a self-guided tour using a brochure available at the entrance. There are also park rangers on site who can answer questions and provide additional information about the memorial.

Things to do at Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

Explore the Four Rooms: The memorial is divided into four outdoor rooms, each representing one of Roosevelt's terms in office. Take your time to explore each room and its unique features, including waterfalls, sculptures, and inscriptions.

See the Bronze Statue of FDR: The bronze statue of FDR seated in a wheelchair surrounded by a wall of cascading water is one of the most iconic features of the memorial.

Read the Inscriptions: The memorial features a number of quotes from Roosevelt's speeches and writings, as well as inscriptions about key events and moments from his presidency.

Visit at Night: The memorial is open 24 hours a day, and visiting at night can provide a different perspective on the memorial. The lighting is designed to enhance the features and make the memorial even more beautiful.

Take a Guided Tour: Park rangers offer free guided tours of the memorial that provide insight into the memorial's design, history, and significance.

Attend Special Events: The memorial hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and commemorative ceremonies.

Explore the Tidal Basin: The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is situated along the Tidal Basin, which is surrounded by other memorials and landmarks, including the Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Cherry Blossom Trees.