Lafayette Square
A historic National Historic Landmark park north of the White House, featuring grand statues and iconic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Lafayette Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic National Historic Landmark park north of the White House, featuring grand statues and iconic views.
"The White House!!! Amazing!!! Lafayette Square and the WH are spectacular to see in person."
📸 Perfect White House Pics
Arrive early or late for fewer crowds and better photo ops of the White House.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the 7-acre park and its statues with ease. Essential for a pleasant visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Andrew Jackson Statue
Center of Lafayette Square
Majestic equestrian statue honoring a pivotal American figure. A must-see landmark.

White House Views
North side of Lafayette Square
Iconic vantage point for capturing memorable photos of the President's residence.
Historic Statues
Throughout Lafayette Square
Admire a collection of impressive statues commemorating key figures in American history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Lafayette Square
Navigating Lafayette Square
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect White House Pics
Arrive early or late for fewer crowds and better photo ops of the White House.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the 7-acre park and its statues with ease. Essential for a pleasant visit.
📍 Respect Security Zones
Be aware of restricted areas near the White House and follow all official guidance.
🏛️ Admire the Statues
Take time to appreciate the historical significance and artistry of each monument.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect White House Pics
Arrive early or late for fewer crowds and better photo ops of the White House.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the 7-acre park and its statues with ease. Essential for a pleasant visit.
📍 Respect Security Zones
Be aware of restricted areas near the White House and follow all official guidance.
🏛️ Admire the Statues
Take time to appreciate the historical significance and artistry of each monument.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lafayette Square for its beautiful statues and its iconic views of the White House, calling it a 'spectacular' and 'inspiring' place for proud Americans. The park's manageable size and historical significance are frequently highlighted as major draws, offering a peaceful yet historically rich experience.
"The White House!!! Amazing!!! Lafayette Square and the WH are spectacular to see in person, to think the President of this great nation lives and works here and I was there is just very fulfilling and inspiring as a proud American🇺🇸❤️Visiting here is a dream and I highly recommend a visit. Washington DC is the cleanest large city I have visited with an amazing air conditioned subway system which is clean and easy to navigate."
Tasteful Travels
"A lovely square just outside the White House that has several stately and beautiful statues that celebrate great achievement and figures in American history such as Andrew Jackson. The square is 7 acres so really perfectly-sized."
Zane Trefield
"It is magnificent building, architecture. Park, bike routes, obelisk ❤️ and to me the white house the the American flag ❤️"
Paul S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lafayette Square is easily accessible via Washington D.C.'s Metro system. The closest stations are Farragut West and Farragut North (Orange, Silver, and Red lines), both a short walk away. Many visitors also arrive by bus or taxi. Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging, so public transport is often recommended.
Yes, Lafayette Square is directly north of the White House, making it a prime location to visit alongside other D.C. landmarks like the National Mall, the Treasury Building, and the Renwick Gallery.
Biking is a popular way to explore D.C., and Lafayette Square is accessible by bike lanes. There are also Capital Bikeshare stations nearby for convenient rentals.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lafayette Square is a public park and is free to enter. There are no admission fees required to walk through the park and admire the statues and views.
Lafayette Square is generally open to the public from dawn until dusk. However, hours can vary due to special events or security considerations, so it's always a good idea to check for any advisories before your visit.
Yes, Lafayette Square is designed to be accessible. Paved pathways allow for easy navigation for wheelchairs and strollers, and most areas are easily reachable.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Lafayette Square is primarily known for its beautiful green space, impressive statues of historical figures like Andrew Jackson, and its iconic view of the White House. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll, photography, and quiet reflection on American history.
Absolutely! Lafayette Square is a popular spot for photography, especially for capturing images of the White House. You can get quite close to the fence for great shots.
Public restrooms are not typically available directly within Lafayette Square itself. Visitors may need to utilize facilities at nearby museums or government buildings.
Lafayette Square is generally considered safe, as it is a well-trafficked public area with a visible presence of law enforcement and Secret Service due to its proximity to the White House.
📸 📸 Photography
The northern edge of Lafayette Square, particularly along Pennsylvania Avenue, offers the most direct and unobstructed views of the White House. The Andrew Jackson statue also provides a classic foreground element for your White House shots.
Early morning or late afternoon (during the 'golden hour') provides the most flattering light for photographing the White House. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing for more composition options.
General photography is permitted in Lafayette Square. However, be mindful of security personnel and any temporary restrictions that may be in place. Tripods might be restricted during peak times or events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Lafayette Square
The square's transformation from a simple park to a site of historical commemoration is evident in its collection of prominent statues. The most striking is the equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson, a gift from the citizens of New Orleans, which stands proudly in the center. Other statues honor figures like the Marquis de Lafayette himself, Major General George Henry Thomas, and Admiral David Glasgow Farragut, each representing a significant chapter in American military and political history. These monuments not only add to the park's aesthetic appeal but also serve as educational touchstones for visitors.
Beyond its historical monuments, Lafayette Square offers a unique perspective of the White House. It's a popular spot for tourists to capture iconic photographs and for citizens to gather for peaceful demonstrations, reflecting its enduring role as a public forum. The park's serene atmosphere, combined with its historical weight and proximity to the nation's executive mansion, makes it a compelling destination for anyone visiting Washington D.C.
Exploring the Statues of Lafayette Square
Surrounding the park, you'll find other notable sculptures. The statue of Marquis de Lafayette, the park's namesake, stands as a tribute to the French hero of the American Revolution. Other statues include Major General George Henry Thomas, known as the 'Rock of Chickamauga' for his steadfastness during the Civil War, and Admiral David Glasgow Farragut, a distinguished naval commander. Each statue tells a story, offering a glimpse into the nation's past and the individuals who shaped it.
These statues are not merely decorative; they are integral to the identity of Lafayette Square. They invite contemplation and provide context for the park's historical significance. Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring each monument, learning about the individuals they represent, and appreciating the artistry and historical narratives they embody.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit