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Lafayette Square

4.6
·3k reviews·Washington, United States

A historic National Historic Landmark park north of the White House, featuring grand statues and iconic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, great light

CrowdLow
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Lafayette Square - time lapse photography of cars on road during night time

Lafayette Square

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, great light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic National Historic Landmark park north of the White House, featuring grand statues and iconic views.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"The White House!!! Amazing!!! Lafayette Square and the WH are spectacular to see in person."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Andrew Jackson Statue

Andrew Jackson Statue

Center of Lafayette Square

Majestic equestrian statue honoring a pivotal American figure. A must-see landmark.

White House Views

White House Views

North side of Lafayette Square

Iconic vantage point for capturing memorable photos of the President's residence.

Historic Statues

Historic Statues

Throughout Lafayette Square

Admire a collection of impressive statues commemorating key figures in American history.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Lafayette Square

Lafayette Square offers a serene escape, but timing can enhance your experience. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, especially if you're aiming for unobstructed views of the White House. Early mornings or late afternoons provide beautiful light for photos and a more peaceful atmosphere.

Navigating Lafayette Square

As a National Historic Landmark, Lafayette Square is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to stroll through the park and admire the statues. While it's adjacent to the White House, remember that security measures are in place, so be mindful of restricted areas and follow all posted guidelines.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, great light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The best free things to do in Paris! 🇫🇷🤩 #parisguide #paristips #lewalk
@le__walk
195.1K likes • 2.3M views

📸 Perfect White House Pics

Arrive early or late for fewer crowds and better photo ops of the White House. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the 7-acre park and its statues with ease. Essential for a pleasant visit. Reddit

48 Hours in Paris: 5 Fun Things to Do in Paris for the Weekend (prices included ) Save for your next trip to Paris! 🥖 #paristhingstodo #parismustdo #parismustsee #parismustvisit #paristraveltips #paris #france #mariokart #parisitinerary #paristravelguide #paristrip #whattodoinparis #pariswheretogo #thingstodoinparis
@ogecheese
78.3K likes • 1.1M views
Lafayette Square [Part 1] is one of St. Louis’s oldest and most architecturally enchanting neighborhoods—where every corner whispers a piece of 19th-century grandeur. Established in the 1830s and centered around what would become the oldest public park west of the Mississippi, the area quickly drew the city’s elite. By the 1870s, Lafayette Square was known for its opulent Second Empire and Italian...
insidethelou
4.4K likes • 56.8K views

📍 Respect Security Zones

Be aware of restricted areas near the White House and follow all official guidance. Reddit

🏛️ Admire the Statues

Take time to appreciate the historical significance and artistry of each monument. Reddit

📍Lafayette Square 🌳 Designed in 1873, Lafayette Square is located between Abercorn and E Macon Streets. Fun facts below ⬇️ 🌳 The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, Hamilton Turner Inn and the Andrew Low House Museum are located on this square! 🌳 The fountain in the center was from the Colonial Dames of America to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Savannah’s founding. . . #visits...
visitsavannah
2.1K likes • 35.7K views

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. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the 7-acre park and its statues with ease. Essential for a pleasant visit. Reddit

📍 Respect Security Zones

Be aware of restricted areas near the White House and follow all official guidance. Reddit

🏛️ Admire the Statues

Take time to appreciate the historical significance and artistry of each monument. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

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

Great White House views
Impressive historical statues
Peaceful park atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited amenities

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, Lafayette Square is designed to be accessible. Paved pathways allow for easy navigation for wheelchairs and strollers, and most areas are easily reachable. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Public restrooms are not typically available directly within Lafayette Square itself. Visitors may need to utilize facilities at nearby museums or government buildings. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lafayette Square offers a pleasant outdoor space for families to enjoy. Kids can marvel at the large equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson and imagine historical battles. The open green space is perfect for a brief run-around, and the views of the White House can spark curiosity about the presidency. Remember to bring snacks and water, as amenities within the park are limited. It's a great spot for a quick educational stop during a day of sightseeing in Washington D.C. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Lafayette Square is a dream location, especially for capturing the White House. The northern perimeter offers prime spots for unobstructed shots, particularly during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. The Andrew Jackson statue provides a dramatic foreground element, adding depth and historical context to your White House images. Be mindful of security personnel and any temporary restrictions, but generally, it's a fantastic place for iconic D.C. photography. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

Lafayette Square is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history. As a National Historic Landmark, it's rich with stories. Explore the statues of key figures like Andrew Jackson, Marquis de Lafayette, George Henry Thomas, and David Glasgow Farragut, each representing a significant era or event. The park's proximity to the White House also places it at the heart of American political history. Consider visiting with a guide or doing some pre-reading to fully appreciate the historical context. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Lafayette Square

Lafayette Square, a seven-acre park located directly north of the White House, is a National Historic Landmark steeped in American history. Established in 1824, it was named in honor of the Marquis de Lafayette, a French aristocrat and military officer who played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War. The park has served as a public space for nearly two centuries, witnessing significant historical events and evolving into a cherished landmark.

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. Reddit

Exploring the Statues of Lafayette Square

Lafayette Square is an open-air gallery of American history, adorned with several significant statues that honor influential figures. The centerpiece is the commanding equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson, the seventh U.S. President, a powerful symbol of American resolve. This bronze monument, a gift from the citizens of New Orleans, was dedicated in 1853 and is a focal point for visitors.

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. Reddit

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