Tips for Monument tickets?

Question

I tried this morning to get monument tickets. Used the world clock to refresh right at 10:00. Showed available time slots and everytime I selected one, it said no longer available. Within 15 seconds, all were gone.

Going to keep trying over next few days, but do you all have any tips to help secure them? Or is there a tour company you would recommend that includes the monument? This is number one on the list for my son’s 10th birthday.

Answer

Securing tickets for popular monuments in Washington DC, like the Washington Monument, can be challenging, especially for special occasions like a child’s birthday. Tickets are released at specific times and sell out extremely quickly. Here are some tips to improve your chances and alternative options.

Tips for getting tickets directly:

Book exactly at the release time: Tickets are typically released online at 10:00 a.m. Eastern. Set an alarm, log in a few minutes early, and refresh right at 10:00 a.m.
Use multiple devices or browsers: Sometimes, having a second device or browser window can give you an edge if one session lags.
Be flexible with times: If your schedule allows, try selecting different time slots. Earlier or later slots sometimes have availability if mid-morning times sell out first.
Check frequently: People cancel tickets occasionally, so checking throughout the day can sometimes yield unexpected openings.
Create an account in advance: Being logged in and having all your information pre-filled speeds up checkout.

Alternative approaches:

Tour companies: Several reputable DC tour companies include Washington Monument tickets in their packages, often securing them in advance. Examples include Viator, City Wonders, and Big Bus Tours. These tours sometimes combine multiple monuments or museums, which can also be convenient for a family.
National Park Service or DC Visitor Centers: Occasionally, tickets are available in person, though this is less reliable and can be more stressful with a child.
Consider early morning or late afternoon tours: Guided tours that include monuments may have reserved entry times without the need to compete online.

Additional advice:

Be patient and persistent. Many people eventually succeed by refreshing at the right moment.
Have backup plans in case the monument is sold out—other kid-friendly activities include the National Air & Space Museum or the Lincoln Memorial, which do not require timed tickets.
Combine your monument visit with a nearby picnic or other National Mall activities to make it a full memorable day even if you need to adjust times.

By using a combination of persistence, flexibility, and potentially a guided tour, you should be able to secure a Washington Monument experience for your son’s birthday.

Tips for Monument tickets?

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