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The George Washington Masonic National Memorial
101 Callahan Dr, Alexandria, VA 22301, United States
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Ch
Review №1

Pretty cool place. We missed the last tour of the day. Staff was nice and let us talk a few pics inside.

Li
Review №2

The grounds are quite beautiful with an amazing view, and the building itself is striking. I wasnt interested in paying $18 to tour the inside, but they are nice enough to allow you to stand just inside the doors and take pictures of the lobby area. Masks are provided and must be worn.

Fr
Review №3

Kind of interesting, but tour is poor value, especially since they’re using the pandemic as an excuse to further reduce value like many businesses by not including a visit to the tower. The tour guide came across kind of like a tape recorder with a strong negative magnetic charge. Droning out pre-fab messages with little expression and no spontaneity, and ever sensitively poised to take a step back anytime I took a step toward him. Was reasonably responsive to questions though. The building itself and it’s history is interesting: kind of a sad reflection on the state of America today that we no longer build such buildings, while those which do remain function primarily as relatively hollow tourist attractions, rather than actively serving the ideals they embodied which are more urgently needed today than ever before.

Th
Review №4

Cool but $18 for a tour, you cant look around by yourself.

Ro
Review №5

The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is a tribute to Harvey Wiley Corbett (the architect) creative vision. A get spot, with great views.

Wi
Review №6

Had a great time with our tour guide. They let us take a tour even though they were very close to closing on a slow day. I appreciate that. Would recommend coming back after the covid pandemic is over for the full tour and experience... Otherwise you will not be able to see the view at the top of the tower.

Ra
Review №7

Im a Prince Hall Mason and it been over 20 years since I last visited this Great Masonic Temple. And have enjoyed myself each times.Unfortunately, George Washingtons original Masonic Apron is no long on display during to the fabric fading and deteriorating, but there is a replica on display.Moreover, the Masonic Library is closed to the public. I was told. The Masonic Library is being cataloged.The gift shop have a pretty good selection of Masonic paraphernalia.

Da
Review №8

The George Washington National Masonic Memorial is a very educational destination 4 Masons and nonmasons alike. Is conveniently located close enough to the Tysons Corner metro areas that you can easily incorporate it into a road trip around the area with friends or family. Interesting lie enough, if you go to the observation floor, you are able to easily see the DC area with a handful of monuments as well as Baltimore over the horizon. If you have never been before, it is highly, highly recommended.

Md
Review №9

Peaceful place to hangout for sometime or maybe to read a book. Perhaps you can also spend time by just gazing upon the large view of the city you get from the temple.

So
Review №10

The tour was great. So much u dont know about masons. Cool exhibits on Washingtons involvement & artifacts like the sash from his casket with masonic symbols & chair from his home office, used in ceremonies. The view from the 9th floor observation deck is not to be missed. But watch for hornets on warm fall days.

Br
Review №11

We actually held an event here. Its a new venture for them, and it shows that they are trying to be very accommodating. The staff there were very nice and helpful. The venue is actually pretty cool too.Acoustics in the theater are good. Good lighting options too.I didnt get a chance to tourist around, so I cant comment there. For a venue, certainly check it out.

Yo
Review №12

Awesome!! It was so cool with many ORIGINAL peices of work. Paintings, documents and many pictures really surprise you of our former presidents and founding fathers.

St
Review №13

Excellent tour and exhibits. Peaceful grounds. A tribute to George Washington.

an
Review №14

Theatre room is very nice. A great place to host events.

Tr
Review №15

The view from the observation deck is wonderful. The history inside is astonishing and the entry is breath taking..

Bo
Review №16

Compared to other museums and monuments in Washington D. C. this one is a somewhat average place. It was a bit difficult and tricky to approach it on foot and then there were goose muck all over the pavements. Admission fee is 18 USD that I find a little bit high. I was lucky to participate in the last guided tour of the day that was very informative especially about freemasons. Exhibitions were quite basic though with some painting, books and so. The lookout part was great, you can have a stunning view to Alexandria. Overall its a pleasant place but I wouldnt go the extra mile again on foot to visit it.

Lu
Review №17

Best view of the city from this amazing place

Ol
Review №18

Really interesting place! Recommend to go there. We spent 2hours and it’s really fun. A lot of old historical things you can see there! Great experience , good for adults and kids.

To
Review №19

The Masonic temples are a great way to see American history . This temple is beautiful!$15.00 for a guided tour is well worth price and the fee goes back into Masonic funds.Easy to get to, parking available as well as handicap access.For those taking Metro rail- the Kings Street- Old Town -Stop is where you get off . To lefts out of station and then a walk up hill . To be honest- we were tired and took a cab for $5.00 it was well worth not walking up hill and steps.Tour is beautiful.For those with you not wanting tour- comfort seating available to wait.

Jo
Review №20

Great piece of history. Also it honors a great president who fought for freedom so wed have a country. Remember that protesters.

no
Review №21

- nice place to visit- sometimes busy- good place to take photos- beautiful view- overall a cool place

Ch
Review №22

The building is in excellent condition, and very impressive. Whats with the sign stating, no exercise?While it is probably an impressive view from up top,$15 is pretty steep to be charged for entry. There was almost nobody there, and the receptionist had to open the door for us to even inquire about going inside.The paths leading up to it could use some weed killer. Its probably very interesting, but the exterior doesnt shed much light on the history of the building besides the basics. Its only purpose seems to be a shrine.

Iv
Review №23

Lots of interesting information and masonic objects.Great place to learn about masonry and its labor.

Te
Review №24

Awesome display of American and Masonic architecture, artifacts, and history!! Plan to spend a few hours browsing when you visit. Be sure to take the tour.

Ra
Review №25

Truly a national treasure. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle. Well worth taking the tour, Freemason or not. This place is chocked full of history found no where else in the world! And the view from the top is the best in the area. Dont miss this!

Ma
Review №26

See the ASO here and be most pleased with that decision. Spectacular venue. Yes and...!

La
Review №27

The GW Masonic Memorial is a majestic building in Va but you can see it from many surrounding areas because it is located on a hill. Not only is a gem belonging to the Freemasons, but also it has tours to the public, and opens its doors to community events. This is a must visit place when you are around.

Co
Review №28

Incredibly exciting place and lots of History! Beautiful view from the research level. Fabulous place to take a quick bite to eat and view all of Alexandria! I highly recommend the tour — very expert guide.

Jo
Review №29

It was the Lodge of George Washington. A beautiful building with many historical artifacts that provide enlightenment about the origins of Masonry. The Gift Shop is well-stocked with high quality Masonic and Eastern Star gift selections. It affords dramatic views of Alexandria, the Potomac River and Washington environs. Highly recommended to all comers.

Gr
Review №30

It’s a real life Zelda dungeon

Ju
Review №31

Good place to learn of our founding fathers and Masonic history. There is an $18 entry fee, but you would be surprised at the cool stuff here.

Cy
Review №32

You just cant miss the opportunity to see this buildings architecture, art, and learn more intimate facts and trivia about the men and women who built this place and what it represents. This is what America is all about. Tours, bathrooms and a gift shop are available. Allowed to linger on most floors but can also go wandering about after or before tour, do so. Many artifacts that are stunning. Must see. The ninth floor offers an observation deck that has breathtaking views of DC, Old Town Alexandria, Potomac River, Rosslyn and....

Ja
Review №33

The veiw from the observation deck is worth the price of admission. Its a beautiful building, and the artifacts are exceptional.

El
Review №34

Nice view from the top, but not much else to look forward to. Tour was boring and guide was not very knowledgeable. Few interesting components to the tour.

Aa
Review №35

Long walk from old town to find out a that it was an hour wait for the next tour .. so we skipped it .. but it is pretty

Ne
Review №36

More Interesting Than I Expected! Its a beautiful well kept building, lots of interesting history and rooms to explore. The tour was, informative, casual and just enough time to see what you want. Not boring or to long like some can be. Not for small children, to many places to get into mischief. Lots of stairs on the outside, you can drive up to the top to avoid most of them.Anyone interested in history, mystery and little known facts will enjoy a visit here.

Jo
Review №37

This is a great place to explore if you are around the area. If you opt not to pay to wonder around inside (Ive added some photos, including a 360 of the theater inside), go for the beautiful grounds it sits on. It is quite the good workout starting at street level going up all the stairs to the top level front entry.

Ma
Review №38

Quite a hike up from Old Towne but worth the effort. Was a little surprised that the grounds around the memorial were not better maintained and taken care of. Get the Alexandria Key to the City Passes at the Visitor Center in town. $15 for access to numerous historical sites within Old Towne. Its $15 dollars to take the elevator ride up the tower so the pass pays for itself in one visit. The view from the top is awesome. The memorial is a beautiful structure.

Da
Review №39

$18 entrance fee and well worth it!Lots of history on our primary founding father with actual artifacts then he used as well as information on the fraternity that he loved!

ra
Review №40

Phenomenal experience I highly recommend. If you visit please treat the place with respect.

Ka
Review №41

I really enjoyed learning about the Masons and how our founding father was tied in with them and what they do for the community

Ri
Review №42

Even not being a mason, the tour guide presented the information accurately and fairly. He was very good.

Li
Review №43

Beautiful, knowledgable guides, TONS of memorabilia, gift shop and a spectacular 360° view of the DC area!

Ja
Review №44

Our first abdicater still standing tall.

Cu
Review №45

Awesome location with a bunch of historyI need to return when I have time to go thru the entire memorial (and when I can see the entire memorial)

Es
Review №46

Very impressive memorial. Very tall and visible form quite a way . I only toured the outside and must say the grounds are very nice also.

Te
Review №47

This was an interesting attraction to visit. My husband is a Mason, Scottish Rite, and a Kazim Shriner. Recommend for anyone who is affiliated or just interested in history.

Ch
Review №48

Fantastic tribute to Freemasonry. A guided tour explores multiple levels of the building, each displaying different periods of history within Freemasonry. Obviously a large emphasis of George Washingtons role in that particular lodge. Aside from the museum, two active lodge reside in the building. Fantastic 360 degree views from the top. Very reasonably priced.

Je
Review №49

The Masonic Temple in Alexandria, VA Has a lot to offer. You have a choice to take a guided tour or do your own,you wont be disappointed.

Mi
Review №50

Very impressive landmark, youve got to see the quality and beauty of the tribute to Washington from his Masonic fellows. Such impressive columns in one area, view from upstairs impressive, whatever your opinion of the organizations that fall under the umbrella you should take the tour and learn something more about them while enjoying the beauty of this monument.

Da
Review №51

Beautiful architecture and deceptively large.

Pa
Review №52

Beautiful place to visit, lots of history, scenic areas and nice people.

J.
Review №53

Interesting location and did not even know that it was a museum also. There is a lot of history in there and artifacts that are quite enlightening. The grand hall is huge and they were working on a mural on one of the walls. Theres also great views of Alexandria and across the water. (You can see MGM from here.)

G-
Review №54

Lovely building with beautiful views. Lots of history and information to be found here. if you are interested in freemasonry you dont want to miss this.

Ma
Review №55

Awesome place to get some history of the free masons and George Washington. Super nice staff and the view from the top was amazing!

An
Review №56

It was just okay. I went inside the place and they do charge 18 dollars per person.... Honestly it wasnt worth the money the place was tiny. Instead check out the views from the top for free!

ak
Review №57

Loved loved loved. We took our Kindergarten-4th graders there and it was wonderful. The staff gave a great tour, asked appropriate aged questions and the 360 degree view was out of this world! But please be very quiet. The staff was nice. Elevator and the students were able to roll down the hill

Mi
Review №58

Every America loving American should go here at least once in their lives and remember why Washington is so important to this country.

Gi
Review №59

My time was limited and so I walked to the Memorial early one Saturday morning and arrived long before it opened. I walked to the top of the steps and got a great view of Alexandria. I enjoy everything about George Washington and loved his quote inscribed on one of the monuments:“Let prejudice and local interest yield to reason. Let us look to our national character and to things beyond the present period.” Our first president was a smart man, indeed. I will return to investigate more.

Ju
Review №60

A sight to see. Tour is $18.00 po.

Da
Review №61

Interesting place with plenty of history..Worth to visit, try to come inside.Respect the outside of the building as well.It can tell the stories from the Founding fathers.

Ti
Review №62

Loved it, however the prices are a little high in my opinion

St
Review №63

Tour guide seemed unfamiliar or unsure about several points of interest and features of the building he was touring.

St
Review №64

The $15 entry fee is a bit much just to visit a monument. Although there isnt much there, they manage to make the tour last almost an hour. We paid the fee because we didnt have anything else to do and wanted to see the view from the top. That being said, it was a little interesting in that I learned more about the Masons than I ever knew before.

Ba
Review №65

Another landmark. Highest hill in Alexandria. You can see to the river from where George Washington watched the enemy approach. Easy to get to.

Ma
Review №66

Amazing view and interesting history, even if you arent the tinfoil hat type. Nice area, too, and easy metro access, but it is up a hill.

Ch
Review №67

Love it but they changed what you can see and what you cant theirs floors here that are incredibly that arnt shown to the public anymore very sad please bring them back.

Mi
Review №68

This is a must see sight the look from the observation deck alone is worth the trip

Ri
Review №69

Very clean and well maintained, the memorial is a great place to visit. The staff was friendly, and the assortment of Masonic items was pretty interesting.

Mi
Review №70

We were lucky to run into one of the staff members, Melinda. She helped us out as we had missed the tour and had only wanted to go to the observation deck. I wanted to make sure I said thank you again.

Se
Review №71

Very cool building and very very interesting, even non-masons can get something from it.

Le
Review №72

Great storehouse of Masonic history. Unfortunately the tour guides are not equally versed (and knowledgeable) in Masonic lore. Absolutely worth the visit, just take what youre told with a grain of salt.

al
Review №73

Beautiful architecture! Marvelous!

Mo
Review №74

If you are into rites and funny clothes I guess this is interesting. GW is exhibited better elsewhere and though you get quite high theres not much to see. Definitely not worth 15$.

Ri
Review №75

Over all it was a fantastic experience. Beautiful architecture coupled with immensely rich Masonic History. An informative host delivered a very professional and descriptive tour of the building, ending with a walk on the 333 foot tall observation tower. Flawless victory for American Freemasonry!

A-
Review №76

Admission cost ten or fifteen dollars, but a tour is included if you show up at the right time. The view from the top is excellent. There is a gift shop on the premises as well selling books, ties, pins, cufflinks, candy, drinks, tie bars, mugs, and more. Today, lodges will meet in the North and South lodge rooms monthly.

Er
Review №77

Wow! There are no words! If you want to know our founding father George Washington, this is the place to do it. You really get to see his beliefs and how they were formed. The Free Masons were skilled and had very high standards of moral character. The Free Masons today do as well. The museum and tour are excellent as is the education received! I highly recommend going there.

Jo
Review №78

I came here for a conference and the facility is wonderful and beautiful and full of history. I highly suggest if you can make your way in on a visiting day doing the full tour on for today I was unable to because the conference was also ongoing put the facility looks awesome and has a lot of cool history if youre into that. Built in 1970s

Me
Review №79

Really interesting place. Our family joined with a very large group, and the only suggestion I had was that I couldnt understand the tour guide in the rooms with echo, probably just because we couldnt get too close to the guide. The small museum had some interesting artifacts that are unique from those found at Mt Vernon. Our favorite part was the overlook, and was the main point of us going on the tour. Its nice that kids under 12 are free!

Jo
Review №80

Beautiful place. We celebrated George Washingtons birthday tonight!

Ea
Review №81

For years I have taken my family to the George Washington National Masonic Memorial and loved it. However, twice in the last year, we went and had a negative experience. There is a member of security there who has, each of the last two times that we went, been rude to us - made us feel unwelcome. Not because we did anything wrong. But, it just seems like hes a bully. Despite feeling a strong connection to the place, we no longer feel welcome there. This is no longer among the places that my family looks forward to visiting.

Ke
Review №82

Very informative guide for my visit. A lot of great information and artifact regarding George Washington and Freemasonry. Check it out if you get a chance!

Su
Review №83

Wonderful memorial to visit. A lot of information about the founders of the USA.

Sa
Review №84

Pretty cool place! More expensive than I expected though.

Sl
Review №85

This building is amazing both from inside and outside as well as the view from this place. The architectural and artistic details are so much detailed and rich that this building can easily compete with any museum in the city. Worth visiting.

Be
Review №86

I wasnt willing to pay the $18 entrance fee seeing as how there are so many free museums available to visit within the DC area. However, I can say that the view of the city from the building steps is impressive!

J
Review №87

Amazing architecture. Highly recommend if you are in the DC/Alexandria area.

sa
Review №88

George Washington joined the Masonic Lodge in Fredericksburg, Virginia, at the age of twenty in 1752. During the War for Independence, General Washington attended Masonic celebrations and religious observances in several states. He also supported Masonic lodges that formed within army regiments.At his first inauguration in 1791, President Washington took his oath of office on a Bible from St. John’s Lodge in New York. During his two terms, he visited Masons in North and South Carolina, and presided over the cornerstone-laying ceremony for the U.S. Capitol in 1793.

Lu
Review №89

Very interesting and historical site. Be prepared you cant go past the lobby without paying for a tour.

Ra
Review №90

Outstanding! Great tour guide. Essential visit for anyone who is interested in George Washington and what drove him personally; God and Service and Geometry.

Je
Review №91

Decent collection of George Washington artifacts, light on the Masonic sales pitch. The tour was good, but the price is a bit steep considering the alternatives you can find either at the Smithsonian or Mount Vernon.

Ph
Review №92

Interesting place. 3rd visit there with friends. Worth the time and the price

Ja
Review №93

Weve been to DC many times and totally missed this site. Its an amazing part of history.

Mi
Review №94

Visited it a couple of times. Once with my Mom and once with co-workers. Lovely exhibits, friendly people, and I cant really put in words just how lovely the whole structure is. Even the grounds AROUND it give it a feeling of calmness. There is so much history here and it is a MUST visit for anybody visiting Alexandria, the DC area, or visiting the state itself. Just make sure to check the website for tour times and so on.

Bl
Review №95

It was closed when we went, so my review can be updated once I make it in. Really neat building from the outside though!

Gl
Review №96

A really interesting place, definitely worth checking out. Beautiful on the inside. There is an 18 dollar entrance fee, but no discounts other than for masons

Wi
Review №97

Very interesting. I learned new facts and a history lesson. There is a tour fee but worthwhile. Not for small children

Na
Review №98

So my uncle is a mason and we decided to stop in. As we were approaching the entrance we were surrounded by a crowd and ended up going into the wrong door.... when my father approached the desk thinking it was the front entrance the guard there immediately started yelling at him. At this time seeing a table of brochures, I walked to the table and he started yelling at me.... I advised him that we were looking for the front desk to inquire about a tour and he continued to yell stating that there was a sign outside... I, of course, checked for the sign which stated in very small letters at the bottom the location of the front desk. If he would have only given us a chance to explain what we were looking for but he was so busy yelling at us. By this time my family had no interest in staying because of the guard. I’m sure it’s a lovely place but until that guard either learns how to treat people or is replaced my family will not be going back.

Gu
Review №99

Weve dined at other Clydes restaurants and decided to try this location. Its in a office park; however, you wouldnt know that from the interior, which carries off the Northwoods lodge theme perfectly. Food was very good, especially recommend the trout and duck (seasonal item). Service was good.

Sh
Review №100

A lot of interesting artifacts about George Washington and the view you will see is amazing!!

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.6 Rating
  • Address:101 Callahan Dr, Alexandria, VA 22301, United States
  • Site:http://gwmemorial.org/
  • Phone:+1 703-683-2007
Categories
  • Museum
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:9am–5pm
  • Tuesday:9am–5pm
  • Wednesday:9am–5pm
  • Thursday:9am–5pm
  • Friday:9am–5pm
  • Saturday:9am–5pm
  • Sunday:9am–5pm
Highlights
  • Live performances:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible lift:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
  • Restaurant:No
Crowd
  • Family friendly:Yes
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