Constitution Gardens

1850 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.

Amenities

Wheelchair accessible
Open 24 hours
Food & drink — Near Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Restrooms — Available near southwest corner of Constitution Gardens Pond, towards the Vietnam Women's Memorial and Reflecting Pool. Daytime hours vary

Constitution Gardens is a fifty-acre formal park with a 6.5-acre artificial lake located on the south side of Constitution Avenue NW between 17th Street NW and Henry Bacon Drive NW.

The land for the gardens was originally reclaimed from the Potomac River in the late-nineteenth century. Temporary office buildings stood there during World War I and II—the last of which were torn down in 1971. The following year, President Richard Nixon announced the creation of a formal park to commemorate events related to the American Revolution and the founding of the Republic.

Construction then began in 1974, and the designers (Skidmore, Owing and Merrill Inc.) worked hard to ensure that the space offered a reflective setting that complemented nearby presidential memorials.

On September 17, 1986, President Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation in honor of the Bicentennial of the United States Constitution—making the park a living legacy that honors our Nation’s Constitution.

Take a virtual stroll through this National Mall site

History

Timeline of events

Late 19th century

The land for Constitution Gardens is reclaimed from the Potomac River through numerous projects.

1918-1971

The Munitions Building (War Department) and the Main Navy Building (Navy Department) occupy the space.

1971

The last of the temporary World War II structures around the Reflecting Pool are removed.

1972

President Richard Nixon announces the creation of a formal park to pay tribute to the American Revolution and founding of the Republic.

1974, Aug.

Construction of Constitution Gardens officially begins with designers Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill, Inc. at the helm.

1976, May 27

Constitution Gardens is dedicated as an American Revolution Bicentennial Project.

1978, May 27

Constitution Gardens is officially dedicated.

1982

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is added to Constitution Gardens.

1984, Jul. 02

The 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence Memorial is dedicated.

1986, Sep. 17

President Ronald Reagan issues a proclamation in honor of the 200th anniversary of the United States Constitution, designating the gardens as a living legacy dedicated to the commemoration of the United States Constitution.

Key Features

Constitution Gardens is a park meant for commemorating our Nation’s presidents, honoring war veterans and celebrating the United States’ commitment to freedom.

The park boasts impressive features, including:

Urban park space

Near the end of the nineteenth century, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers initiated a dredging project that created the land that became Potomac Park. 50 acres of land that was originally beneath the Potomac River was dredged that became Constitution Gardens. Running through the park are meandering walks designed for use by pedestrians and cyclists. These are laid out in two large peanut-shaped loops; one follows the shoreline of the lake, the other curves around the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Constitution Gardens Pond and Signer's Island

The Memorial to the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence

Reflection Questions

High school learners: Our nation’s past is complex and often provokes reflection, especially as we look to the future.

Here are a few questions to inspire deeper thinking:

How does Constitution Gardens serve as a living legacy dedicated to the commemoration of the United States Constitution?
What role did the Declaration of Independence play in the American Revolution?
How has the interpretation of the Declaration of Independence evolved over time?

Educational Activities

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Other Resources

Interested in learning more? The following links will provide you with additional context and information: