Facility Overview

National Mall and Memorial Parks - Lot B, located at 971 Ohio Dr SW, serves as a premier surface-level parking facility managed by the National Park Service. Situated within the East Potomac Park area, this open-air lot provides ample space for standard passenger vehicles. Because it is an surface-level outdoor facility, there are no vertical clearance restrictions, making it an excellent choice for full-size SUVs, pickup trucks, and vehicles with roof racks that would otherwise struggle in traditional parking garages.

Prime Location & Nearby Attractions

This lot is perfectly positioned for visitors looking to explore the most iconic landmarks of Washington, D.C. Its proximity to the Tidal Basin makes it an ideal starting point for those visiting the Jefferson Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Visitors are typically within a 10 to 15-minute walk of these key monuments. Additionally, it offers convenient access to the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival activities, placing drivers right in the heart of the scenic waterfront area.

Access, Navigation & Transit Connectivity

Access to Lot B is primarily via Ohio Drive SW, which creates a scenic and direct entry route. During high-traffic events, such as the Cherry Blossom Festival, access roads may become congested, and local authorities may implement traffic pattern changes. While this location is highly car-dependent due to its placement in the park, it serves as a central hub for those heading toward the National Mall. Public transit connections, such as the D.C. Circulator bus lines, are reachable from nearby monument stops, though users should plan for some walking to connect to the nearest Metro stations.

Facility Amenities & Key Features

• Surface-level, open-air parking layout with no height restrictions.
• Designated ADA-accessible parking spaces located near primary walkways.
• Paved surface with clear stall markings.
• Well-lit areas for evening safety, though vigilance is always encouraged in park settings.
• Payment is typically processed via on-site automated pay stations or digital platforms like PayByPhone.

Ideal For

• Tourists and sightseers visiting the major National Mall memorials.
• Photography enthusiasts looking for easy access to the Tidal Basin.
• Families participating in the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
• Visitors who require clearance for oversized vehicles, campers, or roof-mounted equipment.

Visitor & Driver Tips

• Arrive early: During peak tourism seasons, particularly in spring, this lot fills to capacity very quickly.
• GPS Navigation: Input the specific address of 971 Ohio Dr SW to avoid confusion with other nearby National Park parking zones.
• Pre-payment: Always check the latest park regulations or the National Park Service website for current pricing and operating hours, as these can fluctuate based on seasonal demand.
• Footwear: Given the lot\'s proximity to the Tidal Basin, visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site serves as a trailhead for extensive walking paths around the memorials.