09 Jul A walk through the heart of the nation’s capital.

National Mall and Memorial Parks (NAMA) was officially established in 1965, it contains more than 1,000 acres of the oldest protected park lands in the National Park Service. The National Mall is America’s front yard, featuring the Washington Monument, WWII and Lincoln Memorials, 156 reservations, circles, fountains and more. The areas within NAMA provides visitors with ample opportunities to commemorate presidential legacies; honor the nation’s veterans and military history; as well as exposure to American history and culture. It is a privilege for me to be working on such historic grounds where I can see the diversity of people who visit the park daily.

NAMA contains more than 80 historic structures and over 150 major named historic parks, squares, circles and triangles. Park resources include the 2,000 American elms which line the Mall and the 3,000 internationally-renowned Japanese cherry trees along the Tidal Basin. These natural and cultural resources have made our Nation’s Capital one of the more heavily visited and photographed places in the world. Approximately 25 million people visit each year to experience this unique collection of structures and spaces. They take advantage of interpretive programming presented by Park Rangers, park exhibits, publications, orientation services, and panoramic views. A walk through the heart of the nation’s capital brings visitors face to face with presidents and visionaries, open park lands, and elaborate memorials. NAMA continues to evolve as Americans seek new ways to recognize our heritage.