The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is a nine-floor tower on Shuter’s Hill at 101 Callahan Dr in Alexandria. Built in a neoclassical style inspired by the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria in Egypt, it honors George Washington and his Masonic ties. Inside, a guided tour takes you past exhibits, a replica lodge room and a large bronze statue of Washington. Take the elevator to the ninth-floor observation deck for wide views over Alexandria and Washington, D.C., then walk the grounds for a quieter look at the hilltop setting.
A tower inspired by an ancient lighthouse
The memorial stands on a hillside above Alexandria, where its tower can be seen from miles away. Its design takes inspiration from the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria in Egypt. The New York firm Helmle & Corbett designed the building, and construction began in 1922. The cornerstone was dedicated in a Masonic ceremony in 1923.
The building was largely constructed between 1922 and 1932, though work on many of its interior spaces continued for decades. It was completed in 1970. Freemasons across the country contributed funds to build the memorial in honor of George Washington, who was a Freemason.
Inside the memorial
The memorial combines a museum with an active Masonic temple. The first and second floors include a replica lodge room and a small museum, with exhibits about Washington, Freemasonry and the organization’s history in the United States. Murals, sculptures and Masonic imagery appear throughout the building.
A guided tour provides access to the interior and explains the displays and their historical context. A prominent feature is the bronze statue of Washington, which stands 17 feet tall. The memorial also has a library and spaces used for meetings, performances and community events.
Views from the observation deck
The ninth-floor observation deck is reached by elevator and looks out over Alexandria and Washington, D.C. From the hilltop, the view also takes in Old Town and the Potomac. A camera on the balcony sends a live view to a screen on the top floor.
The memorial sits above King and Duke Streets, at the western end of the King Street Mile. Getting there from the King Street Metro and bus stations involves an uphill walk. The surrounding grounds and steps provide open-air viewpoints as well as space for a quiet walk.
Preguntas frecuentes
Can you go inside the memorial?
Yes. The building is open for guided tours, which provide access to its interior and upper floors.
How long should you allow for a visit?
Plan for about three to four hours to explore the building and its floors.
Can you reach the observation deck without using stairs?
Yes. The ninth-floor observation deck is reached by elevator.
What can you see inside?
The memorial includes a replica Masonic lodge room, a small museum, exhibits, murals, sculptures and a 17-foot bronze statue of George Washington.
