Washington bust inside the monument.

Baltimore's Washington Monument

This monument dedicated to George Washington pre-dates the Washington Monument in Washington, DC, by over 50 years. The cornerstone was laid on July 4, 1815, by James Buchanan, a future (and historically bad) U.S. President. Local residents were fearful that it would collapse onto their houses. There are 228 marble steps to take you to the top, which is 178 feet 8 inches high. If you look up, you'll see that George is dressed in a Roman toga and wears sandals.

The monument -- basically a Doric column topped by the statue -- was designed by architect Robert Mills, who would later design the taller DC monument. Italian sculptor Enrico Causici carved the Italian-dressed Washington. Closed in 2010, the monument received a $6.5 million restoration and reopened in 2015.

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Baltimore's Washington Monument

Washington Monument and Museum

Address:: 699 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD
Directions:: Downtown. Look for the tall column with the statue of Washington on top.
Hours:: W-F 10-4, Sa 10-5 (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:: 410-396-0929
Admission:: Donation

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