George Mason Memorial

Washington, D.C.'s Tidal Basin is best known for its famous monuments and iconic cherry trees. If you take a closer look, however, you'll also find a beautifully realized memorial honoring a very important yet little known founding father named George Mason -- an American patriot known as "The Father of the United States Bill of Rights."

How to get to the George Mason Memorial
Limited public transit options means that visiting the memorial demands using your feet, bicycle or car. Approach the George Mason Memorial via Ohio Drive SW or East Basin Drive SW and general visitor parking is available along Ohio Drive beside the highway overpass spanning the Potomac River.

Best and worst times to go to the George Mason Memorial
The serene floral landscape of the memorial is best experienced during the daytime hours of Spring and Summer. However, if you're a making a pilgrimage during Cherry Blossom season, be prepared for some crowding.

Admission to the George Mason Memorial
Visitation to the memorial is free to all and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Must see/do at the George Mason Memorial
Quietly resting beside a fountain pool, the memorial's central focus is the elegantly carved bronze statue of Mason himself. The sculptor, Wendy Ross, chose to depict Mason as visitor might find him in his study. Look closely and you'll see that beside him sits a stack of books, the great inspiration of his life.

Other places to visit near the George Mason Memorial
The memorial is placed within sight of the Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial. The location is a symbolic gesture, acknowledging the profound impact Mason's friendship and philosophy had upon both Washington and Jefferson during their lifetimes. Also, continue down Ohio Drive SW and you'll run into East Potomac Park where, alongside the sweeping vista of the Potomac River, a golf course and picnic area await you.

Insider tip for visitors to the George Mason Memorial
The memorial's somewhat secreted location makes it an ideal place to enjoy a quiet lunch apart from the tourist bustle. It's an excellent escape if you're looking to rest your feet after tramping around the vast expanse of the National Mall.

Author's bio: Aaron Killian is a freelance writer and licensed D.C. tour guide living in the nation's capital. He is a true history geek and loves showing off the city to visitors. Follow his exploits by visiting www.historicamerica.org.