Explore the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial in D.C. with kids—fun facts, must-see spots, nearby attractions, and helpful tips for all ages.
THE ULTIMATE PARENT’S GUIDE
Visit the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial — Family Guide
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
- The FDR Memorial tells the story of one of America’s most important presidents through water, stone, and bronze sculptures spread across four outdoor rooms!
- WOW! The memorial is exactly 7.5 acres – that’s as big as about 5 football fields put together!
- HOLY COW! The memorial includes 21 different quotes carved in granite, and each letter is filled with real gold leaf to make them shine!
- SUPER COOL! FDR’s dog Fala is the only presidential pet ever honored with its own statue in a presidential memorial!
- AMAZING! The waterfalls in the memorial use enough water every minute to fill 2,000 bathtubs!
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Waterfall and Pool Plaza Get Ready for the Waterfall and Pool Plaza : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This spot features amazing waterfalls that make different sounds and patterns, representing different parts of FDR’s time as president. It’s like nature’s own music show!
INTERESTING FACT! The waterfalls use 100,000 gallons of recycled water every minute – that’s like filling up a backyard swimming pool every few seconds!
COOL ACTIVITY! Play “Waterfall Symphony” – Stand quietly and close your eyes. Count how many different water sounds you can hear. Try to make sounds with your mouth that match the waterfalls!
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could control these waterfalls like a conductor controls an orchestra, what kind of music would you make?
DISCUSS: Water can make over 15 different sounds depending on how it falls and what it hits!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Just like a musician uses different instruments to create songs, the memorial’s designers used different-sized rocks and varying heights to make the water create unique sounds. Some waterfalls are gentle and peaceful, while others are loud and powerful. The sounds change depending on where you stand, how the wind blows, and even the time of day!
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think they chose water as a main part of this memorial?
DISCUSS: During FDR’s time as president, he used water to help create jobs by building huge dams that brought electricity to millions of homes!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: FDR believed that like water, a country should keep moving forward no matter what. He helped America during tough times just like water finds its way around rocks. The different pools represent the different challenges America faced, and how FDR helped guide the country through them, just like water always finds its path.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find three different types of water movements (like falling, bubbling, or streaming).
HINT: Look at both the big and small waterfalls – some water moves straight down, some curves, and some spreads out like a curtain!
OBJECTIVE: Try to spot any coins in the pools (but don’t throw any in!)
HINT: The sun makes coins sparkle – look when the light hits the water just right.
First Dog Statue (Fala) Get Ready for the First Dog Statue (Fala) : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? Meet Fala, FDR’s faithful Scottish Terrier who was like a White House celebrity!
INTERESTING FACT! Fala received so many letters from fans that he needed his own secretary to answer them all.
COOL ACTIVITY! Play “Be Like Fala” – Stand next to the statue and strike the same pose as this famous presidential pup!
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you were the president’s dog, what would be your favorite room in the White House to explore?
DISCUSS: Fala had a special bed right next to the president’s desk in the Oval Office!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Fala went everywhere with FDR – he rode in cars, trains, and even boats! He attended important meetings, had his own collar with a special tag that said “Fala Roosevelt,” and even had his own birthday parties in the White House. He was so famous that he appeared in movies and newspapers, and people sent him presents from all over the world!
ASK YOUR KIDS: What do you think Fala’s job was as the president’s dog?
DISCUSS: Fala knew how to do tricks that made people smile, even during serious meetings!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Fala had a very important job – he helped make people happy during difficult times. When FDR had to make big decisions to help the country, Fala was there to keep him company. The little dog became a symbol of friendship and loyalty, showing that even small friends can make a big difference in people’s lives.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find Fala’s ears and tail – are they pointing up or down?
HINT: Look at his expression – happy dogs often hold their ears and tail in a certain way!
OBJECTIVE: Count how many other visitors stop to pet Fala’s nose
HINT: Many people believe rubbing his nose brings good luck!
Breadline Sculpture Get Ready for the Breadline Sculpture : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This special sculpture shows how people helped each other during hard times, like waiting in line to share food.
INTERESTING FACT! The sculptor made the figures life-sized so children could stand next to them and see what it was like to be there.
COOL ACTIVITY! “Share and Care Game” – Take turns with your family members sharing something nice you’d do to help someone who needs it.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could give one of these people a gift to make them smile, what would you give them?
DISCUSS: During this time, many communities created “penny restaurants” where people could get a meal for just one penny!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: During the Great Depression, neighbors helped neighbors in amazing ways. People would share what little food they had, create community gardens, and even take turns cooking for entire neighborhoods. Some restaurants would let people work for their meals by washing dishes or sweeping floors. It was a time when Americans showed how kind they could be to each other.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How can you tell these people are friends even though they look tired?
DISCUSS: The sculptor made these figures lean on each other to show how people supported one another during tough times.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Look at how the people in line stand close together, sharing their warmth and hope. Even though times were hard, people found ways to smile and help each other. They would tell stories, share jokes, and sometimes even sing songs while waiting in line. This reminds us that friendship and kindness are sometimes the most important things we can share.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find different types of hats or coats the figures are wearing
HINT: Look carefully at each person – they’re wearing different kinds of clothes from the 1930s!
OBJECTIVE: Try to spot any children in the sculpture group
HINT: Look between the adults – sometimes smaller figures are partially hidden
Eleanor Roosevelt Statue Get Ready for the Eleanor Roosevelt Statue : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? Meet Eleanor Roosevelt, a brave First Lady who helped make the world a better place for children everywhere!
INTERESTING FACT! Eleanor was the first First Lady to hold regular press conferences and write a daily newspaper column.
COOL ACTIVITY! “Kind Hearts Club” – Stand near Eleanor’s statue and take turns sharing one kind thing you did today or plan to do tomorrow.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could ask Eleanor Roosevelt one question about helping others, what would you ask?
DISCUSS: Eleanor traveled around the country visiting children in schools and helping them get better education and food programs!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Eleanor believed every child deserved to be happy and healthy. She worked to create school lunch programs so kids wouldn’t be hungry at school. She visited children all over America and listened to their stories. She even wrote special letters to children in her newspaper column, answering their questions and giving them advice.
ASK YOUR KIDS: What do you think made Eleanor such a good helper to others?
DISCUSS: Eleanor had a special rule – every day she tried to do something that scared her, to become braver!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Eleanor showed that anyone can make a difference, no matter how old they are. She believed in being kind to everyone, standing up for what’s right, and never giving up. She taught people that the best way to feel happy is to help others feel happy too. Even when people disagreed with her, she kept working to make the world better for children and families.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find the United Nations symbol near Eleanor’s statue
HINT: Look for a round design with a map of the world
OBJECTIVE: Notice Eleanor’s expression – what do you think she’s thinking about?
HINT: Look at how she’s standing and where she’s looking
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial:
Thomas Jefferson Memorial: Just a short walk away, this beautiful dome-shaped building looks like a birthday cake and has a giant statue of Thomas Jefferson inside! The steps are perfect for a snack break while looking at the water.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: A quick walk around the Tidal Basin, you’ll find this inspiring memorial with a huge statue that looks like it’s coming right out of a mountain! Kids love finding Dr. King’s inspiring words carved in the walls. View the Parent’s Guide!
Tidal Basin Paddle Boats: Right nearby, you can rent paddle boats shaped like ducks and dragons to get a duck’s-eye view of all the memorials from the water! (Available seasonally)
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- “My First Biography: Franklin D. Roosevelt” by Marion Dane Bauer – A perfect introduction for young readers ages 4-7
- “A Boy Named FDR: How Franklin D. Roosevelt Grew Up to Change America” by Kathleen Krull – Features wonderful illustrations and stories from FDR’s childhood
- “Looking at Lincoln” by Maira Kalman – While this is about a different president, it helps children understand what a president does and how memorials help us remember important leaders
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
- The FDR Memorial spans 7.5 acres, making it a uniquely immersive presidential memorial experience!
- WOW! The memorial includes 21 different quotes carved in granite, more than any other presidential memorial in DC!
- HOLY COW! FDR was the only president to serve four terms, which is why the memorial has four outdoor rooms – after him, the law was changed to limit presidents to two terms!
- SUPER COOL! The memorial features over 6,000 tons of granite blocks from South Dakota, North Carolina, and Georgia!
- AMAZING! If you laid out all the water features end to end, they would stretch longer than a football field!
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Room One – First Term (1933-1937) Get Ready for the Room One – First Term (1933-1937) : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This dramatic entrance sets the stage for FDR’s presidency during the Great Depression, featuring a powerful waterfall that represents the nation’s economic turmoil and hope for recovery.
INTERESTING FACT! The waterfalls throughout the memorial use exactly 896,000 gallons of water per hour – enough to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in about 3 hours!
COOL ACTIVITY! Stand near the waterfall and close your eyes. Feel how the water’s sound changes as you move closer or farther away, just like how the impact of the Great Depression affected different parts of the country differently.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: “Why do you think they chose a waterfall to represent this time in history?”
DISCUSS: During the Great Depression, the mighty Niagara Falls was reduced to a trickle as the government diverted water to generate more electricity for struggling communities.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Just like a waterfall can be both powerful and scary but also beautiful and life-giving, the Great Depression was a time of both hardship and hope. The water here changes from chaotic at the top to calm at the bottom, showing how FDR’s programs helped bring order to chaos. The sound of falling water also drowns out city noise, helping visitors focus on the experience – just like Americans had to focus on recovery during tough times.
ASK YOUR KIDS: “If you were president during a crisis, how would you communicate with the American people?”
DISCUSS: FDR was the first president to effectively use radio to speak directly to Americans in their homes, reaching up to 60 million listeners during his famous “fireside chats.”
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Before television or internet, families would gather around their radios to hear FDR speak. He would practice his speeches carefully, even putting marbles in his mouth while rehearsing to improve his pronunciation! He chose simple words and spoke as if he was having a conversation with friends, making complex problems easier to understand. Many people felt like he was right there in their living rooms, talking just to them.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find FDR’s famous quote about fear. Count how many words are in it.
HINT: Look for the largest text carved into the granite walls.
OBJECTIVE: Locate the water feature that looks like a series of steps.
HINT: This represents the programs FDR created to help people during the Depression. Each level represents a different program.
Eleanor Roosevelt Statue Get Ready for the Eleanor Roosevelt Statue : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This groundbreaking statue honors the first First Lady to be featured in a presidential memorial, showcasing Eleanor’s role as a champion of human rights and social justice.
INTERESTING FACT! The statue shows Eleanor standing in front of the United Nations emblem because she helped write the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and was nicknamed “First Lady of the World.”
COOL ACTIVITY! Stand in Eleanor’s pose and imagine giving a speech about something you believe in strongly. What would you say to change the world?
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: “Why do you think Eleanor Roosevelt chose to visit coal mines and poor neighborhoods instead of just staying in the White House?”
DISCUSS: Eleanor traveled over 40,000 miles in just one year to see how Americans were living during the Great Depression, and she would often disguise herself to see the real conditions!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Eleanor believed that to help people, you needed to understand their lives firsthand. She wrote a daily newspaper column called “My Day” for 27 years, sharing what she learned from her travels. She fought for civil rights, women’s rights, and children’s welfare. She even resigned from the Daughters of the American Revolution when they wouldn’t let African American singer Marian Anderson perform at their hall, and helped arrange for her to sing at the Lincoln Memorial instead.
ASK YOUR KIDS: “If you could create a new right that all people should have, what would it be and why?”
DISCUSS: Eleanor helped write the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which includes 30 rights that belong to every person on Earth, and it’s been translated into more than 500 languages!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Eleanor believed that rights come with responsibilities. She worked to ensure every person had access to education, fair wages, and decent housing. She was so respected globally that President Truman called her the “First Lady of the World.” Today, her work continues through the United Nations, and many of the rights we enjoy were championed by her first.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find the UN symbol behind Eleanor’s statue and count how many olive branches are in the design.
HINT: Look carefully at the wall behind the statue.
OBJECTIVE: Locate a quote by Eleanor about human rights near her statue.
HINT: The quote mentions “future” and “today.”
The Breadline Sculpture Get Ready for the The Breadline Sculpture : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? These life-sized bronze figures tell a powerful story of the Great Depression, showing the dignity and struggle of ordinary Americans waiting in line for food.
INTERESTING FACT! The sculptor, George Segal, created these figures using real people as models, and their faces show actual expressions of patience and worry from that era.
COOL ACTIVITY! Stand next to the figures (without touching) and notice how they’re exactly life-sized. Count how many people are in line and observe their different poses and expressions.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: “Why do you think the artist made the figures look so worn and tired?”
DISCUSS: During the Great Depression, some breadlines were so long they wrapped around entire city blocks, with people waiting up to 8 hours for a single meal!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The sculptor wanted to show how the Depression affected real people. Notice how the men’s coats appear thin and worn, their shoulders are slumped, and they keep their hands in their pockets for warmth. These details tell us about pride – even in desperate times, people tried to maintain their dignity. Many Americans who never thought they’d need help suddenly found themselves in lines like this. This led to the creation of our modern food stamp program and social security system.
ASK YOUR KIDS: “If you had to wait in line for hours for food, what would you do to pass the time or help others waiting with you?”
DISCUSS: Communities during the Depression often organized “penny restaurants” where people could get a meal for just one cent, and those who could afford it would leave extra pennies to help others.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: During hard times, Americans showed incredible kindness to each other. People would share what little they had, create community gardens, and help neighbors find jobs. Some restaurants would give away their leftover food at the end of the day, while others would offer “pay-what-you-can” meals. This spirit of helping others continues today through food banks and community programs.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find and count all the different types of hats worn by the figures.
HINT: Look carefully at each figure’s head – some hats might be worn differently.
OBJECTIVE: Look for signs of wear on the figures’ clothes and shoes.
HINT: Pay special attention to the coat sleeves and pant legs.
Rural American Scene/Fireside Chat Area Get Ready for the Rural American Scene/Fireside Chat Area : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This area recreates the connection between FDR and ordinary Americans through his famous radio talks, featuring a bronze radio and rural scene.
INTERESTING FACT! The bronze chair next to the radio is empty, inviting visitors to imagine sitting and listening to FDR’s voice coming through the radio.
COOL ACTIVITY! Sit near the radio and pretend you’re in the 1930s, listening to one of FDR’s fireside chats. What problems would you want the president to address?
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: “How is getting news from the radio different from how we get news today?”
DISCUSS: During FDR’s fireside chats, water usage in cities dropped dramatically because nobody wanted to flush toilets and miss part of his speech!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Before television and internet, radio was like magic – it brought voices right into your living room. FDR understood this power and used simple words and stories to explain complex problems. He would often practice his speeches for days, timing them perfectly to fit between popular radio shows. Many families would gather together, just like for a movie night today, to listen to these talks. Some people kept their letters from FDR responding to their concerns about his radio talks for their entire lives!
ASK YOUR KIDS: “If you could give a fireside chat to the whole country today, what would you talk about?”
DISCUSS: FDR received up to 450,000 letters a week from Americans after his fireside chats – that’s like getting 7,000 emails every hour!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The president chose the term “fireside chat” to make people feel like he was just having a friendly conversation in their home. He would often begin with “My friends…” and explain things as if talking to a neighbor. Today, presidents use social media and television, but FDR’s intimate radio style created such a strong connection that some people would answer back to their radios while he spoke!
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find all the rural life elements in the scene (like farm tools or animals).
HINT: Look both at the sculptures and the relief carvings on the walls.
OBJECTIVE: Locate the date of one of FDR’s most famous fireside chats carved nearby.
HINT: Look for text mentioning “banking” or “crisis.”
Victory Room/World War II Section Get Ready for the Victory Room/World War II Section : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This powerful final room captures the drama of World War II through broken columns, chaotic waterfalls, and some of FDR’s most inspiring wartime quotes.
INTERESTING FACT! The scattered, broken columns aren’t just artistic – they symbolize the destruction of war in Europe and the Pacific, while the triumphant water features represent America’s strength.
COOL ACTIVITY! Walk through the space and notice how the mood changes from chaos (represented by tumbling water) to calm (shown in still pools), just like the journey from war to peace.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: “Why do you think the designers made the water move differently in this room compared to the others?”
DISCUSS: The waterfalls in this room drop 14 feet and create a thunderous roar that drowns out all other sounds, deliberately mimicking the overwhelming nature of war.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The water features tell the story of WWII through sound and motion. Notice how the water starts peaceful, then becomes chaotic with multiple falls and directions – just like how the war spread across the world. The mist created by the falls can make rainbows on sunny days, representing hope during dark times. The final still pool represents peace achieved after victory. This design helps visitors feel, rather than just read about, this crucial period in history.
ASK YOUR KIDS: “If you had to design a memorial about peace, what symbols would you use and why?”
DISCUSS: FDR carried a special good luck coin throughout WWII, and he would often hold it while making crucial decisions about the war.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Memorials use symbols to help us understand big ideas. The broken columns here represent both destruction and strength – even broken, they still stand. The granite used in this section came from the same quarries as the other rooms, showing how America remained solid despite challenges. FDR led America through both the Great Depression and most of WWII, but didn’t live to see the victory – he died just weeks before Germany surrendered. This room honors both the sacrifice and triumph of that time.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find FDR’s famous “Four Freedoms” and match each freedom with its corresponding relief panel.
HINT: Look for four distinct carved scenes that show freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear.
OBJECTIVE: Count how many broken columns are in this section.
HINT: Some columns are standing, some are fallen, and some are partially broken.
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial:
Jefferson Memorial: Just a short walk away, this stunning domed memorial offers beautiful views across the Tidal Basin and hosts amazing cherry blossom views in spring. View the Parent’s Guide!
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: Located right next door, this powerful memorial features a 30-foot statue of Dr. King emerging from a mountain of hope, with inspiring quotes about justice and equality. View the Parent’s Guide!
Tidal Basin Paddle Boats: Take a fun break from monument-hopping and rent a paddle boat to see the memorials from the water – a unique perspective your kids will love!
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- “FDR’s Alphabet Soup: New Deal America 1932-1939” by Tonya Bolden – Perfect for ages 9-12, this book explains FDR’s programs in kid-friendly language with lots of historical photos.
- “Eleanor Roosevelt: A Life of Discovery” by Russell Freedman – An award-winning biography that brings Eleanor’s remarkable story to life for young readers.
- National Park Service’s Junior Ranger Program – Download the free activity book before your visit from the NPS website. Kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge by completing activities during their visit.
- “What Was the Great Depression?” by Janet Pascal – Part of the popular “What Was?” series, this illustrated book provides excellent background for understanding many elements of the memorial.
- Ken Burns’ “The Roosevelts” documentary – Watch selected clips (parent-screened) from this documentary to give kids visual context of the era.
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
- The FDR Memorial spans 7.5 acres, making it the largest presidential memorial on the National Mall.
- WOW! The memorial contains 21 different quotes carved in granite, more than any other presidential memorial!
- HOLY COW! The waterfalls pump 100,000 gallons of recycled water per minute!
- SUPER COOL! The memorial’s rooms are arranged chronologically, with each room representing one of FDR’s four terms!
- AMAZING! The memorial’s sculptures include 10 bronze statues depicting citizens during the Great Depression and WWII!
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Room One – First Term (1933-1937) Get Ready for the Room One – First Term (1933-1937) : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This room sets the stage for understanding how FDR tackled the Great Depression, featuring his famous “fear itself” quote carved in granite and powerful sculptures depicting the American people’s struggles.
INTERESTING FACT! The sculptures of men in the breadline were created using real people’s faces from Depression-era photographs, making them true representations of historical figures rather than generic statues.
COOL ACTIVITY! Compare the facial expressions and body language of the figures in the breadline to modern photos of economic hardship (can use phone to look up recent images). What similarities and differences do you notice in how human suffering is portrayed?
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think FDR chose to address fear specifically in his first inaugural address?
DISCUSS: When FDR gave this speech, 25% of Americans were unemployed, and nearly every bank in the country had closed its doors.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The psychological impact of the Depression was as devastating as its economic effects. People were not just afraid of poverty – they were terrified of the future itself. FDR understood that fear could paralyze a nation, preventing recovery. His words weren’t just about economics; they were about restoring confidence and hope. This speech marked the beginning of his revolutionary “fireside chats,” where he used radio to speak directly to Americans in their homes, creating a sense of intimate connection between the president and the people.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do the water features in this room differ from later rooms, and what might this symbolize?
DISCUSS: The water features in Room One are intentionally smaller and more controlled, representing the beginning of FDR’s presidency and his initial programs.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The memorial’s design uses water as a metaphor for the escalating challenges of FDR’s presidency. The progression of water features throughout the memorial tells a story: from these smaller, more contained pools representing the early days of the New Deal, to the larger, more dramatic waterfalls in later rooms symbolizing World War II. The architect, Lawrence Halprin, designed these features to create an emotional journey, with the sound of water growing louder as visitors move through time and crisis.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find the hidden microphone symbol near FDR’s famous quote.
HINT: Look closely at the carved text – there’s a small symbol representing radio broadcasting.
OBJECTIVE: Locate all five figures in the breadline and identify different emotions in their expressions.
HINT: Pay attention to how the sculptor used different head positions and facial features to convey various states of despair and resignation.
Social Programs Waterfall Get Ready for the Social Programs Waterfall : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This dramatic waterfall represents the flood of social programs FDR created through the New Deal, making it a perfect spot to understand how government can respond to crisis.
INTERESTING FACT! The waterfall’s design includes exactly 54 granite blocks, representing the major New Deal programs FDR implemented, including Social Security, the CCC, and the WPA.
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a “New Deal for Today” – have teens identify three current national problems and design their own government programs to address them, inspired by FDR’s approach.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you were president during a major economic crisis, which would you prioritize: immediate relief or long-term reform? Why?
DISCUSS: FDR’s New Deal programs employed over 8.5 million people, building more than 650,000 miles of roads, 125,000 buildings, and 8,000 parks.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The New Deal represented a fundamental shift in how Americans viewed government’s role in their lives. Programs like Social Security, which still exists today, were revolutionary for their time. FDR’s approach combined immediate relief (like direct food aid and job creation) with long-term reforms (like banking regulations and labor laws). Many of these programs faced fierce opposition from those who called them “socialist,” yet they helped create the modern American middle class. Consider how current debates about government programs echo these historical arguments.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do modern social safety net programs compare to FDR’s New Deal programs? What’s changed and what’s remained?
DISCUSS: The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) planted over 3 billion trees and built facilities in national parks that we still use today.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The New Deal transformed American society by establishing the concept of government responsibility for citizens’ welfare. Today’s unemployment insurance, minimum wage laws, and workplace safety regulations all trace back to this era. The programs weren’t just about giving handouts – they were about preserving dignity through work. The WPA even employed artists and writers, recognizing that preserving culture was as important as building infrastructure. This raises interesting questions about how we value different types of work in society and what role government should play in supporting the arts and culture.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Count the number of different water patterns in the waterfall and consider how they might represent different types of New Deal programs.
HINT: Look for changes in water flow direction and intensity – some smooth, some turbulent.
OBJECTIVE: Find and photograph three different quotes about social programs carved into the surrounding walls.
HINT: Look both high and low – some of the most powerful quotes are placed at eye level while others require more searching.
Eleanor Roosevelt Statue Get Ready for the Eleanor Roosevelt Statue : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This groundbreaking statue represents the first time a First Lady has been honored in a presidential memorial, highlighting Eleanor’s crucial role in shaping human rights and social justice.
INTERESTING FACT! The statue shows Eleanor standing in front of the United Nations emblem, representing her role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which she considered her greatest achievement.
COOL ACTIVITY! Research a current human rights issue and draft a short speech in Eleanor’s style, addressing how she might approach this modern challenge.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think Eleanor Roosevelt chose to hold press conferences exclusively for female reporters?
DISCUSS: By only allowing female reporters at her press conferences, Eleanor forced newspapers to hire their first women journalists, as no paper wanted to miss out on White House coverage.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Eleanor revolutionized the role of First Lady through her activism. She held 348 press conferences over 12 years, wrote a daily newspaper column called “My Day,” gave countless speeches, and even had her own radio show. She used these platforms to advocate for civil rights, women’s rights, and workers’ rights. When she visited coal mines, she went down into the shafts herself. When she learned about racial discrimination, she arranged the famous concert of Marian Anderson at the Lincoln Memorial after the DAR refused to let Anderson perform at Constitution Hall.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How did Eleanor’s role during WWII challenge traditional gender roles of the 1940s?
DISCUSS: Eleanor flew 23,000 miles across the Pacific during WWII to boost troop morale, becoming the first First Lady to fly across an ocean.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Eleanor redefined what women could achieve in public service. During the war, she advocated for women in the workforce, supported the integration of the armed forces, and fought for equal pay. She visited troops worldwide, wrote reports on conditions, and pushed for reforms. After FDR’s death, President Truman appointed her as the first U.S. delegate to the United Nations, where she became known as “First Lady of the World.” Her transformation from a shy, insecure person to a powerful global advocate shows how personal challenges can become sources of strength.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find the quote about human rights near Eleanor’s statue and explain its relevance to current global issues.
HINT: Look for words that connect to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
OBJECTIVE: Locate three symbols around the statue that represent Eleanor’s international work.
HINT: The UN symbol is just one of several international references in this area.
World War II Room Get Ready for the World War II Room : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This powerful space captures the gravity of WWII through dramatic waterfalls, powerful quotes, and sculptures that tell the story of both the war front and home front.
INTERESTING FACT! The chaotic, broken appearance of the walls in this room was intentionally designed to represent the fragmentation of the world during WWII.
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a timeline connecting FDR’s pre-war decisions to major WWII events, discussing how different choices might have altered history.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How did FDR’s statement ‘I hate war’ contrast with his actions leading up to and during WWII?
DISCUSS: Despite saying “I hate war,” FDR secretly began preparing America for war two years before Pearl Harbor, increasing military production and implementing the first peacetime draft.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: FDR’s position on war evolved as global threats increased. He worked to support Britain through Lend-Lease while maintaining official neutrality, walking a delicate political line. The “Arsenal of Democracy” speech showed how he prepared Americans for eventual involvement. This raises questions about when war becomes necessary despite its horrors, and how leaders balance their personal convictions with national security needs. The debate between isolation and intervention remains relevant today in foreign policy discussions.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How did the home front experience during WWII change American society permanently?
DISCUSS: During WWII, American factories converted so quickly to war production that they could build a B-24 bomber every 63 minutes.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The war transformed American society through the massive mobilization of civilians. Women entered the workforce in unprecedented numbers, African Americans demanded equal treatment in defense industries, and technological innovation accelerated rapidly. The GI Bill after the war created the modern middle class by providing education and housing benefits to veterans. These changes laid the groundwork for both the Civil Rights Movement and the Women’s Rights Movement of the following decades.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find evidence of how the memorial represents both military and civilian sacrifices during the war.
HINT: Look for sculptures and quotes that reference the home front as well as the battlefield.
OBJECTIVE: Locate the specific quote that shows FDR’s struggle with the decision to enter the war.
HINT: The most revealing quotes are often placed near the water features.
Disability Rights Area Get Ready for the Disability Rights Area : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This powerful addition to the memorial shows FDR in his wheelchair, added after disability rights advocates fought for a complete representation of FDR’s life story and personal challenges.
INTERESTING FACT! The original memorial didn’t show FDR’s disability, reflecting how he hid it during his presidency. Only two photographs exist of FDR in his wheelchair from his entire presidency.
COOL ACTIVITY! Research how attitudes toward disability rights have evolved from FDR’s time to today, creating a timeline of major disability rights achievements.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why did FDR go to such lengths to hide his disability, and how might his presidency have been different if he served today?
DISCUSS: FDR developed a technique of appearing to “walk” by swiveling his hips while being supported by an aide or one of his sons, and the press agreed never to photograph him looking disabled.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: FDR’s concealment of his disability reflects the intense prejudice and misconceptions about disability in his era. He feared being seen as weak or incapable of leading. Yet, many historians argue that his experience with polio made him a more empathetic leader and influenced his approach to helping others during the Great Depression. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 marked a dramatic shift in attitudes, requiring public spaces to be accessible to all. Consider how this memorial’s later addition of the wheelchair statue represents this evolution in society’s understanding of disability.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How does FDR’s personal struggle with disability connect to his larger message about overcoming fear?
DISCUSS: FDR spent two-thirds of his adult life unable to walk independently, yet he led America through its two greatest crises of the 20th century.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: FDR’s personal battle with polio demonstrated the same themes he preached to the nation: resilience, adaptation, and refusing to be defined by circumstances. His experience at Warm Springs, Georgia, where he established a polio rehabilitation center, showed his commitment to helping others overcome similar challenges. The center became a model for rehabilitation facilities and demonstrated how community support could help people adapt to disabilities. This connection between personal struggle and public service offers powerful lessons about leadership and empathy.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find and document the various accessibility features incorporated into the memorial’s design.
HINT: Look for elements that make the memorial accessible to visitors with different abilities.
OBJECTIVE: Locate the quote that best represents FDR’s philosophy about overcoming personal challenges.
HINT: Consider how the chosen quote might relate to both his disability and his leadership during national crises.
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial:
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: Just a short walk away, this powerful memorial honors another champion of social justice and features inspiring quotes about equality and human rights. View the Parent’s Guide!
Jefferson Memorial: Visible across the Tidal Basin, this neoclassical memorial offers stunning views and connects to themes of democracy and leadership. View the Parent’s Guide!
Korean War Veterans Memorial: A short distance away, this haunting memorial provides a powerful contrast to the WWII themes in the FDR Memorial.
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- “No Ordinary Time” by Doris Kearns Goodwin (for parents and teens)
- “FDR’s Alphabet Soup: New Deal America 1932-1939” by Tonya Bolden (for teens)
- “Who Was Franklin Roosevelt?” by Margaret Frith (for younger visitors)
- Listen to actual FDR Fireside Chats (available on various podcast platforms)
- Watch “The Roosevelt’s: An Intimate History” by Ken Burns (PBS documentary)
- Review the National Park Service’s FDR Memorial App for interactive features and additional historical context
LOCATION SUMMARY
Imagine walking through an outdoor storybook where waterfalls splash, bronze statues come to life, and a presidential puppy waits to greet you! The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial isn’t just a regular park – it’s a magical journey through time where water dances and stories come alive. Did you know there’s even a special statue of the president’s real dog waiting to make friends with young visitors like you?
MORE INFORMATION
DISCOUNT CODE
Free admission to the memorial at all times
For guided tours, check the National Park Service website for special ranger-led programs