John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

The Basics

As a prominent city landmark, the John F. Kennedy Memorial is included in many Dallas sightseeing tours. Those with a particular interest in the JFK assassination can opt for a themed tour that includes visits to Dealey Plaza, where the president was killed; the memorial; Grassy Knoll; the home of assassin Lee Harvey Oswald; the historic Texas Movie Theater in Oak Cliff; and the Sixth Floor Museum.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The JFK Memorial is a must-see for first-time visitors and JFK history buffs.

• Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.

• The JFK Memorial Plaza is accessible to wheelchair users.

How to Get There

The JFK Memorial is situated in downtown Dallas, a block away from Dealey Plaza in John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. Union Station and West End Station are close by.

When to Get There

To fully appreciate the memorial and its symbolism, plan to visit after a trip to the nearby Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. Don’t miss seeing the memorial at night, when light fixtures in the ground create the illusion that the light itself is supporting the cenotaph.

The Man Behind the Memorial

American architect Philip Johnson was chosen to design the memorial, and he opted for an open tomb design to symbolize the freedom of JFK’s spirit. The walls of the roofless room were built from 72 white concrete columns that seemingly float 29 inches (74 centimeters) above the ground. This invisible force that seems to hold the memorial together was inspired by the magnetic charisma of John F. Kennedy.

What is the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza in Dallas?

The John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza in Dallas is an open-air structure commemorating former President John F. Kennedy. Located near the site of his 1963 assassination, the JFK Memorial Plaza is a large, white-walled concrete structure that is illuminated at night. A granite marker with the president’s name is also present.

What can visitors expect to see at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza?

Visitors to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza should expect to find the white square monument and a small granite marker. The site isn’t extensive, nor is it considered an exhibit. Rather, it’s more of an artistic memorial site that can be viewed in conjunction with other JFK landmarks nearby.

Is there parking available near the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza?

Yes, public parking is available near the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. There is a paid parking lot at the corner of Commerce Street and S. Market Street. Another parking lot is across the street near the JFK Discovery Tour attraction. There’s also a parking lot at the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza.

Are there any nearby attractions or points of interest near the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza?

Yes, there are multiple attractions and points of interest near the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza, including those which relate to JFK’s assassination. Dealey Plaza, the assassination site, is one block from the plaza, as is the Grassy Knoll and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza exhibition center.

Is the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza is accessible for visitors with disabilities. This open-air attraction is accessible for wheelchair users, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is no charge to access this memorial site, but it is outdoors, so prepare appropriately for current weather conditions.

What is the history behind the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza?

The John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza was designed by architect Philip Johnson and dedicated to the former president in 1970. From its cenotaph concept to its illusion-like structure, it was designed to reflect the free spirit and charisma of JFK. The memorial influenced the creation of the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza.

Ways to explore

The John F. Kennedy Memorial is among the most notable landmarks within the Dallas Downtown Historic District, and many sightseeing tours include a visit here. Explore the city on a walking, bike, or hop-on hop-off bus tour, or find out more about the JFK assassination on a themed tour that combines a visit to the memorial with key sites such as Dealey Plaza, the Sixth Floor Museum, the home of assassin Lee Harvey Oswald, and the Texas Movie Theater in Oak Cliff, where Oswald was arrested.

Accessibility

The plaza is fully accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and those with limited mobility

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses

What to wear

Weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

Keep noise to a minimum and be respectful of others when visiting this place of memorial

Amenities

There are public restrooms just west of the plaza

Address 

John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza is located on Main Street in downtown Dallas, one block east of Dealey Plaza. It’s easy to reach on foot, via public transport, or by car.

Driving

Take exit 429B off Interstate 35 East (aka Stemmons Freeway) toward Commerce Street/Elm Street and pass through Dealey Plaza to reach John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. There are several paid parking lots nearby.

Public transportation

The closest DART station to John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza is West End, about a 3-minute walk away.

Best times to visit

Come in the early morning or late afternoon to experience the memorial at its quietest, or pass by at night when the cenotaph is dramatically illuminated.

Best days to visit

Downtown Dallas’ sights are usually busiest on weekends and holidays, so dodge the crowds with a midweek visit. If you want to combine the memorial with a trip to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, avoid Mondays and Tuesdays when the museum is closed.

Best months to visit

As summers in Dallas can get seriously hot, plan a spring or fall visit to experience the best sightseeing weather.

Special events

Expect a poignant gathering to commemorate the anniversary of JFK’s assassination on November 22.