Visit the National Park for Free on Martin Luther King Day Monday.
In addition to Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday marks the start of a week in which the country will hold its breath ahead of the president’s inauguration and potential unrest. In other words, this is the perfect time to reflect on King’s work, including his peaceful approach to injustice.
While this weekend (and next week) is not the best time to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington DC , there are many other parks where you can learn about his life and legacy in the civil rights movement. or take part in a ministry in his honor. And on Monday, you can visit any national park in the United States for free to celebrate King’s birthday. Here’s what you need to know.
How to visit the national park for free on MLK Day
Each year, the National Park Service waives admission fees to all of its properties, including parks and other historical and cultural sites, for six days a year. Monday, January 19th, will be the first of these 2021 free days. There are five more this year, so mark your calendars:
- April 17: First day of National Parks Week.
- August 4: Anniversary of the American Environment Act.
- August 25: National Park Service Birthday
- September 25: National Day of State Lands.
- November 11: Veterans Day
If you want to visit a park or historic site where you can learn more about King, here are some tips:
- Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park , Georgia
- Selma to Montgomery National Historical Trail , Alabama
- Birmingham National Civil Rights Monument, Alabama
Of course, keep in mind that the pandemic is still ongoing , so be sure to check the park’s or historic site’s website before planning your trip, as some parts (like the interior) may be closed.
It has also become a tradition to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day in ministry – and the National Park Service has many opportunities to do so .