A reflecting pool, also called a reflection pool, is a water feature found in gardens, parks, and at memorial sites. It usually consists of a shallow pool of water, undisturbed by fountain jets, for a reflective surface.

What is the purpose of the Reflecting Pool?

Reflecting pools are water features that generally do not have fish, plants, waterfalls, or fountains. Their main purpose is to create a scenic reflection and they can be designed to fit into formal or natural garden styles.

Can you swim in the Reflecting Pool?

Swimming has never been permitted in the Reflecting Pool, but city children like this 1926 group enjoyed the cool waters anyway. There were very few public pools in Washington, DC, at the time. Between the mid 1920s and 1935, city officials operated three small public pools on the Washington Monument Grounds.