Reflecting Pool Becomes Unlikely Tourist Attraction Due to Algae

The Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial has become an unexpected tourist hotspot, largely due to its current algae and discoloration issues. Comedian Josh Johnson highlighted this phenomenon on The Daily Show, describing the pool as ‘the first breakout hit of the summer.’

Johnson humorously compared visiting the pool to opting for a unique tourist experience over traditional destinations. ‘Hey, kids, remember you wanted to go to Disneyland? Instead, we’re going to go see the world’s largest kombucha!’ Johnson quipped. His comedic take suggests that the pool’s condition, while not ideal, has surprisingly drawn significant public interest.

He further pointed out the contrast between past and present gatherings at the Reflecting Pool. ‘The last time we collected this many people around the Reflecting Pool was for civil rights. People were like, “We must come out to support Dr. King.” Sixty years later, we’re like, “A slimy pool? This I gotta see!”’ Johnson commented, reflecting on the pool’s unexpected appeal.

Johnson also noted the challenges of maintaining a shallow pool in hot weather, ‘Now anyone who’s ever owned a swimming pool or a fish tank or a bong that they never wash, will not be surprised that there’s algae in the pool. A shallow pool like this, with a dark bottom in hot weather, is particularly hard to keep clean.’

In a playful critique, Johnson remarked on political connections to the pool’s condition. ‘The lesson here is Trump, you got to wait until after you do something to flex. If you had never made a big deal out of the pool, no one would have noticed. Trump basically shot a buzzer-beating game-winning shot, turned around and threw his hands up in the air to celebrate, and then instead of going in, it missed and killed a baby duckling.’

Johnson’s humor captures the ironic situation where the Reflecting Pool, typically a serene landmark, has turned into a quirky attraction, catching the attention of both locals and visitors alike.