Thing to Do

Panoramic Views at the US Marine Corps War Memorial

George Washington Memorial Parkway

US Marine Corps War Memorial

George Washington Memorial Parkway

"In honor and in memory of the men of the United States Marine Corps who have given their lives to their country since November 10, 1775." US Marine Corps War Memorial

US Marine Corps War Memorial at dusk.
US Marine Corps War Memorial at dusk.

Chris James

Based on an iconic image of the second flag-raising on the island of Iwo Jima during World War II, the US Marine Corps War Memorial is dedicated to "the Marine dead of all wars and their comrades of other services who fell fighting beside them."

Thirty-two foot high figures are shown raising a 60-foot bronze flagpole. The flag at the top of the pole flies at full mast 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by presidential proclamation.

From Arlington Ridge, experience a panoramic view of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Capitol Building behind the US Marine Corps War Memorial against the Washington, DC skyline.

Scenic Views

  • US Marine Corps War Memorial.
    US Marine Corps War Memorial

    From Arlington Ridge, experience a panoramic view of iconic DC architecture behind the US Marine Corps War Memorial.

  • Fountain at Meridian Hill Park.
    Meridian Hill Park

    Meridian Hill Park offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation and fresh air.

  • View of the Tidal Basin from the Washington Monument
    Tidal Basin

    One of the best places to view the Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial is from the top of the Washington Monument

  • People walking on Georgetown Waterfront Path.
    Georgetown Waterfront Park

    Georgetown Waterfront Park stretches along the banks of the Potomac River from 31st Street NW to the Key Bridge.

  • Exterior day view of the Old Post Office building.
    Old Post Office Tower

    Find a new perspective at the top of the Old Post Office Tower.

  • Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial.
    Arlington House

    Gaze across the river that once divided us, from the steps of Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial.

  • A young visitor dressed up as Frederick Douglass
    Frederick Douglass Home

    Talk to a ranger, tour Frederick Douglass's home or walk the grounds for a sweeping view of Washington D.C.

  • Aerial view of the National Mall.
    National Mall and Memorial Parks

    Attend a Ranger Program, paddle in the Tidal Basin, or dive into history at memorials and monuments on the National Mall.

  • Cyclists on the Mount Vernon Trail across from Capital Hill.
    Mount Vernon Trail

    A run, walk, or cycle alongside the Potomac River offers uninterrupted views of Washington, D.C.'s skyline.

Last updated: November 20, 2023