Vietnam Veterans Memorial
A stark, reflective granite wall bearing the names of over 58,000 fallen and missing U.S. service members from the Vietnam War.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful reflection
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Best Time
Peaceful reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stark, reflective granite wall bearing the names of over 58,000 fallen and missing U.S. service members from the Vietnam War.
"This beautiful and haunting reminder of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the face of evil."
Reflective Surfaces
See your reflection in the polished granite walls, a powerful visual connection to the names. :iphone:
Volunteer Assistance
Helpful volunteers can assist in finding names and provide historical context. :raised_hands:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Wall
National Mall
Two black granite walls inscribed with over 58,000 names of fallen and missing soldiers. A deeply moving tribute.
The Three Servicemen Statue
Near The Wall
Bronze statues of three soldiers, adding a human element to the memorial's solemn atmosphere.
Vietnam Women's Memorial
Near The Wall
Honors the service of women, many of whom were nurses, during the Vietnam War.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Finding Names & Support
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reflective Surfaces
See your reflection in the polished granite walls, a powerful visual connection to the names. :iphone:
Volunteer Assistance
Helpful volunteers can assist in finding names and provide historical context. :raised_hands:
Respectful Atmosphere
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor to honor the solemnity of the site. :pray:
Evening Illumination
Consider visiting in the evening for unique lighting and special awareness events. :flashlight:
Tips
from all over the internet
Reflective Surfaces
See your reflection in the polished granite walls, a powerful visual connection to the names. :iphone:
Volunteer Assistance
Helpful volunteers can assist in finding names and provide historical context. :raised_hands:
Respectful Atmosphere
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor to honor the solemnity of the site. :pray:
Evening Illumination
Consider visiting in the evening for unique lighting and special awareness events. :flashlight:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is widely praised for its profound emotional impact and striking design. Visitors consistently highlight the moving experience of seeing the names inscribed on the reflective granite walls and the solemn atmosphere of the site. While some find the sheer scale of loss overwhelming, the memorial is considered a vital place for remembrance and reflection.
"The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. is one of the most visited and moving monuments in the United States, honoring those who served in the Vietnam War. It is located at National Mall, near the Lincoln Memorial,dedicated in November 13, 1982. It was designed by Maya Lin, a 21-year-old architecture student at Yale, it was controversy at the beginning, but became iconic.
It honors members of the U.S. armed forces who fought in the Vietnam War, those who died in service, and those missing in action (MIA).
The two black granite walls, each 246 feet 9 inches long, set in a V-shape, engraved with the names of over 58,000 servicemen and women who died or went missing.
The Three Servicemen Statue – A bronze statue by Frederick Hart depicting three soldiers, added in 1984 to complement the Wall.
The Vietnam Women’s Memorial – Dedicated in 1993, honoring women (many nurses) who served.
The Wall’s shape points toward the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, linking it to the nation’s history.
It's an open air Memorial, you can visit any time."
daniel zhang
"There was a quiet reverence while walking through this area, it was deeply appreciated. I was there to find a name for my friend; her husband passed in Viet Nam. The volunteers were helpful and offered historical documentation about the Wall."
Roxie Quick
"This beautiful and hunting reminder of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the face of evil. This monument is just a small thank you to all of the brave men, and women never came back home. I highly recommend visiting and paying a little respect."
Jason Ross
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located on the National Mall, near the Lincoln Memorial. It's easily accessible by Metro (Smithsonian or Federal Triangle stations are closest), bus, or on foot if you're exploring other D.C. monuments. Parking in the vicinity can be challenging, so public transport is often recommended.
Limited metered parking is available along the National Mall, but it fills up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider using parking garages in nearby areas or relying on public transportation for a more convenient experience.
Yes, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is an open-air memorial and is accessible 24 hours a day. Many visitors find the memorial particularly moving when illuminated at night.
The memorial grounds are generally accessible for wheelchairs, with paved pathways. The V-shaped wall slopes gently into the earth, allowing for easy navigation.
The closest Metro stations are Smithsonian (Orange, Blue, and Silver lines) and Federal Triangle (Orange and Blue lines). From either station, it's a short walk to the memorial.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is free and open to the public. You do not need to purchase tickets to enter or explore the memorial grounds.
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There are no set opening or closing times, allowing for visits at any hour.
There is no entrance fee for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. It is a public monument dedicated to honoring service members.
Yes, visitors can bring bags, but large backpacks or luggage may be subject to security checks. It's advisable to carry only essentials to ensure a smooth visit.
Photography is generally permitted at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. However, visitors are asked to be respectful and avoid intrusive photography, especially during moments of quiet reflection.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, allowing time to walk the length of the wall, find names, and reflect. Some may spend longer if they are searching for specific individuals or attending an event.
A memorial directory is posted near the entrances/exits of the wall to help visitors locate specific names. Volunteers are also often available to assist with this.
The V-shape of the wall is symbolic. It begins at ground level, slopes into the earth, and rises back up, representing the wound of war and the healing process. It also points towards the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.
Restroom facilities are available on the National Mall, typically located near major monuments. It's advisable to check the National Park Service website for the most current locations.
Yes, visitors are welcome to leave flowers or small mementos at the base of the wall. These items are respectfully maintained by the National Park Service.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late evening offer the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer crowds. The reflective quality of the granite is particularly striking during these times.
Yes, many visitors find it moving to see their reflection in the polished granite walls, superimposed over the names. This is a common and poignant photographic subject.
No, drone usage is strictly prohibited in and around the National Mall and its monuments, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, for safety and security reasons.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for evening shots. Wide-angle lenses can capture the scale of the wall, while telephoto lenses can focus on specific names or details.
The V-shape of the wall itself offers many compelling angles. Standing at the apex and looking down the length of the wall, or capturing the reflection of the sky, are popular choices.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Families with Children
Focus on the respectful atmosphere and the idea of remembrance. Encourage them to be quiet and observant. The reflective nature of the wall can be fascinating, and you can discuss how it shows their own image alongside the names. The Three Servicemen Statue can also be a point of connection, showing figures of soldiers. Keep explanations age-appropriate and be prepared for questions.
Veterans and Families of Veterans
Consider attending commemorative events or vigils if your visit coincides with them, as these can offer a profound sense of community and shared remembrance.
The presence of volunteers, many of whom are veterans, can also provide a unique opportunity for connection and understanding. Take your time, allow for reflection, and connect with the stories etched into the wall. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Design and Symbolism of The Wall
Lin's design was initially controversial, with some critics finding its abstract nature unsuitable for a war memorial. However, it has since become one of the most visited and revered monuments in the United States. The sheer number of names inscribed on the wall—over 58,000—is a stark and somber reminder of the human cost of the Vietnam War. The chronological listing of names, from the first casualty in 1959 to the last in 1975, allows visitors to trace the progression of the conflict.
Beyond the main wall, the memorial complex includes The Three Servicemen Statue by Frederick Hart, added in 1984, which depicts three weary soldiers, and the Vietnam Women's Memorial dedicated in 1993, honoring the service of women, many of whom were nurses. These additions provide further layers of recognition and remembrance, ensuring a more comprehensive tribute to all who served.
+1Visiting with Purpose: Finding Names and Support
Beyond the directory, the presence of volunteers at the memorial is invaluable. These individuals, often veterans themselves or family members of those honored, offer not only assistance in locating names but also historical context and a compassionate ear. Their willingness to share stories and provide support can transform a visit into a profoundly meaningful experience.
For those seeking to understand the broader context of the memorial, resources are available to learn about the Vietnam War and the individuals whose names are etched into the granite. The memorial serves not just as a marker of loss, but as an educational site that encourages reflection on sacrifice and service.
![Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial - Aerial view of Washington, D.C., showing the FDR Memorial in the foreground at Cherry Blossom Festival time. Color transparency by Carol M. Highsmith, [between 1980 and 2006]. Library of Congress Prints & Photographs Division. https://www.loc.gov/resource/highsm.14351/](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.unsplash.com%2Fphoto-1585128993280-9456c19c987d%3Fcrop%3Dentropy%26cs%3Dtinysrgb%26fit%3Dmax%26fm%3Djpg%26ixid%3DM3w3ODc2Nzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxGcmFua2xpbiUyMERlbGFubyUyMFJvb3NldmVsdCUyME1lbW9yaWFsfGVufDB8MHx8fDE3NTg1MzExMjF8MA%26ixlib%3Drb-4.1.0%26q%3D80%26w%3D1080&w=3840&q=75)
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