Happy Memorial Day, 2026! Many people typically enjoy Memorial Day by spending extra quality time with family and friends, and enjoying the unofficial start of summer. For others, this day is appreciated because it means they get to have a three-day weekend, enabling one to relax and enjoy life a little more. I always enjoy Memorial Day for these reasons, but I also take part of the day to remember those who have served this country and to mourn the loss of those who died in the process. In addition, I always take time every Memorial Day to remember my own loved ones who served this wonderful country. I would struggle to think of any person more honorable than someone willing to serve their country. I have had six family members who have served in the U.S. military, four of whom served during World War II. My grandfather was one of those individuals, and he served this country through active duty in Nazi Germany during World War II. I thank the good Lord that he came back, and that I actually got to spend quality time with him almost daily for the first 25 years of my life. He was not only an honorable American, but he was an amazing grandfather to me, as well as a wonderful mentor and a good friend. I am also thankful that the World War II Memorial was created to honor those who fought in this terrible war. World War II lasted from September of 1939 to September of 1945, so the creation of this memorial in 2004 was long overdue. The World War II Memorial is located in Washington, D.C., between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. It was dedicated to Americans who served during World War II, both in the armed forces and as civilians. The memorial consists of 56 granite pillars, decorated with bronze laurel wreaths, with each representing a U.S. state or territory. The memorial also has a pair of triumphal arches for the Atlantic and Pacific theaters, all surrounding an oval plaza and fountain. On its short axis is a memorial wall of 4,048 gold stars, with each star representing 100 of the Americans who died in this war. Unfortunately, I also have to highlight something that was negative about my visit to this location as well. During the second Trump administration, numerous government organizations have had drastic cuts in funding from a "chainsaw cutting mentality," which eliminated about a quarter million federal employees with the assistance of Trump's cronies at DOGE. The National Park Service (NPS) was one of these government agencies that had drastic cuts, and the World War II Memorial is maintained by NPS. Sadly, I could see the negative effects of these actions in three key areas while here: (1) many nearby restrooms were not adequately maintained, (2) the primary fountain and other water-filled parts of the World War II Memorial were not operational, and (3) the adjacent Infinity Pool was quite dirty. Although this was a negative during my specific visit, and poorly represents the respect that this location deserves, I'm sure that the World War II Memorial will be returned to its pristine state of honor and respect once we have a new/better President. If you are in the Washington, D.C. area, I highly encourage you to make this one of the places you visit. While you are here, it will be an excellent opportunity to pay your respects to the 16 million Americans who served during World War II, with over 400 thousand being our men who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. read more

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The National World War II Memorial is one of the most powerful and beautifully designed memorials in Washington, DC. Standing in the center of history surrounded by the fountains, pillars, wreaths, and tribute walls gives an overwhelming sense of honor, sacrifice, and patriotism. Seeing the Tennessee and Oklahoma pillars personally hit differently -- especially coming from roots connected to both Southern culture and Oklahoma history. Every section of the memorial tells a story, and the "Here We Mark the Price of Freedom" wall is deeply moving in person. The memorial itself is massive, clean, peaceful, and incredibly well maintained. The fountains and open-air layout make it feel both reflective and grand at the same time. It is one of those places where photos simply do not capture the full emotion or scale of the experience. Perfect stop while visiting the National Mall, especially for history lovers, veterans, military families, and anyone wanting to truly appreciate the sacrifices made during World War II. The views, architecture, and atmosphere are unforgettable. And the weather? Absolutely perfect DC skies for memorial photos. Your bright colors against the granite and blue skies made these pictures stand out beautifully read more

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The WWII Memorial is a beautiful honor to the millions of Americans who supported WWII, including those who served on the home front, and the over 400,000 Americans in the U.S. Armed Forces who paid the ultimate sacrifice. The memorial sits between the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, with the Reflecting Pool between it and the Lincoln Memorial. From a photography perspective, the WWII memorial is one of the best outdoor muses on The National Mall. The multiple water fountains, water displays, and quotes throughout the memorial, all of which are representative of the period, are beautiful, thought-provoking, and inspiring. The Rainbow Pool, the most iconic fountain and centerpiece of the memorial, is beautiful. Granite columns enclose the memorial and each column represents each U.S. state and territory at the time of WWII. Often you'll see visitors taking photos in front of the state they live in or represent. I recommend exercising patience as the walkways are narrow and many photo ops occur throughout the day. The wall of gold stars, 4,048 in total, in which each star represents 100 American service members who lost their lives during the war, is beautiful. Also keep in mind this is a war memorial, so be respectful of the water features and gold stars; honor this area and do not play or allow children to walk in the Rainbow Pool. You can certainly sit and put your feet in the water, but you may not walk, swim, or play in the fountain. Be respectful of the floral arrangements that are common occurrences on commemorative U.S. holidays. In my opinion, the best time to visit is at dusk or night when the memorial is illuminated and tourist traffic is lighter. It is also an epic photo op to capture the fountain with the Lincoln Memorial in the backdrop. A must-see landmark when visiting The National Mall. read more

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Fairly new memorial, opening to the public in 2004, the WW 2 memorial is truly one of the most beautiful in DC and the nation. What a tribute to those brave men and women who fought. The fountains and pillars set this monument apart and offer the perfect setting for deep reflection. After visiting the towering Washington monument I like to come here and simply take it all in. Refreshing and emotional at the same time. read more

World War II Memorial - WW II Memorial - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The World War II Memorial was Awesome, if you live or visit Washington D.C., this is a must see Memorial. I had visited this Memorial several times. read more

World War II Memorial - ARLINGTON - DBM Photo Art 1 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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This memorial is absolutely stunning and filled with so much symbolism. It is a definite must see stop when touring the monuments. read more

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Can I just tell you this was my favorite stop on our dc trip. What a great tribute to our armed forces. Beautiful stones and beautiful water. Everyone in the area was respectful of the memorial and it was so nice to see so many people enjoying it. read more

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This is an extensive memorial with a lot to view from all angles both coming and going. The memorial features a circular set up with a water feature in the middle , quotes, and listing of those memorialized. read more

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National World War II Memorial - This large memorial left a strong yet very balanced impression on me. It is monumental, but not excessive--rather dignified and thoughtfully designed. Water elements, symbolism, and architecture create a space that conveys respect and reverence. It is a place where you become aware of the scale of history and the sacrifices that shaped our present world. Unfortunately, the fountain was not yet in operation at the time of our visit. read more

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An amazing memorial/display. It almost reminds you of the Colosseum type setting from Roman times, with its circular and sloping design. One of the visually aesthetic memorials in the D.C. area. read more

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We were able to visit the WWII Memorial near sunset and at the end of a very long day. The overall aesthetic is beautiful with all of the states and territories represented, the Atlantic and Pacific theaters noted, a dynamic water feature as a centerpiece, and a series of artistic plaques placed along the walkway depicting the course of the war. I hope to return soon and leisurely explore it further and highly recommend it as one of the top DC places to visit. read more

World War II Memorial - WWII Memorial with Indiana represented - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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This Memorial is definitely worth a visit when you are in DC. You can include it in a day that you visit the Washington monument and the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials as they're all within reach of each other. I learned so much at the World War II Memorial. It was quite epic and a visit I will not forget.. read more

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This town is really filled with so many wonderful things. It's pretty darn delightful that so many are free . Today was perfect day to enjoy being outside and walking through the park & looking at the amazing design of this memorial. So beautiful and touching. The water feature was beautiful in the size of the structure was impressive. I'm so glad to enjoy these things. Very beautiful and there is a bathroom very very close by if you need it! I look forward to coming back! read more

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I'm so sad I didn't take more pictures but what a beautiful memorial. I love the part where there is supposed to be to be water in the middle and there is a sign you can sit down and put your feet in just don't walk through the water that's so nice I feel like what a nice peaceful tribute. Must visit. read more

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Very solemn memorial acknowledging the Pacific & Atlantic fronts. It commemorates the service of 16 million members of the Armed Forces of the US that support of countless millions on the home front, and the ultimate sacrifice of 405,399 Americans. On May 29, 2004, a four-day "grand reunion" of veterans on the National Mall culminated in the dedication of this tribute to the legacy of "The Greatest Generation." Twenty-four bronze bas-relief panels flank the ceremonial entrance. To many, these panels stir memories as they tell the story of America's experience in the war. Granite columns representing each U.S. state and territory at the time of World War II ring an impressive pool with water shooting high into the air. Quotes, references to theaters, campaigns, and battles, and two massive victory pavilions chronicle the efforts Americans undertook to win the war. A wall of 4,048 gold stars reminds all of the supreme sacrifice made by over 400,000 Americans to make that victory possible. Visitors can also search the World War II Registry, a computerized database honoring Americans who helped win the war, either overseas or on our home front. read more

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I lied and said Lincoln was my favorite. The WWII memorial is actually my favorite. During the summer, I was a TA for a summer program that brought high schoolers to DC. We'd always have a great time on monument night when we'd get to visit all the different monuments by bus (necessary during a DC summer!!) WWII is fun because of the pillars for each of the states. We'd get to see our students find their home state and I always loved getting a photo next to Hawaii and California- the two places I get to call home. read more

A solemn and beautiful tribute to the titanic sacrifice made for the price of freedom.  The Rainbow Pool is a calming focal point, surrounded by grand pillars of states and territories that fought in WWII. Numerous gold stars on the Freedom Wall represent the many Americans who lost their lives. I recommend visiting in the evening for a more stunning and impactful sight. As the sun comes down, the lights illuminating the fountain and stones come on. At night, the memorial visually evokes themes of the light of freedom amidst a dark struggle. read more

World War II Memorial - A visual reminder of the light of freedom amidst a dark struggle. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Tony and I celebrated his 61st birthday by going to Washington DC. One of the many memorials we visited was the World War 2 Memorial that is located at the opposite end of the Reflection Pool from the Lincoln Memorial Tony and I walked 12 miles this particular Saturday as we toured around the city on foot. The Memorial was very nice and had a Fountain located in the center. There was a lot of tourist and the day was gorgeous weather very warm with a nice breeze off the Potomac River. This is a lovely city that I enjoy! Tony's first trip, my 10th!!! Highly recommend and it's Free to enjoy! read more

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It's my favorite memorial. It's one that I visit every time I'm at the National Mall. I tend to spend more time at the Pacific end of it while thinking of my dad. He was 18 years old when he fought in the Battle of Okinawa. He never talked about it, but it clearly was never forgotten in his mind. It still haunted him even at the end of his life. How could anyone forget? The National WWII Memorial is very impressive, and very fitting to a generation who is humble and proud. Those who have loved ones who fought in WWII know that they never talked about it, so it was never about recognition. They volunteered because it was the right thing to do at the time. It was about duty, honor, and sacrifice. The families they left behind also made sacrifices by working in the factories and supporting the war effort however way they could. That's why this tribute to them is so appropriate. It's not over the top, but instead shows unity and structure. You can see that in the 56 pillars that represent each US state, territory, and commonwealth. The two arches represent the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of war. The 4,048 gold stars on the Freedom Wall each represent a 100 (per star) of these brave Americans who died in the war effort. The design was well planned and cohesive. My only disappointment is that it took so long to honor these Americans. Those from that generation who are still around can enjoy it, but many of them (like my father) didn't live to see it. He knew it was being built but was unable to travel due to ailments. It's a shame because I know he would have wanted to see it. It's still nice (as a family member visiting the memorial) to see that they are being honored in a sophisticated way. Even if it's a little late for some. read more

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Every time I visit this memorial I see something new I didn't see the last time. But one thing stays the same, it always takes my breath away. It was a chilly kinda wet day in April so it wasn't packed. In my opinion, this memorial is one of the most beautiful memorials in DC. It's one to provoke some deep emotions as you think about all that happened in WW2. There's a sign to let you know you can dip your feet in the reflection pool while sitting on the edge but no one is allowed to swim in it. At night, the memorial is lit up and it looks spectacular! read more

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Big monument in the center of the mall and one you should absolutely visit. It honors the service members from all of the states and territories and the battles in the Atlantic and pacific battlefronts. The water features are beautiful and it's an important memorial for those who served read more

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Beautiful memorial, full of history and gorgeous details that makes you wanting to stay for hours to contemplate it fully. read more

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This place was so serene and beautiful like all the other places in the surrounding area. I tried to read everything and just appreciate it all. As a child of a military family, I remember all the sacrifices made and deeply appreciate it. read more

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There are quite a lot of memorials in this area, This is definitely one of the biggest & nicest one to see while visiting. It pays great honor & respect to such a hard time in history, it's a beautiful memorial where people can come pay their respects. read more

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My favorite war memorial, you can spend at least an hour here walking around and enjoying the sights and symbolism. If you are here for photography, bring a long lens as well as your wide angle kit. The views across the reflecting pond are excellent. Many times you will see honor flights with a group of veterans here. If you get a chance, say hello and thank them for their service. Most of the time, they really appreciate it are really interesting to talk to. read more

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Smiling thinking of family and friends who served in WW2. Most of them have passed away, but I'm grateful for their service in this conflict. Without a doubt the greatest generation. I've visited this before, but today with the cherry blossoms close by was special. Thinking of these folks, am a grateful man, that these patriots did what had to be done. They faced struggles in the Atlantic and Pacific theatres, and I like how this memorial shows that clearly. Walking around this hat off, it was an honor to pay my respects. So many died, were wounded, or faced PTSD due to the evil of Hitler, Hirohito, and more. This is an incredible shrine to their sacrifice. I would like to thank the late Senator Dole and others, who made this happen. This is a wonderful way to appreciate the service of men and women in this years long conflict. This is unabashedly patriotic, with the American flag and fountains. What really gets your attention is the wall of stars. These represent those who gave all. Also each state has a marker with a monumental wreath. If visiting DC is in your plans, by all means go here, as it is an experience you won't forget. That's the point and five stars, for how thoughtful this memorial is. read more

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The memorial is located in the National Mall. It's a tribute to the 16 million men and women that served in the armed forces and the support of millions more on the home front. It's free to visit and is open 24/7. You can't go wrong with visiting it in the daytime or nighttime. At night, it's worth checking out since everything is lit up. Take the time you look at all of the inscriptions, the Atlantic theater bas relief sculptures, and the Pacific theater bas relief sculptures. You can snap some great pictures here, it didn't get crowded when I was there. read more

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This is a beautiful and well designed memorial to remember those that served, honor those who fell, and recognize the victory in World War II. I usually will swing by whenever I'm in town for the Marine Corps Marathon. It is located in between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. It is on the eastern end of the Reflecting Pool. There's a fountain in the middle. If you're visiting during the summer or when the weather is warm, please note that you're permitted to sit and dip your feet in the water, but you should not be walking, wading, or swimming in it. read more

World War II Memorial - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The World War II Memorial is a gorgeous memorial that's located at the end of the reflecting pool across from The Lincoln Memorial (near The Washington Monument). It had a fountain in the middle and is flanked by large arches for the Atlantic and Pacific theaters and smaller pillars for all of the states/territories. It's shocking to think that this memorial was only completed in 2004 as it feels much older and feels like it was always there. It's one of my favorite memorials and one that I would visit every time I was in D.C. read more

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This is one of the iconic memorials that represent one of the biggest time periods in American history. Located on the National Mall, the World War II memorial is located right in front of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool across from the Lincoln Memorial. Compared to the other memorials this one is gigantic. There are two sides of the memorial dedicated to both Pacific and Atlantic theaters. There's also the Price of Freedom which holds 4,048 gold stars representing one hundred American service personnel who died or remain missing from the war. Even if each star represents 100 people, the 4,048 stars just paints a crazy picture of just how many lives were impacted by the war, let alone the families of those lives. It's a beautiful homage to those who sacrificed themselves for our country. read more

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This place seems kind of unassuming from the outside but once through the threshold this place is big. This was one of our favorite things that we got to see while in DC. You can spend some time here reading and dipping your feet in the water and just relaxing and reflecting. I think this is a beautiful tribute to all the people that lost their lives in World War II. read more

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The World War 2 memorial is one of the nicest monuments/memorials in all of DC, in my opinion. We went at dusk and it was just gorgeous. The memorial is thoughtfully designed and flowed really well. I thought it was so peaceful spending time there. We stayed a good amount of time walking around. Even though this memorial is newer, it feels like it was always there or at least, always meant to be there. It just fits really perfectly. I wished I had brought a good quality camera as the vantage point and the views down both ends of the mall were spectacular. On the night we were there, the sun had just set and the moon was rising. read more

The World War II Memorial is another beautiful stop that you must take while walking around the National Mall. It is conveniently right in between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, so it will probably be an easy walk from wherever you are. There's something about seeing the giant 'Atlantic' and 'Pacific' signs, as well as every state and territory in between that shows the unity of our country during this historic event. It's a beautiful way to honor all of the soldiers who fought and sacrificed everything they had for our country. read more

World War II Memorial - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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This is such a beautifully done memorial. I think it's hard to explain because it's so much more real when you go in person, you really do feel the heaviness of what it represents, but also how much it deserves to be remembered and all the brave soldiers who fought for us deserve this. There's a pillar for each of the States as well as US territories, and it's worth it to take your time and walk around to all of them. You also have a great view of the nearby Washington & Lincoln monuments, and even the Capitol Building. If you also want somewhere peaceful to sit, there is lots of seating around this memorial, and something about being still and commemorating the events and heroes of World War II, while sitting in such a history-filled city as DC, it really hits home but is so cool all in the same moment. If you're already in the area and walking around the National Mall then you definitely need to stop here for at least a little while. It's right in the middle of the action so it's easy to get to, and like I said- so worth it. read more

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This memorial sits between the Washington Monument and the Reflecting Pool. It is beautifully laid out with all different sides representing parts of the world and numerous sayings engraved into the stone that surround the area. There is a fountain in the center where many will throw coins and two sides are lined with pillars that list each of the different states and areas that are represented here. read more

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If you are in DC this is an absolute must see and a beautiful Memorial for all the lives lost. Featuring several pillars and separated between Atlantic and the Pacific side of all the countries and states represented in the fight. Bring your camera as there are many spots to take absolutely breathtaking pictures. read more

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Our tour guide explained this Memorial, with the Atlantic and Pacific campaigns, with the States getting feature, all around the Memorial. There is a lot going on here, but WWII had a lot going on- it's a fittingly complicated mix of structures and water. So many lives were sacrificed in this war to guarantee our freedom, if not the freedom of the Western world. I'm sure most of us had a relative who fought or served during WWII, and the Memorial has the ability to speak to the gratitude of current generations. We visited at night and I really love the play of light on the water and columns at night, and the circular walk. Equally great is the "endless pool" view of the Lincoln Memorial here. Definitely worth a walk through, a quiet moment. read more

World War II Memorial - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I've never been to this Memorial site before until recently and I would have to say you should come and visit this place. The person that designed this had a lot of thought and care into this project and it makes you feel like you should be respectful when you are here. It looks like they put every state around a circular area. They also have a water thing in front of the circular area. I'm not good at describing this place but I did take photos! It's really beautiful here and seems so peaceful! If you are visiting the DC area this would be a great stop. read more

World War II Memorial - So true - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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If you're visiting D.C. to see the monuments/memorials, you'll for sure pass by the World War 2 Memorial. It's located right in front of the Reflecting Pool so you'll pass if you're coming from the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial or the other way around. It's a huge space that has a Pacific and Atlantic side, holding 4,048 gold stars. There's a fountain in the middle that completes this beautiful memorial. read more

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This is a gem on the National Mall. We visited on a hot, sunny day and enjoyed the fountain portion of the memorial a lot. It's fun to look around for your state(s) and also do some people watching. Great view of the Washington monument in the background, too. read more

World War II Memorial - Memorial and fountain, with Washington monument in the background - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia