The Vietnam Veterans Memorial: A Haunting Tribute
Explore the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C., a poignant tribute honoring the courage and sacrifice of American soldiers during the Vietnam War.
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. stands as a solemn tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of American soldiers during the Vietnam War. This iconic memorial features a striking black granite wall inscribed with the names of over 58,000 fallen soldiers, making it a poignant place of reflection and remembrance for visitors. Surrounded by lush parkland, it draws tourists from around the world seeking to honor those who served and to connect with history in an impactful way.
A brief summary to Vietnam Veterans Memorial
- 5 Henry Bacon Dr NW, Washington, Northwest Washington, District of Columbia, 20002, US
- +1202-426-6841
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for a quieter, more reflective experience.
- Bring a piece of paper and a pencil to make a rubbing of a loved one’s name from the wall.
- Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the memorial.
- Take time to explore the surrounding park and other nearby memorials for a comprehensive historical experience.
Getting There
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Public Transportation (Metro)
From Bethesda, head to the Bethesda Metro Station. Take the Red Line towards Glenmont. Ride for about 20 minutes and get off at the Judiciary Square Station. Once you exit the station, walk northeast on 4th St NW towards E St NW. Turn right onto E St NW and then left onto 1st St NW. Continue walking until you reach Constitution Ave NW, then turn right. Walk about 0.5 miles until you reach Henry Bacon Dr NW, where the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
Catch the Metrobus route 34 or 36 from the Bethesda Transit Center. The bus will take you directly towards Washington, DC. Get off at the stop near the National Mall (approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic). From there, walk towards the Lincoln Memorial, and follow the Reflecting Pool until you reach Henry Bacon Dr NW, where the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, start at the Bethesda Metro Station and head south on Wisconsin Ave towards Woodmont Ave. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with the Capital Crescent Trail. Follow the trail, which will take you towards the Potomac River. Once you reach the river, turn left and walk along the riverbank. This scenic route will eventually lead you to the National Mall area, where you can follow the signs to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Expect the walk to take roughly 2 hours.
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