Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Massive wall honoring 50,000+ Americans lost to war

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Where the Star-Spangled Banner was born: a compact fort with sweeping harbor views and living history. It’s an easy win—flat paths, open lawns, and a visitor film that sets the scene in under 15 minutes.

Start at the visitor center for your map, then follow the ramp to the east wall for the best harbor vantage. Time your visit for a flag raising or lowering—the ranger talk turns the place into a story you’ll remember.

For a slower visit, circle the star-shaped ramparts clockwise and watch ships move in and out of the Patapsco.

What’s new? Updated today

Sunset flag lowering 6:30pm (Fri–Sun)
Temporary exhibit: War of 1812
Harbor shuttle every 20 minutes

What are the hours? — 9:00–17:00 (daily)

Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official site before you go.

How much does it cost? — $15 adults · kids free

Admission covers the fort and visitor center exhibits; special tours may be extra.

Where do I park? — On-site lot + overflow

Lots can fill on weekends by mid-day; arrive early or consider rideshare.

Is it accessible? — Flat paths; accessible restrooms

Most ramparts have graded access; some historic areas may have uneven surfaces.

Arrive 30 min before sunset for the lowering ceremony and best light.
Wind picks up on the ramparts—bring a light jacket even in summer.
Stroller route: enter via visitor center, ramp to east wall loop.

The names of 58,318 Americans who lost their lives in the Vietnam War are engraved chronologically on an expansive black granite wall near the Lincoln Memorial, forming the cornerstone of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Visitors can browse an alphabetical list of names in nearby catalogs to help them locate specific engravings on the Memorial.

In addition to the wall of names, the Memorial also includes:

Three Servicemen Statue
Vietnam Women’s Memorial
In Memory Plaque
Pole flying US & MIA-POW flags

The memorial was designed in 1980 by Maya Lin, then a 21-year-old Yale architecture student who had entered her creation into a design competition. She won unanimously.

You can learn more about the History of the Wall at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.

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