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Monument to Vietnam War service, featuring a wall with over 58,000 names of dead & missing soldiers.

At a glance

#27 of 260 Tourist attractions in Washington #9 of 28 Memorial parks in Washington

LocalGuideWorld score: 4.80

1.9 km from the center of Washington

Rating breakdown

  • 5 ★88%
  • 4 ★9%
  • 3 ★2%
  • 2 ★0%
  • 1 ★1%
5 Henry Bacon Dr NW, Washington, DC 20002
Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington – photo 1
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Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington – photo 9
Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington – photo 10
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Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington – photo 12

Quick facts

What is the rating of Vietnam Veterans Memorial?
Vietnam Veterans Memorial is rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 2,236 reviews.
How does Vietnam Veterans Memorial rank in Washington?
Vietnam Veterans Memorial is #27 of 260 Tourist attractions in Washington by LocalGuideWorld score (rating weighted by number of reviews).
Where is Vietnam Veterans Memorial located?
5 Henry Bacon Dr NW, Washington, DC 20002 — 1.9 km from the center of Washington.
How can I contact Vietnam Veterans Memorial?
Phone: (202) 426-6841 · Website: nps.gov
Scott Puccinelli
Visiting the Vietnam War Memorial Wall was a deeply moving experience that left me with a profound sense of respect and reflection. The wall, located in the heart of Washington, D.C., stands as a poignant tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Vietnam War.

Upon arriving, I was immediately struck by the wall's design - a sleek, black granite surface that seems to stretch endlessly, bearing the engraved names of over 58,000 fallen soldiers. The simplicity of the design amplifies the emotional impact, allowing visitors to focus solely on the individual names that represent the stories and lives lost. The reflective quality of the stone seemed to draw me into a contemplative state, making it impossible not to pay homage to the sacrifices made.

The atmosphere around the memorial is respectful and somber, creating an environment conducive to introspection. Visitors leave behind tokens of remembrance, such as flowers, photographs, and handwritten notes, further humanizing the monument and connecting us to the past. It's a place of collective mourning, where the weight of history hangs heavy in the air.

One aspect that truly stands out is the dedication of the volunteers and park rangers present. They offer insights, share stories, and provide context about the war and its impact, enriching the experience and helping visitors understand the historical significance of the memorial. I found their presence invaluable in deepening my understanding of the war and the sacrifices made.

Visiting the Vietnam War Memorial Wall is a must for anyone interested in history, patriotism, or simply seeking a thought-provoking experience. It's a solemn reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of honoring those who have served. I left the memorial with a renewed sense of gratitude for the freedoms we enjoy and a commitment to remember the sacrifices of those who came before us.

The Vietnam War Memorial Wall is a place of powerful reflection and remembrance. Its design, the emotions it evokes, and the stories it tells all combine to create an unforgettable visit. I highly recommend this solemn and meaningful destination to anyone looking to pay their respects and gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made during the Vietnam War.
T_m my
Located between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln memorial, on a parallel to the reflection pool, this is not to be missed, and is an essential part of the memory of American identity. Remembering the men who gave their lives to one of the U.S greatest military dedicated efforts, and one which changed history. This is not how I imagined the Vietnam War veterans memorial to look like, in fact it was much more than I expected.
Phil Bradford
I find this the most poignant of the war memorials around The Mall. Its simplicity makes it an eloquent tribute to the loss of all those whose names are inscribed on the walls, highlighting the loss of so many (primarily young) lives rather than entering into the debate over the war itself. This is a place of contemplation, moving and beautiful, which should certainly be visited by anyone who can.
John Howard
A powerful and beautiful wall to commemorate the lives of those that fight that awful war. So many people mistreated so poorly. Sent off to fight a war for an ungrateful nation. But these men and women served their country with honor. And we should not forget. It is a must see and great memorial.
Gwendolyn R Houston-Jack
When history stares you in the face...I wasn't ready. I wasn't read for the wave of emotions that rushed over me.

Reading the numbers of wounded, missing, and lives lost puts a lot of things in perspective. I truly believe everyone should make a visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. It's so easy to forget and dismiss the what we're not directly a part of.
Susan Jordan
This is a very unique and special memorial and the honorary service was conducted in a professional and superb manner. As a veteran, it holds a special place in my heart. God Bless America and God Bless our military and their families.
Ward Dougherty
A very nice tribute to brave soldiers who were lost in the Vietnam War
The memorial is located on the National Mall, to the east of the Lincoln Memorial on the north side of the reflecting pool. It can be hard to find a parking space depending on the day and time that you visit and it is better appreciated in the daytime as lighting is limited at night. It consists of three main components: the Wall, the Three Soldiers statue, and the Vietnam Women's Memorial. The Wall is the centerpiece of the memorial and the most recognized feature. It is made of black granite and is composed of two distinct sections that meet at a 125-degree angle, forming a V shape. The Wall is inscribed with the names of over 58,000 servicemen and women who either died in the war or are listed as missing in action. The names are arranged chronologically according to the date of casualty, with no distinction made between rank or branch of service. The reflective surface of the polished black granite allows visitors to see their own reflections as they approach, creating a powerful and personal experience. I remember when they dedicated in 1982. Many did not appreciate its beauty but I think it is a very fitting tribute to the fallen and allows people to touch the names of their fallen friends. I definitely recommend visiting this and the associated memorials if you are in the area.
Devon Wood
The Vietnam War Memorial is a beautiful and poignant tribute to the men and women who served their country during the Vietnam War. Located in Washington D.C., it is a long, black granite wall that lists the names of the more than 58,000 Americans who lost their lives during the war.

The memorial is designed to be simple yet powerful, with the names listed in chronological order, rather than by rank or other factors. This creates a sense of unity among those who served and died in the conflict. The black granite surface of the wall allows visitors to see their own reflection alongside the names of the fallen, symbolizing the impact of the war on all who were touched by it.

The Vietnam War Memorial is also unique in that it is interactive, allowing visitors to leave flowers, letters, and other mementos in honor of those who died. This creates a sense of community and connection among visitors, even those who may have never met the individuals whose names are listed on the wall.

Overall, the Vietnam War Memorial is a moving tribute to the sacrifices made by those who served in the war, and a powerful reminder of the cost of war. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Washington D.C. and a place of reflection and remembrance for all Americans.

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