Washington, D.C.'s United States Navy Memorial is a popular outdoor spot for locals and a great place to visit if you're traveling down the storied parade route of Pennsylvania Avenue. The prominent sculptures, fountains and signal flags combine to honor those who have served in the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine.
How to get to the United States Navy Memorial
If you're traveling by car, bike or foot, the United States Navy Memorial is located directly off of Pennsylvania Avenue NW, between 7th and 9th Streets NW, directly opposite the National Archives Building. Street parking in the area is metered. By metro, the memorial is found on either the green or yellow line at the top of the escalator upon exiting the National Archives/Navy Memorial/Penn Quarter station.
Best and worst time to go to the United States Navy Memorial
Beautifully lit during the evening hours, the memorial's fountains are best experienced at night during the Spring and Summer months. If you visit during the daytime and the sun is shining, you'll be sharing the memorial with crowds of office workers lounging on their lunch break.
Admission to the United States Navy Memorial
The memorial is free to all and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Must see/do at the United States Navy Memorial
Take the time to walk around and enjoy at the 26 finely carved relief sculptures which surround the memorial's front entrance. Each one depicts a stirring scene from the navy's history in marvelous detail.
Other places to visit near the United States Navy Memorial
Take a trip across the street to see the Declaration of Independence or the United States Constitution at the National Archives Building. If the line is too long, head over to the intersection of 7th and E Streets NW to visit Clara Barton's Missing Soldier's Office Museum.
Insider tip for visitors to the United States Navy Memorial
A great nearby lunch spot is Hill Country Barbecue at the corner of 7th and D Streets NW. If you like the idea of eating pulled pork sandwiches and drinking lemonade out of a mason jar, this is the spot for you.
Author's bio: Aaron is a freelance writer and licensed D.C. tour guide living in the nation's capital. He is a true history geek and loves showing off the city to visitors. Follow his exploits by visiting www.historicamerica.org.
