Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all Washington, D.C. places

Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Landmarks

U.S. Navy Memorial

The official national tribute to the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine, featuring a massive granite world map and the iconic Lone Sailor statue on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
U.S. Navy Memorial
www.navymemorial.org, og_image_www.navymemorial.org

What is U.S. Navy Memorial?

The official national tribute to the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine, featuring a massive granite world map and the iconic Lone Sailor statue on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Why visit U.S. Navy Memorial?

Stop here to experience the scale of the Granite Sea and see the Lone Sailor statue, a poignant symbol of service located perfectly between the White House and the Capitol.

Where is U.S. Navy Memorial?

U.S. Navy Memorial is a landmarks located at 701 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC.

What is U.S. Navy Memorial best for?

U.S. Navy Memorial is a good pick for history, architecture, families, and solo travelers.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Located at 701 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, the U.S. Navy Memorial serves as the nation's official tribute to the men and women of the Sea Services, including the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine. Authorized by Congress in 1980 and dedicated on October 13, 1987, the site was intentionally placed on "America's Main Street" to symbolize the enduring connection between the naval forces and the American public. The heart of the site is the Memorial Plaza, which features the "Granite Sea," recognized as the largest map in the world. This expansive plaza is home to the iconic Lone Sailor statue, towering signal-flag masts, and fountain pools. Visitors can also discover 26 bronze sculptures that depict key moments in Navy history, providing a visual narrative of maritime service from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Beyond the outdoor plaza, the Visitor Center offers educational programming and rotating exhibits that connect individual sailor stories to global events. The memorial also maintains the Navy Log, which is the largest publicly available repository of Sea Service personnel, acting as a permanent archive of military service. The plaza frequently transforms into a public venue for commemorative ceremonies, outdoor movies, and concerts.

Visitor tips

  • Visit the Visitor Center during summer hours: Monday–Saturday 9:30 AM–5:30 PM and Sunday 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Use the Archives/Navy Memorial Metro stop on the Green or Yellow lines for the easiest access.
  • Check the official events page before visiting to see if any public concerts or outdoor movies are scheduled.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the full extent of the Granite Sea map.

Nearby context

The memorial is situated midway between the U.S. Capitol and the White House on Pennsylvania Avenue. It sits directly across from the National Archives building, making it a natural part of a walk through the city's federal core.

Sources

Evidence and links