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

World War II Memorial

A powerful tribute on the National Mall honoring the 16 million armed forces members and millions of home-front supporters who secured victory and restored freedom during World War II.

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What is the World War II Memorial known for?

The memorial recognizes the service of 16 million members of the armed forces and millions more on the home front, honoring those who died and the victory that ended tyranny and restored freedom.

What are the hours?

The memorial is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

Is it free?

Yes, the memorial is free and open to the public.

Where is it located?

It is located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., at the east end of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.

What are the architectural features of the memorial?

The memorial features stone architecture, bronze sculptures, and bronze bas-relief panels. It includes a pool surrounded by 56 granite columns symbolizing the 48 states, seven federal territories, and the District of Columbia, as well as Atlantic and Pacific arches and a wall of over 4,000 stars.

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 on the central vista of the National Mall, the World War II Memorial sits at the eastern end of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Authorized by President Bill Clinton in 1993 and designed by architect Friedrich St. Florian, the site officially opened to the public on April 29, 2004. President George W. Bush later dedicated the memorial on May 29, 2004, replacing the former Rainbow Pool. The architecture blends stone and bronze to commemorate the sacrifice of over 400,000 Americans and the service of 16 million military members. Central to the design are 56 granite columns that symbolize unity among the 48 states, seven federal territories, and the District of Columbia as they existed during the war. These pillars surround an impressive central pool, creating a space for quiet reflection. Visitors can explore bronze bas-relief panels that narrate the American experience during the conflict. The site features two triumphant arches—the northern Atlantic arch and the southern Pacific arch—which climb toward the sky. A poignant wall containing over 4,000 stars serves as a stark reminder of the heavy price paid for victory. Administered by the National Park Service, the memorial is a sacred place of remembrance and learning. It remains a focal point for the city, welcoming over 5 million visitors annually who come to honor the Greatest Generation and reflect on the victory that ended tyranny around the globe.

Visitor tips

  • The memorial is free and open 24 hours a day, making it a great spot for a sunrise or nighttime visit to avoid crowds.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site is spread across a wide plaza at the end of the Reflecting Pool.
  • Allow extra time to walk the perimeter of the 56 granite columns to see the representations of the states and territories.

Nearby context

The memorial is situated in the heart of Washington, D.C., occupying the eastern terminus of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. It serves as a architectural bridge between the Lincoln Memorial to the west and the Washington Monument to the east.

Sources

Evidence and links