Spend a Day Exploring Arlington, VA’s Military Sights

Arlington has an unmistakable connection to the U.S. military. Not only is it home to Arlington National Cemetery and many military monuments and memorials, the county is also where the Pentagon, the helm of the U.S. Department of Defense, is located.

Arlington also hosts Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, home to several regiments of the Armed Forces including the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). The Old Guard is the Army’s oldest active-duty unit, honoring fallen comrades in arms and conducting ceremonies. Here are just some of the ways to take in Arlington's military sights while you're here visiting:

Pictured | Aerial View of Arlington National Cemetery

Grab Breakfast from a Veteran-Owned Business

Start your day with a latte and fresh pastries at Compass Coffee at any one of their Arlington locations. This local coffee chain was started by two former Marines and is dedicated to making great coffee at its Arlington roastery. If Doughnuts are more your style, veteran-owned Good Company Doughnuts and Café is a warm and inviting café specializing in fresh, hand-cut doughnut that have locals lining up outside on weekend mornings. Owners Charles, Kate, Melissa, and Tim all have connections to the Military or the Department of Defense.

Read more about more veteran-owned Arlington businesses here.

Marvel at the Marine Corps War Memorial

After you’re caffeinated, head over to the Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima) in Rosslyn. This moving memorial is dedicated to all Marines who have given their lives in defense of the United States since 1775. Walk around the monument to experience the magnificent work of art and the stunning views of the nation’s capital.

Honor the Fallen at Arlington National Cemetery

Make your way to Arlington National Cemetery, the tranquil resting place for more than 400,000 active-duty service members, veterans and their families. Stop by the Welcome Center to buy tickets for a tram tour or explore the cemetery on your own. Make time to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, performed by the U.S. Honor Guard.

Celebrate the Contribution of Women in the Military

Adjacent to the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center, the Military Women's Memorial recognizes women’s contribution to the armed forces. The beautiful building is the only major national memorial honoring all women who have defended America throughout history.

Be sure to check out their newest monument, “The Pledge, " a bronze sculpture honoring all women in military service and combat-trained dogs. The monument stands just inside the Women’s Memorial, located at the ceremonial entrance of Arlington National Cemetery.

Visit the Air Force Memorial

Snag a cab or rideshare to visit the Air Force Memorial, honoring the service and heritage of the men and women in the United States Air Force. The towering memorial affords nice views of Arlington and Washington, D.C., which are reflected off its gleaming three-pronged formation—inspired by the contrails of the Air Force Thunderbirds.

Tour the Pentagon

After spending the day honoring the military’s legacy, learn about current operations on a tour at the Pentagon. The headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, the Pentagon offers 60-minute tours to visitors Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from noon to 4 p.m. Reservations must be booked from 14 to 90 days in advance.

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Jackie Evans

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