Arlington National Cemetery
Nearly 4 million people visit Arlington National Cemetery annually. Established on June 15, 1864, the cemetery buries about 100 individuals each week. Three hundred thousand people are buried at the cemetery. Soldiers from all United States wars are buried on the property. Three individuals reside in the Tome of the Unknown Solder, which is guarded 365 days a year. Other spots of interest include the nearby Lee Mansion, third Infantry Division Monument, Canadian Cross of Sacrifice Memorial, Chaplains' Hill Monument, Civil War Unknowns Monument, Confederate Memorial, Iran Rescue Mission Monument, Korean War Contemplative Bench, Pan Am Flight 103 Memorial Cairn, President John F. Kennedy Gravesite, President William Howard Taft Monument, Robert F. Kennedy Gravesite and Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial.
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington, Virginia 22211
(703) 607-8000
arlingtoncemetery.org/
James Monroe Farm
In 1799, James Monroe chose Ash-Lawn-Highland as his place of residence to be near his friend Thomas Jefferson, who resided at another landmark, Monticello. In 1931, the historic house opened to the public for the first time. A decade later, the farm came into the hands of Monroe's alma mater, College of William and Mary. The college quickly set about restoring the house further. Besides exploring the house, visitors can fly kites in the spring, hear traditional music and opera in the Boxwood Gardens and cut a Christmas tree. Several special events occur throughout the year, such as the celebration of Elizabeth Monroe's birthday, with refreshments, colonial games and a colonial etiquette lesson.
Ash Lawn-Highland
1000 James Monroe Parkway
Charlottesville, Virginia 22902
(434) 293-8000
ashlawnhighland.org/
Thomas Jefferson Foundation
Post Office Box 316
Charlottesville, VA 22902
(434) 984-9822
monticello.org
Colonial National Historical Park
The first settlement of the United States occurred at Jamestown. Costumed personalities lead guided tours of the site, portraying individuals of that era. Glassblowers make glass in the glasshouse. Rangers lead tours, describing the island and 17th century life. Outdoor enthusiasts will particularly like walking, running, biking or driving Jamestown Island Drive, which loops 8 miles around the island. Exploring Jamestown Island Drive gives visitors a chance to see the native wildlife, such as a nesting pair of bald eagles. Other animals include a large variety of birds, raccoon, opossum, mink, red tail fox, turtles, lizards, snakes and frogs.
Colonial National Historical Park
P.O. Box 210
Yorktown, VA 23690
(757) 229-1733
nps.gov/jame