The Marine Corps War Memorial
The iconic image of a group of soldiers raising the American flag has been featured in countless textbooks, photographs and movies. The statue depicts an incident that occurred at the end of the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II, but it's dedicated to honoring all those Marines who gave their lives in service to their country. The figures stand 32 feet high and the flagpole extends 60 feet. A flag flies 24 hours a day in accordance with a 1961 presidential proclamation. You can stop by the monument at any time. Next to it is Arlington National Cemetery, where visitors can pay their respects.
The Marine Corps War Memorial
Arlington Boulevard & N. Meade St.
Arlington, VA 22209
703-285-2601
nps.gov/archive/gwmp/usmc.htm
George Washington Birthplace
The birthplace of our first president is preserved as a national monument site by the U.S. Parks Department. The reconstructed house contains more than 1,000 museum pieces from the colonial era. The extensive grounds demonstrate what farm life was like for the Washingtons and give you a feeling of the experiences of his formative years. A visitors center shows a film strip that explains plantation life and talks about the founding of the monument site. It is open year-round and several special events are held every year on Feb. 22 to coincide with Washington's birthday.
George Washington Birthplace
1732 Popes Creek Road
Colonial Beach, VA 22443
804-224-1732
nps.gov/gewa/index.htm
Monument Avenue
Monument Avenue in Richmond is the only street in the country that is a National Historic Landmark. On this tree-lined boulevard, you'll find six monuments depicting figures key to the city's history. Given that it was the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War, it's no surprise that the monuments include Robert E. Lee, Jefferson Davis and Stonewall Jackson. However, you'll also find monuments honoring Matthew Fontaine Maury, who was a pioneer in the field of oceanography, and tennis legend Arthur Ashe. The statues are available to visit at any time.
Monument Avenue
Start at Corner of Monument Avenue and N. Allen Avenue
Richmond, VA 23220
