Manila American Cemetery and Memorial
A vast, serene memorial honoring over 17,000 American soldiers lost in WWII, offering a profound historical and peaceful experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Manila American Cemetery and Memorial
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, serene memorial honoring over 17,000 American soldiers lost in WWII, offering a profound historical and peaceful experience.
"The most beautiful memorial and cemetery I’ve ever been to. 
ID Required for Entry
Bring a valid ID for entry. Security checks are in place at the main gate.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the expansive grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Walls of the Missing
Memorial Hall
Thousands of names etched in stone, a poignant reminder of those whose remains were never found.
The Sea of White Crosses
Cemetery Grounds
Perfectly aligned white crosses stretching across manicured lawns, a breathtaking and somber sight.
The Memorial Chapel
Central Area
A serene chapel offering a quiet space for reflection amidst the vast cemetery grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Allocate Ample Time for Reflection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
ID Required for Entry
Bring a valid ID for entry. Security checks are in place at the main gate.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the expansive grounds.
Visitor Center is a Must
Explore exhibits and artifacts for a deeper understanding of WWII history.
Bells Chime at Noon
Catch the 'Glory Hallelujah' chime at the main tower at 12 PM.
Tips
from all over the internet
ID Required for Entry
Bring a valid ID for entry. Security checks are in place at the main gate.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the expansive grounds.
Visitor Center is a Must
Explore exhibits and artifacts for a deeper understanding of WWII history.
Bells Chime at Noon
Catch the 'Glory Hallelujah' chime at the main tower at 12 PM.
Immaculate Groundskeeping
Appreciate the dedication of the staff who keep the cemetery pristine.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Manila American Cemetery for its immaculate condition, moving historical significance, and peaceful atmosphere. The helpful staff and informative visitor center are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. Some note the heat, but find ample shade and a breeze. It's considered a must-see for its educational value and profound sense of remembrance.
"A beautiful and moving cemetery. It is kept immaculate by the helpful and professional staff. The visitor centre is wonderful and took us well over an hour before looking elsewhere. It is an incredible walk through history. Despite the heat there is plenty of shade and breeze. We drove and were met at the main gate by helpful security who checked our id. If you use what3words, the main gate is at "///bucket.pass.however". The parking is next to the visitor centre at "///bracelet.battle.genetics"."
21 Bryce
"We really enjoyed our time here. Something new to mantion is that if you are at the main Tower and Memorial area at 12 noon the bells chime Glory Hallelujah which I thought was an interesting touch.
The maps depicting various aspects of the war campaigns or major operations were well done, even such things as Carrier activity and submarines.
Just need to dress appropriately to get in and read the rules. The staff was very accommodating and helpful. As others have said, the groundskeeping staff has this place looking immaculate. They must feel proud at how well the place is viewed by visitors."
Ronald Nielson
"Must see! Beautiful and moving. Visitors center has some artifacts and a compelling "
Taylor Gibb
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cemetery is located in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services like Grab, or by public transport to the BGC area and then a short walk or tricycle ride. Many visitors use what3words for precise navigation: the main gate is at "///bucket.pass.however" and parking is at "///bracelet.battle.genetics".
Yes, there is parking available next to the visitor center.
While direct public transport to the cemetery is limited, you can take buses or jeepneys to the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) area and then use a short taxi or tricycle ride to reach the memorial.
The grounds are vast, but the main pathways are generally accessible. It's advisable to contact the cemetery directly for specific accessibility information.
Many visitors find it helpful to start at the visitor center to get an overview, then explore the main memorial and the rows of graves. Maps are available to guide you.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial is free.
The cemetery is typically open daily from morning to late afternoon. It's always a good idea to check official sources for the most current hours, especially around holidays.
Tickets are not required, and advance booking is not necessary for general visits.
Yes, visitors are expected to dress respectfully. Avoid revealing or overly casual attire to honor the solemn nature of the site.
Yes, group visits are welcome. For larger groups or organized tours, it's recommended to contact the cemetery administration in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see 17,206 graves of American soldiers, the Walls of the Missing with 36,286 names, a memorial chapel, and exhibits detailing WWII campaigns.
Most visitors spend at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the history and the grounds. Some spend much longer, especially if they are researching family history.
Yes, the symmetry of the crosses and the vast green landscape offer beautiful, albeit somber, photographic opportunities.
It's described as peaceful, solemn, moving, and incredibly well-maintained. It offers a quiet sanctuary in the bustling city.
While not always formally advertised, the staff at the visitor center are very helpful and can provide information. Some visitors have found the staff to be very accommodating.
📸 📸 Photography
The sweeping vistas of white crosses, the memorial hall with the Walls of the Missing, and the chapel are popular spots. The symmetry creates striking images.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of the solemn nature of the site and avoid intrusive or disrespectful shots.
Capturing the scale and order of the graves, the details of the memorial inscriptions, and the serene atmosphere can be very impactful.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in cemeteries and memorial sites to maintain peace and respect. It's best to assume drones are not allowed.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Researchers
📸 Photographers
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Memorial to WWII
+1Beyond the individual graves, the Walls of the Missing bear the names of 36,286 individuals whose remains were never recovered. This section serves as a powerful reminder of the immense human cost of the war and the enduring impact on families. The Memorial Hall and the central chapel provide spaces for reflection and remembrance, offering a quiet respite from the bustling city outside.
Visitors often remark on the immaculate upkeep of the grounds, a testament to the dedicated staff. The cemetery also offers educational insights into the gorilla warfare and Filipino resistance against the Japanese occupation, highlighting the crucial role of the Philippines in the Pacific campaign.
Experiencing the Serenity and History
+2Travelers often highlight the visitor center as a valuable resource, providing context and artifacts that deepen the understanding of the war and its impact. The maps detailing war campaigns and operations are particularly well-done, offering a comprehensive overview.
+1While the heat can be a factor, visitors note that there is plenty of shade and a gentle breeze, making exploration comfortable. The helpful and professional staff also contribute to a positive and informative visit, ensuring that the memorial is both respected and accessible.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit