National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial
A solemn memorial with 184 granite benches, each honoring a victim of the 9/11 Pentagon attack with engraved names and reflective pools.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful reflection
National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial
Best Time
Peaceful reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn memorial with 184 granite benches, each honoring a victim of the 9/11 Pentagon attack with engraved names and reflective pools.
"A silent place of immense power, commanding respect without raising its voice."
🤫 Maintain Solemnity
This is a place for quiet reflection. Avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior.
📸 Photo Etiquette
Photograph the memorial, but refrain from capturing the Pentagon building or security areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Engraved Memorial Benches
The Memorial Grounds
184 granite benches, each with a pool of water, honor victims with their names etched in stone.
The Flow of Remembrance
The Memorial Grounds
The thoughtful design creates a powerful sense of presence and commands respect, fostering quiet reflection.
Personal Tributes
Individual Benches
Discover touching personal tributes, like a poster for Zoe, reminding visitors of the individual lives lost.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visitation
Navigating to the Memorial
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Maintain Solemnity
This is a place for quiet reflection. Avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior.
📸 Photo Etiquette
Photograph the memorial, but refrain from capturing the Pentagon building or security areas.
📍 Navigate Carefully
Construction can make access confusing. Follow signs closely to avoid Pentagon police encounters.
💧 Reflect by the Water
Each bench has a small pool; take a moment to pause and reflect by the water's edge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Maintain Solemnity
This is a place for quiet reflection. Avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior.
📸 Photo Etiquette
Photograph the memorial, but refrain from capturing the Pentagon building or security areas.
📍 Navigate Carefully
Construction can make access confusing. Follow signs closely to avoid Pentagon police encounters.
💧 Reflect by the Water
Each bench has a small pool; take a moment to pause and reflect by the water's edge.
🌱 Plant Zinnias
Consider planting zinnias in memory of Zoe and all victims, as suggested by a visitor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial as a place of immense power and solemnity, with its simple yet profound design commanding respect. The 184 engraved benches and reflective pools create a deeply moving experience for those seeking quiet remembrance. However, some find it less elaborate than other 9/11 memorials and note challenges with navigation and parking due to its high-security location.
"A silent place of immense power.
Before you even step into the inner circle, you feel it: this isn’t just wind brushing over marble and steel—this is a presence. A hush. A space that commands respect without raising its voice.
The design feels almost like a ritual circle—each of the 184 illuminated benches tells a story, a memory forged in metal and stone. Walking among them feels like flipping through pages of a chapter the world must never forget.
For quiet heroes.
For eternal remembrance.
And for you—to witness, to feel, and not to forget."
Der “Wertzeit” Tester
"We were not from DC and had a little bit of a hard time finding the actual location to the memorial plus the parking. We got turned around and accidently went (for like 1.5 seconds) down a one way and Pentagon police did not hesitate to pull us over. We were only given a warning but they definitely aren't playing around. Don't come for me, but I personally found this memorial very simple (just overall) when compared to the 9/11 memorial in NYC. Yes, two different places but still the same subject (I'm sure the Shanksville PA location is about the same). There was only one other couple here. It is nice and quiet. Definitely a place for remembrance and reflecting. Worth a visit for sure. Not much here other than the memorial benches, each with a pool of water underneath. Very moving and such a great way to memorialize those lost on 9/11 in the Pentagon. Being near the Pentagon, security is high and I would limit your photography to strictly the memorial itself and not the building or surrounding area."
Taylor Morgan
"Loved how peaceful and quiet the memorial was despite being near a highway. What I really didn't like was when I went to the memorial I saw people laying on the graves and sitting on them and overall were being really disrespectful to the memorial and the people that died there."
Savannah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The memorial can be a bit tricky to locate due to its proximity to the Pentagon and potential construction. Visitors recommend paying close attention to signage and being mindful of one-way streets to avoid issues with Pentagon police.
Parking can be challenging. Some visitors have reported getting turned around or accidentally violating traffic rules, leading to interactions with Pentagon police. It's advisable to research parking options in advance or consider ride-sharing services.
Information on direct public transport routes to the memorial is limited. However, the Pentagon Metro station is nearby, and from there, it's a walk to the memorial. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The memorial is located in a high-security area due to its proximity to the Pentagon. Visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings and adhere strictly to photography guidelines.
While specific accessibility details are not widely published, the memorial's design with paved paths and benches suggests a degree of accessibility. It's recommended to contact the memorial directly for detailed accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial is a public space and does not require tickets for entry. It is open for visitors to pay their respects.
The memorial is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific opening and closing times can vary, and it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures or adjusted hours before your visit.
There is no admission fee to visit the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial. It is a free public memorial dedicated to remembrance.
While there are no explicit prohibitions mentioned for small bags, given the high-security nature of the area, it's advisable to bring only essentials. Large bags or backpacks might be subject to scrutiny.
Visitors are asked to be respectful. Items that could be considered disruptive or disrespectful, such as loud music or excessive noise, should be avoided.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is described as one of immense power, silence, and solemnity. It's a space that commands respect and encourages quiet reflection on the events of 9/11.
Yes, photography of the memorial itself is permitted. However, visitors are strictly prohibited from photographing the Pentagon building or any surrounding security infrastructure.
Each of the 184 granite benches is engraved with the name of a victim who died in the Pentagon attack on September 11, 2001. They are arranged to face the Pentagon, symbolizing remembrance.
Each bench is accompanied by a small pool of water, adding to the contemplative and serene atmosphere of the memorial.
Most visitors find that 30-60 minutes is sufficient to walk through the memorial, read the names, and reflect. However, you can spend longer if you wish to sit and contemplate.
📸 📸 Photography
You can take photos of the memorial benches and the overall memorial grounds. However, it is strictly forbidden to photograph the Pentagon building itself or any security features.
Due to the high-security nature of the area surrounding the Pentagon, drone usage is highly restricted and likely prohibited. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the reflective atmosphere for photography. The illuminated benches at dusk can also be striking.
While not explicitly banned, selfies can be seen as disrespectful in such a solemn place. Visitors are encouraged to prioritize respectful remembrance over casual photography.
Photos that capture the quiet dignity, the engraved names, and the reflective pools tend to be most impactful, conveying the solemnity of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the individual stories and the idea of remembrance. The engraved benches and the pools of water can be points of interest, but emphasize the meaning behind them. Avoid letting children run or play, and ensure they understand the need for quiet contemplation. The memorial's simplicity can be easier for younger children to grasp than complex historical narratives.
🙏 Respectful Visitors
Remember that this is a sacred space for many. The memorial's design itself encourages a sense of reverence. Take your time to read the names, reflect on the lives lost, and absorb the quiet power of the site. Photography should be done discreetly and respectfully, focusing on the memorial elements rather than intrusive personal shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Design of Remembrance
The simplicity of the design is intentional, allowing the names and the sheer number of lives lost to speak for themselves. Unlike more elaborate memorials, the Pentagon Memorial focuses on the individual stories etched in stone, creating an intimate connection between the visitor and the victims. The surrounding landscaping is kept serene, ensuring that the focus remains on the memorial itself and the solemn purpose it serves.
Visitors often remark on the 'presence' they feel upon entering the memorial, a testament to its powerful and respectful atmosphere. The design successfully transforms a space of immense tragedy into one of quiet dignity and eternal remembrance, a place where the world can witness and not forget.
Navigating Security and Access
Finding the memorial can be a challenge, especially with potential ongoing construction that may alter access routes. It's crucial to follow posted signs precisely and to be aware of one-way streets. Some visitors have found themselves accidentally turning down restricted areas, leading to interactions with law enforcement. Planning your route in advance and using GPS with up-to-date traffic information can be beneficial.
Photography rules are also strictly enforced. While you are welcome to photograph the memorial itself, taking pictures of the Pentagon building or any security personnel or infrastructure is prohibited. Respecting these guidelines ensures a smooth and respectful visit for everyone.
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