Arlington Ridge Park

Arlington Ridge Park is a 27.5-acre site within the George Washington Memorial Parkway that offers walking trails and overlooks of Washington DC. The grounds feature varied terrain with multiple entry points, allowing visitors to explore different routes through the area.

The site served as a military observation post during the Civil War before becoming part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway in 1875. Its protected status was formally recognized in 2009 when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The park holds monuments that commemorate service and sacrifice, including the Dutch bell tower with its chiming carillon. Visitors can walk through and notice how people pause and reflect at these sites, understanding their importance to the local community.

The site is accessible through the N. Meade Street and Marshall Drive intersection, with several bus routes serving nearby stops. Wear comfortable shoes since the trails traverse hilly ground, and be prepared for weather that changes with the seasons.

The park contains the Marine Corps War Memorial depicting six Marines raising the flag at Iwo Jima, one of the most recognizable war images in American history. This memorial inspired similar monuments worldwide and its story becomes more moving when you stand at the overlook with the DC skyline beyond.

Location: Arlington County

GPS coordinates: 38.88750,-77.07170

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:01