1ST Marine Division Association 78th Reunion
Sightseeing Guide: Explore Washington, D.C.
Discover the rich history and iconic landmarks surrounding the Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel. Here’s a selection of must-visit sites:
🏛️ Arlington National Cemetery
A sacred resting place for over 400,000 service members, including President John F. Kennedy. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Location: Arlington, VA
Website: arlingtoncemetery.mil
🕊️ Pentagon 9/11 Memorial
A powerful outdoor memorial honoring the 184 lives lost in the September 11 Pentagon attack. Open 24/7 and photography-friendly.
Location: Arlington, VA
Website: pentagonmemorial.org
🕊️ Air Force Memorial
The Air Force Memorial honors active-duty service members in the United States Air Force (USAF), as well as airmen killed in combat in service to the USAF and its predecessor organizations (prior to the USAF’s establishment in 1947)
Location: Arlington, VA
Website: arlingtoncemetery.mil/Expansion/US-Air-Force-Memorial
🎖️ National Museum of the Marine Corps
Immerse yourself in Marine Corps history through interactive exhibits and powerful storytelling.
Location: Triangle, VA
Website: usmcmuseum.com
✈️ Udvar-Hazy Center – National Air and Space Museum
See the Space Shuttle Discovery and hundreds of aircraft in this massive aviation museum.
Location: Chantilly, VA
Website: airandspace.si.edu
🏛️ The White House
The official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. While exterior views are iconic, interior tours require advance reservations through your Member of Congress.
Location: Washington, D.C.
Website: whitehouse.gov
🏛️ Lincoln Memorial & National Mall
Visit Lincoln’s iconic statue and stroll the Reflecting Pool to the WWII and Vietnam Veterans Memorials.
Location: Washington, D.C.
📍 3 miles from hotel
Website: nps.gov/linc
🏛️ U.S. Capitol
The seat of Congress and a symbol of American democracy. Free guided tours are available, but must be requested in advance through your congressional representative or via the Capitol Visitor Center.
Location: Washington, D.C.
Website: visitthecapitol.gov
🏠 George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Explore the beautifully preserved estate of the first U.S. President, including gardens, a working farm, museum, and Washington’s tomb.
🔗 mountvernon.org
📍 Mount Vernon, VA – ~17 miles
🌊 The Wharf – Southwest Waterfront
A vibrant waterfront destination featuring dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Enjoy live music, boat rides, and scenic views along the Potomac River.
Distance: Approximately 4 miles
Website: wharfdc.com
🎰 MGM National Harbor
A premier resort offering a casino, fine dining, shopping, and live entertainment. Experience luxury amenities and panoramic views of the Potomac River.
Distance: Approximately 12 miles (Oxon Hill, MD)
Website: mgmnationalharbor.com