Explore the U.S.S. Maine Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery, honoring those lost in the Spanish-American War.
Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia
10-15 Minutes
Spring, Fall
Free
Overview
The USS Maine Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery is a powerful tribute to the American sailors and service members who perished in the destruction of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor. The explosion on the night of February 15th became a critical event in the context of the Spanish-American War, helping push the United States toward becoming a major world power in the western hemisphere.
Commissioned during a new era of American military history, the memorial was constructed with the involvement of the United States Army Corps of Engineers and later dedicated under Woodrow Wilson. It stands as both a solemn burial site and a symbolic reminder of the enormous historical impact of the ship’s loss, which was fueled in part by sensationalist journalism and popular pro-war rallying during the presidency of William McKinley.
The memorial’s granite base and concrete base support one of its most striking features—the actual mast of the USS Maine, complete with rigging cables and the crow’s nest. This battleship’s mast serves as a rare artifact and centerpiece of the exhibit, making the site one of the most unique USS Maine relics in the continental United States.
U.S.S. Maine Memorial Plan
When visiting Arlington National Cemetery, we didn’t want to rush through just one highlight. While many visitors focus on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier plaza, the surrounding memorials—including the USS Maine Memorial—offer equally meaningful experiences.
We picked up a map at the Welcome Center and explored several landmarks across Arlington County, including stops near the Memorial Amphitheater and the USS Maine Memorial.
A large replica of an anchor
A replica of a canon seen at the memorial
Getting There
Location
Arlington National Cemetery is located in Arlington County, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. Managed in part with support from the National Park Service and the Naval District Washington, the cemetery is easily accessible via car or Metro.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit is in spring or fall when the grounds are most comfortable to explore. Early mornings during Arlington National Cemetery’s regular public hours provide the most peaceful experience.
U.S.S. Maine Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia
Who Can Go?
The memorial is open to the public, welcoming visitors of all ages. Military personnel, veterans, and civilians can all experience this sacred space, where some crew members received full military honors following salvage operations after the ship’s sinking.
What You'll See
At the USS Maine Memorial, you’ll encounter a striking combination of symbolism and authentic artifacts:
- The actual mast of the USS Maine, rising from the memorial’s floor as a centerpiece
- A female figure carved into the design, representing mourning and remembrance
- The ship’s bell and other elements tied to the U.S. Navy ship
- Memorial plaques listing the names of fallen American sailors
- Structural elements like the granite base, concrete base, and the door of the base
Some artifacts connected to the Maine—such as a wooden fragment of the Maine or spar fragment—have been preserved through years of conservation and occasionally appear in exhibits like the current exhibit at the memorial amphitheater display room or institutions such as the Pascack Historical Society in New Jersey.
The building that makes up the majority of the U.S.S. Maine Memorial
Looking inside the building at the memorial
What to Bring & Wear
Comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. Bring a camera for photos, but be respectful of the solemn grounds. Weather-appropriate clothing is important, as much of the visit is outdoors.
Where to Go
Finding the USS Maine Memorial is straightforward from the Welcome Center. Follow paved paths toward the Memorial Amphitheater area, passing scenic rows of headstones and other monuments tied to conflicts ranging from the Civil War to overseas territories shaped by the Spanish-American War.
Along the way, you may notice interpretive signage discussing topics like colonial Spain, Spanish colonial rule, and the broader geopolitical context that influenced America’s economic interests and emergence as a dominant nation.
How Long Does it Take?
Visiting the USS Maine Memorial typically takes about 10–15 minutes, though history enthusiasts may spend longer exploring the details, artifacts, and nearby exhibits.
Cost
Entrance to Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S.S. Maine Memorial is free. Guided tours may have a small fee depending on the provider.
The steps and ramp leading up to the memorial
Looking up at the tall structure of the memorial
Tips for U.S.S. Maine Memorial
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Use the cemetery map or mobile app to plan your route.
- Wear comfortable shoes; paths can be long and uneven.
- Bring water, especially in summer months.
- Respect ceremonial events, such as guard changes or wreath-laying ceremonies.
- Take time to explore nearby memorials, like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and JFK gravesite.
- Photography is allowed, but avoid capturing visitors in sensitive areas.