Every year in November, we take the time to sit, pause, and reflect on those who have sacrificed their lives for our country. Here in Prince William, Virginia, we’re fortunate to have meaningful ways to honor their service while learning more about the people, stories, and history behind it.

Being right outside of our nation's capital and home to the military base, Quantico, we have several ways to make this Veterans Day meaningful. And if there's one place we recommend starting, it's the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

Marine Corps Band

Located in Triangle, just off I-95 near Marine Corps Base Quantico, the National Museum of the Marine Corps offers an immersive look at the history, traditions, and experiences of America's Marines like no other museum in the United States can offer.

From the early days of the Corps to major conflicts throughout U.S. history, the museum's galleries feature artifacts, exhibits, and stories that help visitors better understand the service and sacrifices of Marines across generations. It's a meaningful stop for veterans and military families, but you don't have to have a military connection to appreciate the experience.

Even better? Admission and parking are free, and the museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. This is the type of museum you could spend all day at and still feel like you have more to see. We recommend visitors to plan to spend at least three to four hours exploring the galleries, with extra time if you'd like to visit the outdoor memorial park.

 

Special Veterans Day Weekend Events

This year is an especially exciting time to visit. The museum is celebrating Veterans Day, the Marine Corps' 251st birthday, and its own 20th anniversary with special activities throughout the week.

Here are a few can't-miss-events to add to your calendar:

For additional event details, ticket information, and updates, visit the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation's Veterans Day Weekend page.

Marine Corps Cake Cutting

Take a Moment at Semper Fidelis Memorial Park

If you're up for a little walk and looking to pay a little more respect to our fallen men and women, right next to the museum, Semper Fidelis Memorial Park offers an outdoor space for reflection, remembrance, and appreciation.

The park features memorials, walking paths, and commemorative spaces honoring Marines and their service. It's a peaceful place to slow down after exploring the museum, take a walk, and reflect on the meaning of the day. During the November 7–11 flag placement event, visitors can also honor a veteran or loved one by placing a flag along the park's trails. If you're visiting with family, it's a simple but meaningful way to create space for conversation about service, sacrifice, and remembrance.

The park is open from sunrise to sunset, and time is about to change so make sure you plan accordingly. 

Recognize the Veterans in Our Own Community

Sometimes we forget how easy it is to say "thank you" to someone who has served for our country. Honoring veterans doesn't have to mean traveling far or attending a formal ceremony. Sometimes, one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate is to recognize the people who have served right here in our community.

This November, Prince William County is hosting its One Community, Many Heroes Veterans Tribute at the County Government Center over Veterans Day. The temporary outdoor display will feature the names, photographs, and branches of service of veterans connected to Prince William County.

It's a reminder that behind every name is a person with a story and that veterans are our neighbors, friends, family members, coworkers, and community members.

 

Exploring Prince William's Military History

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is a wonderful place to begin, but it's far from the only place to explore history in Prince William. Sometimes you don't want to spend a whole day indoors and that's okay! We have options for you. 

If you're looking to make a day of it, consider adding another stop to your itinerary:

  • Freedom Museum in Manassas: Located in the heart of Historic Manassas, you can discover local military history and stories connecting service members and their families to the Prince William area.

  • Manassas National Battlefield Park: If you want to enjoy a little bit of fresh air, explore the landscapes of the First and Second Battles of Manassas and learn more about two pivotal early battles of the Civil War.

  • National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico: Located not too far from TNMOTMC, this is a place of remembrance for service members, veterans, and eligible family members. If you visit, please be mindful that this is a sacred resting place and follow all posted guidance. There is over 700 acres for you to walk. 

Make sure to check each site's official website before visiting for current hours, access information, and any special holiday arrangements.

Quantico Cemetery

Making Veterans Day Meaningful

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to show appreciation for veterans in Prince William Virginia. Whether it's visiting a museum, attending a special event, writing a thank-you note, or simply taking time to listen to someone's story, there really is no excuse not to take some time out of your day to do something. 

This Veterans Day, we invite you to explore the history and memorials of our county and take a moment to recognize the service members who have helped shape our country and our community.

 

From our family to yours, to all who have served, and to the families who have supported them: thank you.