Quantico, Virginia: U.S. Marine Corps Museum

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is located right off of I-95 for easy access (no base access or IDing required). You can see the large glass building jetting out above the trees along I-95. The building is meant to represent the raising of the American Flag at Iwo Jima. The Museum offers free admission and free parking, as well as RV parking, a dog park, and a playground.

This is one of the most interesting museums along I-95. The displays and featured films in the Medal of Honor Theater are great! When we visited there was a display telling the story about various war dogs that were in past and present-day conflicts around the globe. It was sad to read that when the United Sates pulled out of Vietnam, close to 4,000 dogs were left behind.

Outside the museum is a walking trail with monuments every few yards dedicated to a Marine, or group of Marines, from a particular era or battle. Inside, the exhibits are arranged chronologically, through the Korean War. There are life-size immersive scenes as well as miniatures, and examples of equipment and vehicles with many planes and helicopters hanging from the ceiling.

A couple of areas are designed for children but they don't shy away from the realities of war.

There is also a piece of the Pentagon and a beam from the World Trade Center that you are encouraged to touch.

On November 13 the National Museum of the Marine Corps opens to the public. It stands just outside of the main gate of the Quantico Marine Base, on 135 wooded acres in Quantico, Virginia....