The Pentagon

The basics

The Pentagon is a city unto itself, and its distinctive 5-sided building lays claim to six ZIP codes. Designed by American architect George Bergstrom and dedicated in 1943, the grounds are home to the 2-acre (0.80-hectare) Pentagon Memorial.

Walking tours cover 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) over the course of an hour and highlight the missions and accomplishments of the Armed Services, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and the Joint Staff. Many tours of Washington DC and Arlington stop at the site, whether you want to visit on a private or group tour. Hop-on, hop-off tours typically stop at the Pentagon along with DC highlights such as the White House, the Jefferson Memorial, and US Capitol Building.

Things to know before you go

• No photos, videos, or recordings are allowed during tours.

• The Pentagon tours program offers free guided tours to US citizens and permanent residents by reservation only.

• Travelers must exit the building directly after their tour concludes and are not allowed back into the Visitor Center.

• The building is accessible to wheelchair users, although they must travel with someone to assist them inside.

• An exhibit dedicated to the history of the US Coast Guard is on the 4th floor.

How to get there

The Pentagon lies between Arlington National Cemetery and the Potomac River. While guided tours and hop-on, hop-off buses are a good way to arrive, travelers who drive can leave their car at the Pentagon City Mall parking lot and walk through the pedestrian tunnel (about a 10-minute walk). The Pentagon has its own metro station serving the Blue and Yellow lines—the visitor entrance is next to the metro entrance.

When to get there

The building can sometimes be closed to visitors without notice, so it’s a good idea to check ahead of time. For scheduled tours, arrive at the security checkpoint at least an hour ahead of the tour start time. Be sure to explore the gift shop and visitor center, as you won’t be allowed back into these areas after your tour concludes.

The National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial

On September 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked American Airlines Flight 77, which crashed into the west wall of the Pentagon, penetrating three of the five rings. The area hit was under renovation at the time, and many of the offices were empty, sparing countless lives. The area has since been repaired and is now flanked by the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, open to the public 24 hours a day. This monument to the airplane attack honors the 184 victims, symbolized by illuminated granite benches arranged in order of their ages: 3 to 71.

Can you take a tour of the Pentagon?

Yes, the Pentagon offers public tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays. However, it’s not a case of simply showing up. Tours are available to U.S. citizens who book at least two weeks in advance. Staff must clear all visitors for entry prior to their arrival.

Is the Pentagon tour worth it?

Yes. Although it takes some planning and navigating through strict security procedures, touring the Pentagon is worth it if you get the chance. After all, the Pentagon is one of the largest and most famous office buildings in the world and a lasting symbol of the United States.

Can I visit the Pentagon without a tour?

No, you cannot visit the Pentagon without a tour. Security is understandably tight at the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense. Potential visitors must book official tours at least 14 days in advance (and no more than 90). Tours are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and quickly sell out.

How long does it take to walk across the Pentagon?

Tours of the Pentagon take about 60 minutes. Wear comfortable shoes since you walk around 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers). Tours include the history of the four branches of the military and visit the indoor memorial near the September 11 crash site, the September 11 Memorial chapel, and the Hall of Heroes.

Can you take pictures inside the Pentagon?

No. To protect staff privacy and security, staff prohibits visitors from taking pictures inside. Visitors cannot bring any electronic devices on Pentagon tours. Since there is no secure storage for these devices, visitors are encouraged not to bring cell phones, cameras, headphones, and other electronics.

Where do you park for the Pentagon tour?

While the Pentagon does not have public parking, drivers can leave their cars at the Pentagon City Mall and walk five minutes to the entrance through a pedestrian tunnel. To avoid parking, take the Blue and Yellow metro lines to The Pentagon Station.