The Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, is the headquarters of the US Department of Defense and one of the world’s largest office buildings. Its five-sided design and scale make it a striking stop, but the guided tour gives you the clearest sense of the building’s history and purpose. Tours last about an hour and include selected interior sites such as the Hall of Heroes and a memorial near the September 11 crash site. Outside, the Pentagon Memorial commemorates the 184 people killed in the attack. Book ahead and allow extra time for security.
The Pentagon’s design and wartime construction
The Pentagon is in Arlington, Virginia, across the Potomac River from Washington, DC. It serves as the headquarters of the US Department of Defense and is among the world’s largest office buildings, with about 6.5 million square feet of floor space.
Architect George Bergstrom designed the five-sided building. Construction began in September 1941, before the United States entered World War II, and the building was completed in January 1943 after 16 months. Reinforced concrete and Indiana limestone were used for the exterior; steel was scarce during the war. A central courtyard sits within the five wings.
What the guided tour covers
Public tours are led by military personnel and take about 60 minutes. They follow a set route through selected interior areas, rather than giving access to the entire working headquarters. Stops include the Hall of Heroes, the chapel connected with September 11, and an indoor memorial near the crash site.
The tour also covers the histories of the military branches and the building itself. Displays and artifacts along the corridors relate to military history and US defense. Since the Pentagon remains an active government workplace, security screening is strict and the route is subject to clear limits on where visitors can go.
The Pentagon Memorial
The outdoor Pentagon Memorial honors the 184 people killed in the September 11, 2001 attack on the building. Its illuminated benches form a memorial to those who lost their lives. You can visit the memorial separately from the interior tour, or include it as part of a visit to the Pentagon grounds.
The memorial is a place of remembrance. Give people space and follow posted guidance while you are there. Inside the building, obey security instructions and respect restrictions on photography.
FAQ
Do you need to book a Pentagon tour in advance?
Yes. Tours must be reserved ahead of time. International visitors should request a tour through their country’s embassy.
How long is the Pentagon tour?
The guided tour takes about 60 minutes. Allow extra time before it for security screening.
Can you visit the Pentagon Memorial without taking a tour?
The memorial is outside the building and is listed as a separate place to visit. The interior tour is separately reserved.
Can you take photographs inside the Pentagon?
Photography is restricted in sensitive areas. Follow the security instructions and any guidance given during your visit.
