"From the People of the Netherlands to the People of the United States."
Thing to Do
Cast Your Gaze Across the City Skyline from the Netherlands Carillon
Details
Duration
1-2 Hours
Activity
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
The grounds of the Netherlands Carillon offer sweeping views of Washington, DC. In temperate weather the grassy slope and large shade trees form a perfect picnic spot.
Pets Allowed
Yes
Pets must be on a leash that is no more than six feet long and pet owners must dispose of waste in a trash can.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Natherlands Carillon, George Washington Memorial Parkway
George Washington Memorial Parkway, Arlington, VA 22209
Directions
The Netherlands Carillon is in Virginia near Arlington National Cemetery.
By Car
From VA 110 south turn right onto Marshall Drive, then follow signs for the US Marine Corps War Memorial.
From US 50 east take the exit for Rosslyn and the Key Bridge. Turn right onto Meade Street at the top of the ramp. Turn left on Marshall Drive, then follow the signs for the US Marine Corps War Memorial.
From US 50 west cross into Virginia on the Roosevelt Bridge and take the exit for Rosslyn and the Key Bridge. Turn left onto Meade Street at the top of the ramp. Turn left on Marshall Drive, then follow the signs for the US Marine Corps War Memorial.
Parking is available at the US Marine Corps War Memorial. Buses should load and unload in the inner lane.
By Metro
The carillon is a 10-15 minute walk from either the Rosslyn or Arlington National Cemetery Metro station.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Day
The carillon grounds are open year-round from 6 am until midnight.
For their safety, members of the general public cannot climb to the top of the bell tower.
Accessibility Information
If your questions concerning accessibility are unanswered after reading this webpage, please contact us at 703-289-2500 or e-mail us.
Service Animals
Service animals are allowed in national parks. For a definition of a service animal, please see the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) definition.
Facilities
Handicap accessible parking is located at the US Marine Corps War Memorial. There are 3 wheelchair accessible parking spaces. From the parking area, there are two trails leading to the Carillon, one of which is handicap accessible. The paths surrounding the monument are asphalt.
Programs
Assistive listening devices, or large print brochures may be available by request or with advance notice. For information about individual park programs, please visit park websites. Accessibility information is located under the Plan Your Visit tab.
This simple dedication on the Netherlands Carillon expresses the gratitude of the Dutch people for American aid received during and after World War II. The carillon itself symbolizes a friendship between the people of two countries, a friendship so rooted in a common allegiance to the principles of freedom, justice, and democracy that it can weather any temporary differences of opinion.
The 50 bells of the Netherlands Carillon hang in an open steel tower, a symbol of Dutch regard for American aid during and after World War II. The carillon's peaceful setting, with its floral libraries and sculpted lions, is the perfect place to listen to the music of the bells.
The grounds of the Netherlands Carillon offer sweeping views of Washington, DC. In temperate weather the grassy slope and large shade trees form a perfect picnic spot.
Scenic Views In the City
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US Marine Corps War MemorialFrom Arlington Ridge, experience a panoramic view of iconic DC architecture behind the US Marine Corps War Memorial.
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Meridian Hill ParkMeridian Hill Park offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation and fresh air.
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Tidal BasinOne of the best places to view the Jefferson Memorial and the Washington Monument is from the Tidal Basin.
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Georgetown Waterfront ParkGeorgetown Waterfront Park stretches along the banks of the Potomac River from 31st Street NW to the Key Bridge.
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Old Post Office TowerFind a new perspective at the top of the Old Post Office Tower.
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Arlington HouseGaze across the river that once divided us, from the steps of Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial.
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Frederick Douglass HomeTalk to a ranger, tour Frederick Douglass's home or walk the grounds for a sweeping view of Washington D.C.
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National Mall and Memorial ParksAttend a Ranger Program, paddle in the Tidal Basin, or dive into history at memorials and monuments on the National Mall.
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Mount Vernon TrailA run, walk, or cycle alongside the Potomac River offers uninterrupted views of Washington, D.C.'s skyline.
Last updated: May 5, 2017