The memorial grounds are open year-round from 6 am until midnight.

Based on an iconic image of the second flag-raising on the island of Iwo Jima during World War II, the US Marine Corps War Memorial is dedicated to "the Marine dead of all wars and their comrades of other services who fell fighting beside them."

During the summer, the US Marine Corps holds Sunset Parades at the Memorial every Tuesday evening in 2023 from June 6 to August 1 (except for July 4) at 7 p.m.

The Sunset Parades are a one hour performance, featuring the music of "The Commandant's Own", The United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps and precision drill by the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon.