American Memorial Park
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For a true tropical experience, check out Saipan, which in terms of latitude, is halfway between Hawaii and the equator. Saipan, part of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), is a glittering jewel on the deep blue of the western Pacific Ocean. The indigenous people of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands are called Chamorro, and a large Carolinian Islands population has also lived on the island since the 1800s. Victory in Pacific Theater for WWII was due in large part to the US capturing the Northern Mariana Islands, and the American Memorial Park pays tribute to that fact. The CNMI consists of three islands: Saipan, at a whopping 44 square miles; Tinian, with 39 square miles; and Rota, with 33 square miles.
Things To Do Near American Memorial Park
The American Memorial Park was built to honor the people who gave their lives during the Marianas Campaign of World War II. This 133-acre park conserves historical structures, such as Japanese bunkers, called pillboxes, fuel storage tanks, bunkers, and a bathhouse/garden complex. The main focus, however, is the inscribed memorials. At the visitor's center, you'll find interactive displays detailing the history of these islands and the specific role the region played in WWII. The park is designed as a living memorial. Within its boundaries, you can enjoy picnicking, fishing, swimming, photography, water sports, tennis, jogging, and bicycling.
The majority of the park is open-air, designed to let you stroll from one area to another at your leisure. Keep in mind that the tropical sun is very intense, though. It is suggested to wear a hat and sunglasses in addition to plenty of sunscreen or sun-protective clothing.
Hiking Trails
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American Memorial Park Scenic Pathway
This paved walkway winds through the park, showcasing the unique biodiversity of the area. You will pass Australian pines, ironwood groves, banana plants, cycads, noni trees, palms, and plumeria trees. In shaded areas, you can discover a range of ferns. Seasonally, hibiscus and flame trees add blasts of color. The path also passes the mangrove forest and wetland. Along the way, you'll find picnic benches to enjoy the view. Unlike Guam, where most birds were wiped out by the brown tree snake, the park hosts 18 species of birds, including the Micronesian starling and federally protected Mariana moorhen and Mariana nightingale reed warbler.
Location
Starts at the visitor center
Length
1.2 miles
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Micro Beach
Micro Beach has been used by the Carolinian population since their earliest migrations to teach traditional skills and crafts. With a wide, white sand beach, it is considered the best beach for families. Swimming and picnicking are major activities here.
Location
American Memorial Park
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Historical Waysides
You can travel to 12 waysides maintained by the American Memorial Park. These sites commemorate different events from WWII. You will find descriptions of American and Japanese troop movements, points of interest that include artifacts and architectural remains, and the location of camps. Pick up a brochure at the American Memorial Park Visitor Center for a map of the locations.
Location
From Marpi in the north to Mt. Tapotchao in the center to Aslito Airfield in the south.
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The Grotto
This underwater limestone cavern is a world-class snorkeling and diving spot. The huge cavern is lit by a natural skylight in the limestone dome. Most people join one of the local tours, which include a dive/snorkel guide and underwater photography. You will encounter an abundance of marine life, and you might even spot a sea turtle.
Location
Grotto Drive, Saipan
Museums
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Memorial Court of Honor and Flag Circle
This memorial was dedicated on June 15, 1994, the 50th anniversary of the American landings on Saipan. The American flag is in the center, and it is surrounded by the flags of the American armed forces that participated in the campaign: the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army, and U.S. Coast Guard. Around the base of the pedestal that holds the flags, 26 granite panels are inscribed with the names of 5,204 service personnel who perished to free the islands.
Location
American Memorial Park, Industrial Dr, Garapan, Saipan 96950,
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Saipan American Memorial and Carillon Bell Tower
The Saipan American Memorial was erected by the American Battle Monuments Commission. The 12-foot rose granite obelisk honors the American and Chamorro lives lost from June 15 to August 11, 1944, to liberate Guam, Saipan, and Tinian. The adjacent Carillon Bell Tower was dedicated in 1995 to mark the 50th anniversary of the end of WWII. Bells chime every half hour between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Location
American Memorial Park
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Marianas Memorial
June 13, 2004, finally saw a memorial dedicated to the indigenous Chamorro and Carolinians of the Northern Marianas whose lives were lost in war. On each of the 10 granite panels, 929 different names are inscribed. These make up the names of the people who died from the start of the American bombing of the island on June 11, 1944, through when the people were freed from prison camps on July 4, 1946.
Location
American Memorial Park
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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The Shack Saipan
The Shack offers traditional, home-style meals along with vegetarian and vegan options. Stop in for Daily Plate Specials, sweet or savory crepes, or breakfast bowls. You can also get your favorite espresso drink or smoothie.
Location
Oleai Beach Road, Saipan
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Revolving Restaurant 360
From burgers and fries to fresh seafood, this restaurant offers a range of culinary options, including a full bar. The best part is the view. This is a great place to take in a meal or libation while watching breathtaking sunsets.
Location
8th Floor, Marianas Business Plaza Susupe, Saipan
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I Love Saipan
I Love Saipan is divided into several distinct shops. You can visit Sweets & Snacks or the Gift Shop. It also has a large clothing area with items ranging from souvenir t-shirts to island fashions. If you are hungry, you can also stop at the hot dog stand.
Location
Beach Road Alaihai Ave, Garapan, Saipan
How To Get To American Memorial Park
From the Saipan International Airport, proceed North on Airport Road (Tun Herman Pan Highway). When the road ends, turn left onto Monsignor Guerrero Road, which ends at Beach Road. Turn right onto Beach Road. Beach Road ends at American Memorial Park Mall. Turn right onto Micro Beach Road and follow that to the parking lot.
The park itself is open 24 hours a day. The Visitor Center is open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Visitor Center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day.
Address
P.O. Box 5198, Saipan, MP 96950
Fee: Entry fee $0
At American Memorial Park, you can choose your experience. It can be a profound learning venture about the sacrifices of war or a relaxing day with the family hanging out on the beach or playing tennis. No roads go to Saipan as it's an isolated island in the Pacific; however, a visit to this truly unique location will be a trip you and the family will never forget.