American Memorial Park, Northern Mariana Islands: A Far Flung National Park

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

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Located in the Northern Mariana Islands, the American Memorial Park is definitely more than a road-trip away, unlike so many other national parks. However, the park’s history, white sand beaches, and nature are worth the effort!

The park was built to honor the lives lost during World War II’s Marianas Campaign. The memorial with over 5,200 names inscribed on it, is a stark reminder of the sacrifices made here, as is the Carillon Belltower that chimes every half-hour for most of the day.

The island’s beauty adds to its poignancy. There’s a 30-acre wetland and mangrove forest (perfect for birdwatching and hiking). There’s also a white-sand beach and a marina for water-sports fans.

Where is it? In the Northern Mariana Islands, along Saipan’s western shoreline. Fly to Saipan’s International Airport(check prices).

Where to Stay? Stay nearby at theSaipan Hanamitsu Hotel and Spa .

What Else Should I Know? The visitor center is not open Monday and Tuesdays.

Who’s it For? Military history buffs, exotic beach-lovers.

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