Plizio Visual Lab

Mỹ Lai Massacre Memorial

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

monument

Weather…

The My Lai Massacre Memorial in Son My commune commemorates one of the darkest chapters in modern military history. On March 16, 1968, US soldiers from Task Force Barker murdered over 500 unarmed civilians, including women, children, and the elderly. The massacre was initially covered up and only became worldwide knowledge a year later through investigative reporting, which massively intensified opposition to the Vietnam War. Today's memorial includes a museum exhibiting personal items of the victims and shocking photographs. In the outdoor area, visitors can see the foundations of destroyed homes and the drainage ditches where many victims were executed. A central monument depicts a woman holding a slain child as a symbol of the immense suffering. The site now serves as a center for peace and reconciliation, where former soldiers and survivors gather to remember the importance of humanity during conflicts.

Location: Vietnam
Top sights: NTT house · My Khe · Hải đăng Sa Kỳ
Nearby: Ly Son (27 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	21	22	24	26	28	28	28	28	27	25	24	22
Rain mm	61	22	28	37	69	75	99	137	271	429	392	200

📋 Practical info

🚪

Visiting

The Mỹ Lai Massacre Memorial is an important commemorative site, free to visit. The site features a memorial plaque, a small museum, and a path through the former village.

🕒

Typical hours

The memorial is typically open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a lunch break from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. It is advisable to check exact times in advance as they may vary seasonally.

📷

Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the site, but out of respect for the victims, avoid selfies or cheerful shots. The atmosphere is somber; focus on the memorial elements.

⏱️

Time needed

A visit typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes. Take time to view the museum exhibits and the memorial plaque, and to pause in reflection.

➕

Combine with

The memorial is in Quảng Ngãi Province and can be combined with a visit to nearby Mỹ Khê beaches or the Cham temple of Mỹ Sơn. Quảng Ngãi city also has further sights.

🧭

Getting there

The memorial is about 12 kilometers from Quảng Ngãi city and is reachable by taxi or motorbike. A rental car gives flexibility, and the road is paved.

💡

Insider tip

Visit the memorial with a respectful attitude and take time for the exhibition explaining the background of the massacre. Local guides can provide detailed insights; ask at the entrance.

Geography

Coordinates

15.17000, 108.88000

Facts

A total of 504 civilians were killed during the massacre on March 16, 1968.
The memorial is located in Quang Ngai Province in the village of Son My.
Ron Haeberle documented the events with his camera, providing crucial evidence later.
Hugh Thompson Jr., a helicopter pilot, saved several civilians from death.
The central monument on the grounds was designed by sculptor Hoang Thanh.
The site was officially opened to the public in the year 1978.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Dung Quat Refinery13 km · SWExplore →

Ly Son27 km · NExplore →

An Khê49 km · SEExplore →

Thăng An Commune58 km · SExplore →

South Quy Nhon Ward63 km · NEExplore →

Hòn Khô Island63 km · NEExplore →

Quy Nhon Port65 km · NEExplore →

Trà Quế Vegetable Village65 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Mỹ Lai Massacre Memorial (7)

NTT house 🎭 culture

The NTT house is a small theatre venue near the My Lai memorial area that hosts historical and community presentations.

My Khe 🎡 recreation

My Khe is a long, sweeping crescent of white sand near Quang Ngai, offering a tranquil coastline setting.

Hải đăng Sa Kỳ📍 landmark

The Sa Ky lighthouse is a vital navigational beacon standing guard over the rocky coastline near the Son My area.

Son My Museum 🏛 museum

The Son My Museum serves as a somber memorial preserving photographs and artifacts to document the tragic 1968 My Lai Massacre.

🕒 08:00-11:00,13:00-16:30

Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Buddha Statue ⛪ religious

This Buddhist place of worship features a prominent statue dedicated to the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara near the My Lai Memorial.

Thiên Ấn 📍 landmark

Situated atop its namesake hill near Quang Ngai, this Buddhist temple complex provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Hội Thánh Tin Lành Việt Nam - Chi hội thành phố Quãng Ngãi 📍 landmark

Serving the local Protestant community, this Christian church provides a gathering place for worship in Quang Ngai city.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is it suitable for families?

Not recommended for young children due to the somber theme.

Is there a museum?

Yes, there is an informative building right on-site.

How long is a visit?

About 1 hour is sufficient for the visit.

Do I need a guide?

A guide is helpful to understand the historical context.

When is it open?

Typically daily from 07:30 to 17:00.

Mỹ Lai Massacre Memorial: where is it located?

Mỹ Lai Massacre Memorial is located in Vietnam.

Mỹ Lai Massacre Memorial: what is there to see?

Highlights include NTT house, My Khe, Hải đăng Sa Kỳ.

Mỹ Lai Massacre Memorial: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Mỹ Lai Massacre Memorial: why is it worth visiting?

The My Lai Massacre Memorial in Son My commune commemorates one of the darkest chapters in modern military history.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Mỹ Lai Massacre Memorial

Best time to visit & climate