Visit Arlington National Cemetery with one of DC's best guides!
Explore the profound history of America's most hallowed ground with a small group led by one of the area's top guides. Unlike riding tours or large bus groups, I make nearly 40 stops at notable graves and sites on this casual walking tour. This immersive tour offers unique insights and a richer understanding of the events that shaped the nation. Ideal for anyone seeking a small group experience and detailed narratives that larger groups often miss. Unlike 'drive by' tours, our guide takes you right to the Kennedy graves, the Changing of the Guard, the Space Shuttle memorials, Arlington House, and more! If Arlington National Cemetery has been on your 'bucket list', this is the tour for you.
- Small-group format for a more personalized experience
- Expert guide sharing in-depth historical knowledge
- Explore significant sites that shaped American history
- Perfect for history buffs or anyone wishing to explore Arlington
Options
Visit Arlington National Cemetery with one of DC's best guides!
What's included in Visit Arlington National Cemetery with one of DC's best guides!
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
On this 2.5 hour walking tour, guests will view the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, visit the Kennedy graves, see the mast of the USS Maine, stop at the memorials to the crews of 2 space shuttles, see the grave of WWII hero Audie Murphy, learn about the qualifications to be buried in Arlington, gain an understanding of how Arlington transitioned from a forest to a plantation to the country's largest military cemetery. View the former home of Civil War General Robert E. Lee. Learn how Arlington is planning for the future as it continues to be America's most hallowed ground. Wear comfortable walking shoes! There is some hilly terrain in the cemetery - though the entire tour is on paved roads and sidewalks. We tour in all kinds of weather.
Arlington House - The Robert E. Lee MemorialPass-by Only
The mansion is now a museum managed by the National Park Service. It is free and generally open the same hours as the cemetery. Our tours do not go in the house - but there will be plenty of time for you to explore at your own pace before the cemetery closes.
Military Women's MemorialPass-by Only
The Military Women's Memorial is near the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery. This is a wonderful museum honoring the more than 3 million women who have served in, and support, the United States military over of 250-year history. The museum is free and open to the public, generally the same hours as the cemetery - 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Our tour does not go inside as guests tend to view museums at their own pace.
Inclusions
- Each family receives a list of 120 fun things to do/places to dine - and a map of the National Mall!
- Each guest receives a complimentary rain poncho for inclement weather
- Each guest receives free 'cooling towel' on particularly hot days - with forecast of 90 degrees+
- Each family receives detailed 'Fact Sheet' about Arlington National Cemetery
- Arlington is accessible via the metro (blue line), uber, taxi, walking from the National Mall, or you can use the parking deck ($12 max for 3 hours). Parking is not included in your ticket price.
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Tours go 'rain or shine' - only canceled for severe weather
- This is a 100% walking tour - all outdoors. Dress for the weather!
- The guide makes many stops on the tour - but you will get in your 5,000 steps. Some moderate hills - on paved roads and sidewalks.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Our tours begin outside the Welcome Center. After clearing security, there are restrooms and a gift shop. Meet at the long, marble beach, outside, on the cemetery side of the building. Try to arrive 15-20 minutes early to clear security.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
I meet guests outside the Welcome Center near the long, marble bench on the side of the building toward the cemetery. I will check you in when you arrive. I suggest arriving 15-20 minutes prior to start time in order to clear security. Note that we must depart on time. The timing of the tour is based on the 'Changing of the Guard' at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
