Arlington Cemetery & Changing of Guard Small-Group Walking

Exploring Arlington National Cemetery and witnessing the solemn Changing of the Guard ceremony is a profound and moving experience. This small-group walking tour offers visitors a guided journey through the hallowed grounds, revealing the cemetery’s historical significance and honoring the brave men and women who have served their country. Led by knowledgeable professionals, the tour transports participants to moments of reverence and reflection, leaving a lasting impression. For those seeking a meaningful connection to America’s military legacy, this immersive experience provides a window into the heart of the nation’s most sacred burial site.

Key Points

• Guided 2.5-hour walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery, including the President John F. Kennedy Gravesite and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Changing of the Guard ceremony.
• Small-group format led by a professional, licensed tour guide for personalized interaction and engaging storytelling about the cemetery’s history and significance.
• Covers key landmarks such as Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial, and provides insights into military funerals and Medal of Honor recipients.
• Tour not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain, but private tours are available for accessibility needs.
• High traveler satisfaction rating of 4.9/5 for the guided experience, with praise for the guide’s narration and well-timed itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Arlington Cemetery & Changing of Guard Small-Group Walking Tour is a 2.5-hour guided experience that immerses visitors in the rich history and solemn significance of Arlington National Cemetery.

Priced from $65 per person, the tour is conducted in English and offers the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Participants can reserve their spot with no upfront payment, paying later.

The tour highlights key landmarks like the President John F. Kennedy Gravesite, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Arlington House, delivering an informative and personal exploration of this hallowed ground.

Key Stops

The tour kicks off at the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center, where the group sets out to explore the site’s key landmarks.

The first stop is the President John F. Kennedy Gravesite, where visitors spend 15 minutes learning about the former leader’s legacy.

Next, the group heads to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where they witness the solemn Changing of the Guard ceremony for 30 minutes.

The tour then proceeds to the Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial, providing insights into the property’s historical significance.

Along the way, the guide shares information about military funerals, Medal of Honor recipients, and the symbolism on the headstones.

Optionally, participants can embark on a self-guided audio tour to the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial.

Guided Experience

A professional, licensed tour guide leads the walking tour, providing a personal and engaging experience for visitors. The small group size allows for detailed exploration and interactive storytelling about the cemetery’s history and significance. Participants can expect to learn about military funerals, Medal of Honor recipients, and the symbolism behind the headstones.

Key Features	Description
Guided by Expert	Professional, licensed tour guide
Small Group Size	Allows for personal touch and detailed exploration
Engaging Storytelling	Interactive narrative about the cemetery’s history and significance
Informative Content	Learn about military ceremonies, honors, and symbolism

The tour’s high satisfaction rating of 4.9/5 based on traveler reviews underscores the guide’s ability to deliver an enriching and memorable experience.

Traveler Reviews

Travelers overwhelmingly praise the guided walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery, with a stellar 4.9/5 rating based on reviews.

Participants highlight the tour guide’s engaging storytelling and well-timed itinerary, allowing for a detailed exploration of the cemetery’s key sites. The small group size is noted as a particular strength, providing a more personal touch compared to larger tours.

Reviewers appreciate learning about military funerals, Medal of Honor recipients, and the symbolic meanings behind headstones.

While some mention a lack of complimentary water, the overall experience is described as positive, with travelers leaving with a deeper understanding and appreciation for Arlington’s hallowed grounds.

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Important Information

Meeting point for the Arlington Cemetery Walking Tour is outside the Arlington Cemetery Welcome Center, where participants should look for the guide dressed in orange.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but private tours are available for those requiring accommodations.

Visitors are recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves significant walking, and non-folding strollers aren’t allowed.

The tour includes:

1. A professional, licensed guide who provides engaging storytelling and a well-timed itinerary.
2. Bottled water, although some reviews have mentioned a lack of water.
3. Gratuities, which aren’t included in the tour price.

Included Features

The Arlington Cemetery Walking Tour includes a professional, licensed guide who provides engaging storytelling and a well-timed itinerary for the duration of the 2.5-hour excursion.

Guests receive a complimentary bottle of water, though some reviews mention the lack of additional water.

Gratuities for the guide aren’t included in the tour price.

Meeting Point

Visitors meet their guide outside the Arlington Cemetery Welcome Center, where they can look for the individual in an orange shirt. This clear meeting point allows the tour to depart on time and ensures no one gets left behind.

The group will then embark on their journey to explore the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery.

Some key things to keep in mind at the meeting point:

1. Arrive a few minutes early to ensure you don’t miss the start of the tour.
2. Look for the guide’s distinctive orange shirt, which will help you identify them quickly.
3. Be prepared with any questions you may have, as the guide will be happy to provide information and guidance.

Accessibility

Unfortunately, the Arlington Cemetery Walking Tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

The walking tour covers a significant amount of ground, including uneven terrain and hills, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues.

However, the tour operator does offer private tours that can be customized to accommodate specific needs, such as wheelchair accessibility.

While the standard tour may not be accessible for all, the company is committed to ensuring that all visitors can experience the beauty and history of Arlington National Cemetery.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and leave non-folding strollers at home to ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the solemn atmosphere or blocking the view of others. Some restrictions may apply at certain locations.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

No formal dress code is specified, but the tour guide recommends wearing comfortable shoes as there’s extensive walking. Avoid clothing that’s too casual or disrespectful, as the tour takes place at a solemn military cemetery.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour does not provide meals, but guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks. However, participants should be mindful of any restricted areas or rules regarding consuming food and beverages on the tour grounds.

How Many People Are in the Small Group?

The small group for this tour typically ranges from 8 to 15 participants. The tour emphasizes a personal touch, allowing for detailed exploration of the key sites within the 2.5-hour duration.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages?

The tour is only available in English. It doesn’t offer multilingual options, according to the information provided. The tour highlights and itinerary are conducted solely in English by a professional, licensed guide.

Recap

The Arlington Cemetery & Changing of Guard Small-Group Walking Tour offers a captivating 2.5-hour exploration of the cemetery’s historical significance. Visitors will discover key landmarks, culminating in the poignant Changing of the Guard ceremony. With a small group format, the guided experience provides a meaningful and personalized understanding of military honors and memorials. This tour is a profound and insightful way to experience the iconic Arlington Cemetery.

You can check if your dates are available here: