Washington,DC: Guided Arlington National Cemetery Tour

Explore the profound history of Arlington National Cemetery on a guided tour in the nation’s capital. Led by certified experts, this 2-hour journey offers an immersive look at significant sites like the John F. Kennedy gravesite and the iconic Changing of the Guard. Wheelchair-accessible and filled with engaging anecdotes, the tour provides a respectful tribute to over 400,000 veterans. Priced at $55 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s an enriching and flexible way to honor military sacrifices. But what makes this tour truly unforgettable?

Key Points

• Guided 2-hour tour of Arlington National Cemetery, covering key historical landmarks and the significance of the largest military cemetery in the U.S.
• Tour led by certified experts, providing engaging insights into the cemetery’s history, symbolism, and the sacrifices of those honored.
• Highlights include visiting the John F. Kennedy gravesite, witnessing the Changing of the Guard, and exploring the Arlington House memorial.
• Tour is wheelchair-accessible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now & pay later" option.
• Tour begins at the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center, with mandatory security clearance and adherence to cemetery rules.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

The guided Arlington National Cemetery tour offers visitors an intimate and informative exploration of this hallowed ground.

Priced from $55 per person, the 2-hour tour provides a comprehensive look at the cemetery’s history and significance.

Led by certified experts, the tour covers key highlights, including the John F. Kennedy gravesite, the Changing of the Guard ceremony, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Arlington House memorial.

Wheelchair-accessible and with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour emphasizes the privacy and comfort of its participants.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or seeking a deeper understanding, this guided experience promises an enriching and meaningful journey through America’s most revered military cemetery.

Cemetery Significance

Arlington National Cemetery stands as the largest military cemetery in the U.S., serving as the final resting place for over 400,000 veterans from various conflicts, including the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, World Wars I and II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, and the American Civil War.

The cemetery’s significance is poignantly reflected in three key aspects:

1. It honors the sacrifices of those who served and died for their country.
2. It serves as a place of solemn reflection and tribute for visitors.
3. It stands as a symbol of the nation’s deep respect and gratitude for its military heroes.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting the guided tour at the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center, visitors are led on a journey through the hallowed grounds, encountering several poignant highlights along the way.

The tour includes a visit to the gravesite of President John F. Kennedy, a solemn experience marked by the eternal flame burning at his resting place.

Guests then witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a ritual of precision and reverence.

The tour also features a stop at the Arlington House, a memorial dedicated to General Robert E. Lee that offers a window into the complex history of the site.

Experience and Guide

Guided by a certified expert, the tour immerses participants in engaging anecdotes and historical tales about the hallowed grounds.

The guide’s emphasis is on ensuring the privacy and comfort of each individual, allowing them to fully enjoy the experience.

The tour offers:

1. Captivating stories that bring the cemetery’s rich history to life.
2. Insights into the significance and symbolism of the various landmarks.
3. A personalized approach that caters to the unique interests and needs of the group.

The combination of knowledgeable guidance and a considerate, tailored experience ensures that visitors leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Arlington National Cemetery.

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Booking and Meeting Information

Visitors can check availability for starting times on the tour’s booking platform.

The meeting point is outside the visitor’s center on the cemetery side after passing through security. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for the tour.

The cemetery is wheelchair accessible, and the tour is offered in English. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a "reserve now & pay later" option is available.

The guided tour lasts 2 hours and provides an in-depth exploration of the cemetery’s history and significance, led by a certified expert who shares engaging anecdotes and historical tales.

Starting Location and Security

The tour begins at the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center, located on the cemetery grounds.

Visitors must pass through security before proceeding to the meeting point for the guided tour. This security checkpoint involves:

1. Presenting a valid government-issued photo ID.
2. Passing through a metal detector and having bags inspected.
3. Adhering to the cemetery’s rules and regulations, which prohibit certain items such as weapons, alcohol, and large bags.

Once visitors clear security, they can gather outside the visitor’s center on the cemetery side, where the tour guide will be waiting to begin the captivating journey through this hallowed ground.

Attire Recommendations

When visiting Arlington National Cemetery, it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing.

The grounds can cover a significant distance, so sturdy, supportive shoes are a must. Plus, the weather in the Washington, DC area can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers and bringing along a jacket or sweater is advised.

Avoid wearing anything too formal or dressy, as the tour is focused on the history and significance of the cemetery, not fashion. Comfort and practicality should be the top priorities when selecting attire for this guided tour.

Following these simple guidelines will ensure you’re prepared to fully engage with the experience and learn about this hallowed ground.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

For the guided Arlington National Cemetery tour, the price includes a 2-hour walking tour led by a certified expert guide.

The tour covers several key highlights, such as:

1. The gravesite of President John F. Kennedy
2. The Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
3. A visit to the Arlington House, a memorial dedicated to General Robert E. Lee

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Plus, there’s a reserve now and pay later option available, providing flexibility for tour bookings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos throughout the tour, except during the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier where photography is prohibited out of respect.

Is Food or Drink Allowed in the Cemetery?

Food and drink aren’t generally allowed in Arlington National Cemetery. Visitors should respect the solemn nature of the site and refrain from consuming items while touring the grounds. Water is permitted, but all other food and beverages are prohibited.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

No, the tour duration is fixed at 2 hours. However, visitors can opt to explore the cemetery further on their own after the guided tour ends if they’d like to spend more time there.

Are Pets Permitted on the Tour?

Pets are not permitted on the guided Arlington National Cemetery tour. The tour is focused on providing an informative and respectful experience, and the presence of pets would not be appropriate for the solemn nature of the cemetery.

How Do I Get to the Meeting Point From the Metro?

To reach the meeting point from the metro, visitors can take the Metrorail to the Arlington Cemetery station. The visitor’s center is just a short walk from the metro station’s entrance, making it easy to access the tour starting point.

Recap

The guided tour of Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, DC offers a unique opportunity to explore the profound history and significance of this hallowed ground. Visitors can expect an enriching and respectful experience, led by knowledgeable guides who share engaging anecdotes about the cemetery’s most prominent sites. With flexible booking and wheelchair accessibility, this tour provides an insightful tribute to the sacrifices of America’s veterans.

You can check if your dates are available here: