Experience Arlington National Cemetery: Private Guided Walking Tour & Changing of the Guard Ceremony
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for those with moderate fitness, able to walk uneven terrain and stairs at a steady pace.
Overview
Explore Arlington National Cemetery with a private guide and witness the Moving Changing of the Guard ceremony. Discover iconic memorials and hidden stories on this intimate 2.5-hour walking tour just outside Washington, D.C.
Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard - Guided Walking Tour - Private
2.5 hrs | Daily
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience a profound journey through Arlington National Cemetery on this private 2.5-hour walking tour. Guided by an expert, visit the graves of iconic figures like President John F. Kennedy and Audie Murphy, witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and reflect at the Space Shuttle Memorials.
Book way in advance - we sell out
Rates
- Adult: - $79 - $229
- Youth: - $79 (Ages 10 - 17)
- Child: - $75 (9 and under)
Duration
- 2.5 hours
Meeting Point
- By the gates of the Arlington Cemetery Welcome
About
- A sobering reminder of the realities of war, but a stunningly beautiful tribute, the Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place of over 400,000 service members and their families.
- This private walking tour enables you to explore the grounds, which once belonged to General Robert E. Lee – don’t worry, we’ll tell you who he was, as well as many other of its permanent inhabitants.
- This tour is in English.
Includes
Private Walking Tour Professional Tour Guide Exclusively For You Duration 2.5 Hours Tour Will Run, Rain Or Shine
Excludes
Tour price does NOT include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend UBER or Taxi) Tour price does NOT include gratuities (optional)
Full Tour Description
A sobering reminder of the realities of war, but a stunningly beautiful tribute, the Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place of over 400,000 service members and their families. This private guided walking tour enables you to explore the grounds, which once belonged to General Robert E. Lee – don’t worry, we’ll tell you who he was, as well as many other of its permanent inhabitants.
Learn about the more famous tombs of President John F. Kennedy, soldier Audie Murphy, and military genius General William Sheridan on this private tour. We’ll even explore a few less known graves, like that of famed boxer Joe Louis. Along with a few carefully selected residents, your engaging guide will take you to the Tomb of the Unknowns where you may even witness a Changing of the Guard ceremony. Visit the more modern memorials to the victims of the space shuttles Columbia and Challenger while walking these hallowed grounds.
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The cemetery includes uneven paths and stairs, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour's start to meet your guide at the Welcome Center gates.
Prepare for Weather
Tours run rain or shine; bring layers, a hat, or umbrella depending on the forecast.
Respect the Space
This is a sacred site — maintain decorum, speak softly, and follow guide instructions at all times.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban squirrels
- Various songbirds common to the park-like grounds
History
The grounds were once the estate of Robert E. Lee before becoming a national military cemetery after the Civil War in 1864.
Conservation
Arlington National Cemetery maintains strict preservation practices to protect the integrity of gravesites and natural landscapes, emphasizing respectful visitor behavior to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Washington, D.C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating the varied cemetery terrain including stairs and uneven ground.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Dress in layers and bring rain gear or sun protection as needed.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the 2.5-hour outdoor tour, especially in warmer months.
summer specific
Photo ID or Passport Copy
Required to enter the cemetery and for tour check-in verification.