Step into America's history with a semi-private guided tour of Arlington National Cemetery. Witness the iconic Changing of the Guard and explore the stories behind the nation's heroes in a moving 2.5-hour walk through this sacred site.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be able to walk moderate distances over uneven surfaces and some stairs without assistance.
Wildlife
History
The cemetery was established during the Civil War in 1864 on the grounds of Confederate General Robert E. Lee's estate to resolve overcrowding at Union cemeteries.
Conservation
Arlington National Cemetery actively practices sustainable landscaping and habitat preservation to maintain its historic and natural significance while minimizing environmental impact.
Babylon Tours Washington D.C.
Step into America's history with a semi-private guided tour of Arlington National Cemetery. Witness the iconic Changing of the Guard and explore the stories behind the nation's heroes in a moving 2.5-hour walk through this sacred site.
Babylon Tours Washington D.C. offers guided private and semi-private tours in Washington, District of Columbia. The company leads museum tours of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Archives, plus guided walking tours of Arlington National Cemetery, the National Mall, National Gallery of Art, and Capitol Hill. Tours are presented as private or semi-private experiences; several listings note private 2–2.5 hour durations and small-group limits—semi-private tours are limited to eight guests for National Mall combos and up to 12 guests for Arlington Cemetery. Many family-friendly options are available, including private museum tours designed for children and multigenerational groups. Listings describe tours guided by an expert, with commentary on artifacts such as the T. rex skeleton, the Hope Diamond, the Declaration of Independence, the Wright Flyer, and Neil Armstrong’s spacesuit. Arlington Cemetery tours include visits to gravesites of President John F. Kennedy and Audie Murphy and observation of the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Combo itineraries combine walking routes on the National Mall with visits to the National Gallery of Art or Capitol Hill sites such as the Supreme Court and Library of Congress. Babylon Tours Washington D.C. presents clear trip summaries with duration, format, and highlights, enabling travelers to choose private or semi-private options tailored to families, history enthusiasts, and art or aviation fans.
Booking information lists private and semi-private formats, making it straightforward to select duration, group size, and tour focus before travel dates.
Location
Washington, D.C.
Tours based in the nation’s capital
Tours Offered
11 trips
Private and semi-private itineraries
Typical Durations
2–5.5 hours
Short to half-day options
Group Size
Semi-private & Private
Limits to 8–12 guests
Select a family-friendly Smithsonian, Arlington, or National Mall tour and secure a private or semi-private booking for the best itinerary.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Arrive at least 10 minutes before departure to meet your guide by the Arlington Cemetery Welcome Center gates.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour covers uneven terrain and stairs; sturdy, comfortable footwear is highly recommended.
Prepare for Weather
Tours run rain or shine, so bring rain gear or sun protection depending on the forecast.
Respect the Grounds
Observe decorum on hallowed ground; photography is allowed but remain respectful near graves and memorials.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Necessary due to the cemetery’s uneven paths and stairways.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Dress in layers and bring rain or sun protection as the tour operates regardless of conditions.
Water Bottle
Helpful for hydration during warmer months while walking.
summer
Photo ID
Required for entry and ticket verification at the meeting point.