Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most sacred and moving places in the United States, the final resting place of more than 400,000 service members and their families across the river from Washington, D.C. Around patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July and Memorial Day, it draws visitors from all over the country. Here is what to see at Arlington, how to visit respectfully, and how to fit it into a trip to the capital.
What to see at Arlington National Cemetery
- The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Guarded around the clock by soldiers of the Old Guard, this is the emotional heart of the cemetery and a place of profound respect.
- The Changing of the Guard. The precise, silent ceremony at the Tomb is the most-watched moment at Arlington and takes place throughout the day.
- President John F. Kennedy’s grave. Marked by the Eternal Flame, on a hillside with a sweeping view back toward the city.
- Arlington House. The historic mansion overlooking the grounds, with views across the Potomac to the National Mall.
- The Memorial Amphitheater. The setting for the nation’s major remembrance ceremonies.
The Changing of the Guard
If you see one thing at Arlington, make it the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The sentinels keep watch every hour of every day, in every weather, and the handoff ceremony is carried out with extraordinary discipline and precision. Onlookers are asked to remain silent and standing as a sign of respect.
How to visit Arlington
Admission is free, and the cemetery is easily reached from central Washington. Because the grounds are vast and hilly, many visitors use the tram tour to reach the main sites, then explore key areas on foot. Remember that this is an active cemetery and a place of mourning, so quiet, respectful conduct is expected throughout. Allow at least two to three hours for a meaningful visit.
Make it part of a Washington, D.C. trip
Arlington pairs naturally with the monuments and museums of the National Mall for a deeply patriotic few days, especially around the Fourth of July; see our guide to the best places to celebrate the Fourth of July. An Atlas advisor can plan the whole D.C. trip, including tours and hotels, for a family or a group. Call 1-800-942-3301 or email groups@atlastravelweb.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highlights are the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and its Changing of the Guard, President John F. Kennedy’s grave with the Eternal Flame, historic Arlington House, and the Memorial Amphitheater, all set among the graves of more than 400,000 service members.
No. Admission is free. A paid tram tour is available to help you reach the main sites across the large, hilly grounds, but walking the cemetery costs nothing.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded 24 hours a day, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place regularly throughout the day. Visitors are asked to stand quietly out of respect.
Plan for at least two to three hours. The grounds are extensive, and the main sites, especially the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, deserve unhurried time.
Yes. An Atlas advisor can build a D.C. itinerary around Arlington and the National Mall, with tours and hotels arranged for your family or group. Call 1-800-942-3301 or email groups@atlastravelweb.com.
