Arlington Cemetery & Changing of Guard 2.5 Hour Walking Tour

Exploring the hallowed grounds of Arlington Cemetery can be a profoundly moving experience. The 2.5-hour walking tour offers visitors an insider’s perspective on this revered site, guiding them through key landmarks and sharing stories of bravery and sacrifice. From the Kennedy Gravesite to the iconic Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, each stop on the tour promises to leave a lasting impression. What awaits those who embark on this poignant journey through America’s history?

Key Points

• This 2.5-hour walking tour provides an in-depth exploration of Arlington National Cemetery, including the President John F. Kennedy Gravesite and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
• Guided by a professional, licensed guide, the tour focuses on the history, military funerals, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the cemetery.
• The tour also offers an optional visit to the Military Women’s Memorial and a self-guided audio tour of the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial.
• While the tour involves some stairs and hills, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, and non-folding strollers are not recommended.
• Gratuities for the guide are not included in the tour price but are suggested at 15-20% based on the guide’s performance and service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Arlington Cemetery & Changing of Guard 2.5 Hour Walking Tour" provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the iconic Arlington National Cemetery.

Lasting 2.5 hours, the tour costs $39 per person and is likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, allowing for flexibility. Customers can reserve their spot and pay later, making the experience accessible.

With a professional, licensed guide, the tour promises a leisurely pace and opportunities to learn about the cemetery’s history, military funerals, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Key Stops

According to the tour overview, the key stops on the Arlington Cemetery walking tour include the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center, the President John F. Kennedy Gravesite, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington House, and the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial.

Visitors spend 15 minutes at the Kennedy Gravesite, 30 minutes witnessing the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and 20 minutes at Arlington House.

There’s also an optional visit to the Military Women’s Memorial. The tour provides opportunities to hear stories of bravery and learn about military funerals and symbolism.

Experiences

What can visitors expect during the Arlington Cemetery walking tour?

Visitors will hear stories of bravery and sacrifice from the guide as they explore the cemetery. They’ll learn about the symbolism and significance of military funerals and headstones.

Visitors will hear stories of bravery and sacrifice as they learn about the symbolism of military funerals and headstones.

Throughout the tour, the guide will share the history of Arlington Cemetery and its importance. An optional self-guided audio tour allows visitors to explore the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial at their own pace.

The emphasis is on a leisurely pace with ample opportunities for questions, ensuring a meaningful and educational experience despite any weather conditions.

Tour Guide and Customer Experience

Guiding the Arlington Cemetery walking tour are professional, licensed guides who bring the history and significance of the grounds to life.

Reviews consistently praise the knowledge and engaging demeanor of the tour leaders, who emphasize a leisurely pace with ample opportunity for questions.

Travelers highlight the guides’ emphasis on the bravery and sacrifice of those interred, as well as the insights provided into military funerals and symbolism.

Despite varying weather conditions, customers report overwhelmingly positive experiences, with the tour earning an impressive 5-star rating based on 33 reviews.

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Accessibility and Restrictions

Although the Arlington Cemetery walking tour is designed for a leisurely pace, it may not be suitable for all visitors.

The Arlington Cemetery walking tour may not be suitable for all visitors, as it involves some stairs and hills.

The tour involves some stairs and hills, so it may not be accessible for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. Non-folding strollers are also not recommended.

The tour provider offers private tours for those with special needs, but these must be arranged in advance.

Visitors should be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity and be aware of the potential challenges posed by the terrain.

Additional Information

The tour meets outside the Arlington Cemetery Welcome Center after passing through security. Look for the tour guides in orange near the benches. The tour isn’t affiliated with the Welcome Center, so be sure to identify the correct group.

• Gratuities aren’t included in the tour price, so feel free to tip your guide at the end if you’re satisfied with the experience.

• Private tours are available for wheelchair users and those with non-folding strollers.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves some stairs and hills, though the pace is leisurely.

Meeting Point and Tour Provider

The tour meets outside the Arlington Cemetery Welcome Center after passing through security.

Guests should look for the tour guides in orange vests or shirts near the benches. The tour provider is independent of the Welcome Center, so it’s important to identify the right group. The guide will have a sign or badge to help attendees recognize them.

Once the group is assembled, the tour will begin its exploration of the cemetery’s landmarks and the moving Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Gratuities

Gratuities aren’t included in the tour price. While the tour guide’s expertise and personalized service are invaluable, tipping is at the discretion of each guest.

To determine an appropriate gratuity:

Consider the guide’s knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to enhance your experience. Reflect on how well they accommodated your needs throughout the tour. Use the industry standard of 15-20% of the tour price as a guideline.

• Consider the guide’s knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to enhance your experience.

• Reflect on how well they accommodated your needs throughout the tour.

• Use the industry standard of 15-20% of the tour price as a guideline.

Tipping allows you to show your appreciation for the guide’s hard work and commitment to providing a memorable tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and video recording are generally permitted during the tour, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the solemn atmosphere or interfering with the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Cemetery?

Food and drinks are generally allowed in the cemetery, but visitors are asked to be respectful and dispose of any trash properly. However, visitors should check the cemetery’s current policies before bringing in any outside items.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

There are public restroom facilities available at the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center, which is the meeting point for the tour. Tour participants can use these restrooms before and after the walking tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children, and Is There a Discount for Them?

The tour is suitable for children, though the pace may be tiring for younger ones. There’s no specific child discount, but kids under 5 can join for free. Parents should consider their child’s stamina and interest when deciding if this tour is appropriate.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Memorials or Exhibits?

You can extend the tour to visit additional memorials or exhibits, but this will require booking a private tour or arranging it separately. The standard group tour focuses on the key highlights at a leisurely pace.

The Sum Up

The Arlington Cemetery & Changing of Guard 2.5 Hour Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of one of America’s most revered sites. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides a meaningful experience, visiting key memorials and learning about the cemetery’s history and significance. With a leisurely pace, it’s an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel.

You can check availability for your dates here: