Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards

Arlington National Cemetery is a solemn and hallowed ground, honoring the brave men and women who have served the United States. The walking tour and Changing of the Guards ceremony offer visitors a profound and immersive experience, guiding them through the cemetery’s rich history and significant gravesites. With a knowledgeable guide, small groups can explore the site’s profound legacy, from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to the former home of Robert E. Lee. This tour provides a unique opportunity to connect with the sacrifices that have shaped the nation’s history.

Key Points

• Immersive experience showcasing the Changing of the Guards ceremony and visitation of notable gravesites at Arlington National Cemetery.
• Tour covers approximately 2 miles and includes a dedicated 20-minute stop at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
• Professional guide provides engaging historical insights and access to the former home of Confederate General Robert E. Lee.
• Moderate physical fitness required, as the tour involves 2 miles of walking and is not wheelchair accessible.
• Highly rated with positive feedback on knowledgeable guides and the impactful educational experience, making it suitable for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour offers visitors an immersive experience, featuring the iconic Changing of the Guards ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns, as well as explorations of notable gravesites and historical landmarks.

Highly recommended with a 97% rating, the guided tour provides personal service for groups of up to 15 people, covering approximately 2 miles over 2-2.5 hours.

Highlights include the gravesites of John F. Kennedy, the USS Maine, and World War II hero Audie Murphy, as well as the former home of Confederate General Robert E. Lee.

The tour emphasizes the solemn nature of the cemetery.

Tour Details and Itinerary

The Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour commences at 1 Memorial Ave, Fort Myer, VA 22211, USA, where visitors gather to embark on this comprehensive exploration. The tour includes 15 minutes at the cemetery, 1 hour 30 minutes exploring significant sites, and 20 minutes at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Travelers will visit the grave of John F. Kennedy and other notable gravesites. A professional guide is provided, and entry to Arlington House is included.

Tour Details	Included
Duration	2-2.5 hours
Distance	Approximately 2 miles
Group Size	Limited to 15

Expectations and Preparation

What should visitors expect and prepare for when embarking on the Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour?

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour covers approximately 2 miles over 2-2.5 hours. The tour operates rain or shine, so visitors should dress appropriately for the weather.

While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Visitors should be prepared to exercise caution and respect the solemn nature of the cemetery, as they explore the historic grounds and witness the Changing of the Guards ceremony.

Reviews and Recommendations

How does the Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour fare in the eyes of its past visitors?

With a 4.9 rating out of 2,194 reviews, the tour earns high praise from travelers. Visitors commonly highlight the knowledgeable guides and engaging historical insights.

The solemnity of the Changing of the Guards ceremony is a tour standout. First-time visitors and history enthusiasts alike recommend this tour for its ability to provide an immersive and meaningful experience at the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery.

The tour’s high recommendation rate reflects its ability to deliver an educational and impactful exploration of this iconic American landmark.

Booking Information

Prices for the Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour vary based on group size, with a lowest price guarantee offered.

Travelers can reserve their spot with flexible payment options available. The tour includes a professional guide, with gratuities and transportation covered.

Free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for visitors.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers per group, ensuring a more personal and intimate experience.

Booking in advance is recommended, as the tours are popular and availability may be limited, especially during peak tourist seasons.

The Changing of the Guards Ceremony

The Changing of the Guards Ceremony is the focal point of the Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour, captivating visitors with its solemn and precise ritual.

The ceremony takes place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where soldiers of the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment stand guard 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The changing of the guard occurs every hour on the hour, with the outgoing soldier saluting the Tomb and the incoming soldier taking his place with a series of ceremonial steps and movements.

Witnessing this time-honored tradition is a moving experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it.

Significant Gravesites at Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is home to the gravesites of many notable historical figures, each with their own compelling stories. Visitors can pay their respects at the resting places of renowned individuals, including:

Gravesites	Notable Figures
John F. Kennedy	35th U.S. President
Audie Murphy	Most Decorated U.S. Soldier in WWII
USS Maine	Crew members lost in the 1898 sinking
Robert E. Lee	Confederate General

These sites offer a solemn and moving experience, allowing visitors to reflect on the extraordinary lives and sacrifices of those interred within the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery.

The Legacy of Robert E. Lee’s Former Home

Nestled within the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery, a historic landmark stands as a testament to the complex legacy of the American Civil War. This landmark is the former home of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, now known as Arlington House.

The home’s history is multifaceted, reflecting both the grandeur of the antebellum South and the divisive nature of the war that tore the nation apart. Visitors to the cemetery can explore the following aspects of Arlington House:

1. Architectural significance
2. Lee’s life and military career
3. Enslaved individuals who lived at the estate
4. The transformation of the property into a national cemetery

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the walking tour, though visitors are advised to be respectful and avoid disrupting the solemn atmosphere, especially during the Changing of the Guards ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Bringing food and drinks on the tour is generally not recommended. Tour participants are advised to refrain from consuming food or beverages during the walking tour out of respect for the solemn nature of the cemetery.

Are Guided Tours Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour company offers guided tours in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and German, to accommodate visitors from diverse backgrounds. Specific language options may vary, so it’s recommended to inquire about availability when booking the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children due to the moderate physical fitness required and the sobering nature of the gravesites and Changing of the Guards ceremony. It is recommended for older children and adults with a keen interest in history.

Can I Join the Tour if I Arrive Late?

Participants who arrive late may have difficulty joining the tour, as the group size is limited and the guide will be moving through the itinerary on a set schedule. Late arrivals should contact the tour operator for options.

The Sum Up

The Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards offers an immersive experience, exploring significant gravesites and witnessing the revered Changing of the Guards ceremony. With a knowledgeable guide, visitors embark on an engaging journey through American history, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike. The tour provides a profound and solemn experience, highlighting the beauty and legacy of this historic site.