Arlington Cemetery Changing of the Guard (First Access)

The Changing of the Guard ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery is a solemn and moving ritual that honors the memory of America’s fallen heroes. For those seeking an exclusive and intimate experience, this tour provides first access to the ceremony, avoiding the typical long lines. Led by an expert guide, you will gain invaluable insights into the ceremony’s significance and the legacy of President John F. Kennedy, whose eternal flame burns nearby. This unique opportunity promises to enrich one’s appreciation of the cemetery’s sacred purpose, leaving a lasting impression.

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Key Points

Early access to the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, allowing visitors to avoid long lines.
Guided tour led by an expert, providing insights on the ceremony and JFK’s legacy.
Limited group size of up to 20 travelers for an intimate experience.
Visit to the Eternal Flame at JFK’s gravesite for personal reflection.
Tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with assistance available for steep terrain.

Tour Overview

The Arlington Cemetery Changing of the Guard tour provides early access to beat the crowds and witness this iconic military ceremony.

Situated in Washington DC, this exclusive tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Supplied by Empire Tours and Productions LLC, the tour grants first access to the ceremony, allowing visitors to avoid the long lines.

With an expert guide leading the way, you will witness the solemn Changing of the Guard ritual and visit the Eternal Flame at President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite to reflect on his legacy.

Looking for more options in Washington DC? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Meeting Details

Participants meet at 1 Memorial Ave, Fort Myer, VA 22211, USA.

To reach the guide, attendees are instructed to:

Walk through the main security entrance
Take an immediate right
Pass the ticket booth
Exit the double doors
Find the guide at the long marble bench

The tour ends back at the meeting point.

The start time is 08:15 am, so participants should plan to arrive promptly to ensure they don’t miss the early access to the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Tour Highlights

An expert tour guide leads the group through the Changing of the Guard ceremony, providing insightful commentary on the event’s history and significance.

Travelers witness the solemn ritual that honors America’s fallen soldiers. The guide also takes the group to visit the Eternal Flame at JFK’s gravesite, offering reflections on the former president’s legacy.

Travelers witness the solemn ritual honoring America’s fallen soldiers and visit JFK’s gravesite, reflecting on the former president’s legacy.

This exclusive access allows the small group to experience the ceremony and memorials with fewer crowds, enhancing the emotional and educational aspects of the tour.

Participants come away with a deeper appreciation for Arlington National Cemetery’s sacred purpose.

Accessibility Information

How accessible is the Arlington Cemetery Changing of the Guard tour? The tour is designed to be wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Some key accessibility details include:

Wheelchair accessible transportation and surfaces
Service animals allowed
Steep hill may require aid for wheelchair users

However, it’s important to note that the tour involves navigating outdoor terrain, so guests with mobility challenges may need assistance.

Additional Information

Visitors receive confirmation upon booking the Arlington Cemetery Changing of the Guard tour. The tour also includes gratuity for the expert guide.

It’s conveniently located near public transportation, making it easily accessible. Most travelers can participate, but those with special needs should note the steep hill that may require assistance for wheelchair users.

There's plenty more to explore in Washington DC

Getting to the Meeting Point

The meeting point for the Arlington Cemetery Changing of the Guard tour is located at 1 Memorial Ave, Fort Myer, VA 22211, USA.

The meeting point for the Arlington Cemetery Changing of the Guard tour is located at 1 Memorial Ave, Fort Myer, VA 22211, USA.

To access the meeting point, visitors should:

Walk through the main security entrance
Take an immediate right, passing the ticket booth
Exit the double doors and find the guide at the long marble bench

From there, the tour will begin promptly at 8:15 am.

The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, and the surfaces and transportation are wheelchair accessible, though a steep hill may require assistance for wheelchair users.

What to Expect During the Tour

Upon arriving at the meeting point, guests are greeted by an expert tour guide who provides an overview of the Changing of the Guard ceremony and highlights the program’s key elements.

The guide explains the significance of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the precise choreography of the guard change. Guests are then escorted to the best viewing location to witness the solemn, time-honored ritual.

After the ceremony, the tour continues to the Eternal Flame at JFK’s gravesite, allowing time for personal reflection on the former president’s legacy.

Throughout the tour, the guide offers insightful commentary and responds to guests’ questions.

The Sum Up

This exclusive tour at Arlington Cemetery offers a solemn and intimate experience of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. With first access, you’ll avoid long lines and enjoy expert commentary on the ceremony’s significance and the legacy of JFK. The opportunity to reflect at the Eternal Flame further enriches your appreciation of the cemetery’s sacred purpose.