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Arlington National Cemetery Tour with Changing of the Guards

Experience the final resting place of America's most distinguished heroes

Walking Tour
2 hrs
Washington
The Finer Details
Your tour begins at Arlington National Cemetery, the nation’s most hallowed grounds, offering stunning views of the Potomac River and the nation's capital. Here, you will explore the vast park and be immersed in a reflection of the importance of honoring those who have served and the meaning of their ultimate sacrifice. 

As you make your way through the cemetery, your expert guide will share valuable insights on the history of these grounds. You will then arrive at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for the viewing of the Changing of the Guards. This showing of national pride is truly one of the most iconic and moving ceremonies in the world. 

Following the ceremony, your guide will accompany you through the cemetery's most important sections. One of the most visited and revered sites in the cemetery that you will visit is the Kennedy family plot. By the end of this two-hour tour, your expert will have guided you to a deeper knowledge of this sacred space – and the many historical figures who are laid to rest there.

Choose this tour if...

  • It's your first time in Washington, DC and you are seeking a deeper knowledge of our nation's military and cultural history
  • You’re a returning visitor and want to go deeper into the importance of this sacred resting place and learn the stories of those buried here

Sites Visited

  • Arlington National Cemetery – Cemetery where thousands of military veterans, including many notable figures and their gravesites are honored
  • Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – A monument dedicated to honoring unidentified soldiers who died in war, symbolizing the broader sacrifice of all unknown soldiers
  • JFK Gravesite –  Final resting place of President John F. Kennedy, an eternal flame, and that of his wife Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and their two children

Logistics 

  • You must bring a form of identification for all persons 16 years of age and older or else you will not be granted entrance to Arlington National Cemetery due to strict security.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessibility
  • Arlington National Cemetery does not offer wheelchair rentals. However, there are businesses in the DC area that rent wheelchairs and scooters. They recommend that visitors in wheelchairs be accompanied by someone to assist them.
Service Animals

Frequently Asked Questions

For more information about Context tours, please visit our FAQs.

I have mobility issues. Can I still do the tour?
This is best decided on an individual-to-individual basis. This tour is not very accessible for clients with mobility issues. It is a walking-intensive tour and covers very hilly terrain. Although there is a lot of walking involved, you can take breaks as needed. 

I am traveling with young children. Can they do the tour?
Yes, children are welcome on the tour. However, it is important to keep in mind that the tour is two hours long and there is a lot of walking involved as well as respectful behavioral expectations during the Changing of the Guards ceremony. 

I am interested in learning more about a specific individual who is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Can the tour guide help me with that?
Yes, please let us know in advance, and your tour guide will help you learn more about a specific individual. They will be happy to answer your questions and help you find the grave of the individual you are interested in.

Cancellation Policy

Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Book a Tour
Meet the Experts
Stephen Local Guide Stephen
Michael Local Guide Michael
Gregory Local Guide Gregory
Elmira Behavioral Economist Elmira
Jane Historian Jane
Kate Local Guide Kate
David Historian David
Teresa Local Cultural Expert Teresa
Where You’ll Go

From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.

  • Arlington National Cemetery
  • Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
  • English-speaking expert guide
    Tours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
  • Intentionally sized groups
    A smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
  • Tickets and entrance fees
    All entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
  • Headsets
    Headsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Excluded
  • Gratuities
    We encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
  • Food and drink
    Refreshments are only included during a tour when clearly noted.
  • Transportation to and from the meeting point
    Guests organize pre- and post-tour transport themselves - this service can be added by request.
  • Hotel pickup or drop-off
    Unless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Map of Arlington National Cemetery Tour with Changing of the Guards general meeting point area

Make the Most of Your Tour

Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.

Dos:
  • Wear comfortable footwear
  • Check the weather and dress appropriately
  • Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
  • Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
  • Bring firearms or weapons
  • Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
  • Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always contact us.

Don’t just take our word for it

13 Reviews

Jane was absolutely excellent. Full of information and responded to all our questions.

Greg was very helpful today during our Arlington Cemetery tour and helping us find a unique gravesite we wanted to visit. He also brought a few activity sheets for the children which was a very sweet surprise and very thoughtful

Greg was beyond excellent. Perfect amount of time touring Arlington. Greg was extremely knowledgeable and personable. Would highly recommend.

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