What You Need to Know Before Visiting Arlington National Cemetery

Planning a trip to Arlington National Cemetery can be an amazing and unforgettable experience. You'll find information on what to see, where to go, how to get there, and more. Get ready for an emotional journey as you explore the vast cemetery grounds and pay homage to the brave service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Sign directing visitors to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Arlington National Cemetery is a United States national military cemetery located in Arlington County, Virginia. It spans over 600 acres of land and serves as the final resting place for more than 400,000 national heroes who have served in the armed forces.

Visitors can access the cemetery via the Metro Blue Line, and it is open year-round from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To ensure the safety and security of all visitors, airport-style security checks are conducted, and visitors are required to present valid photo identification before entering the cemetery. Paid parking, restrooms, and a gift shop are available at the Visitor Center. It is recommended that visitors dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Drinking water may be purchased at the Gift Shop.

Arlington National Cemetery offers visitors the opportunity to explore the site by walking around yourself on the 600+ acre site or to purchase a ticket for the Tram Tour.  The tour is a live-narrated, hop on/hop off tour making five stops: President John F. Kennedy gravesite, John J. Pershing gravesite, Memorial Amphitheater (Tomb of the Unknown Soldier), Arlington House, Water Gate (near the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial), and the Coast Guard Memorial. 

Most visitors typically stop at the gravesites of John Fitzgerald Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy before witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The ceremony is held in high regard and is a symbol of respect to the fallen soldiers. Signs are posted in certain areas of the cemetery requiring silence and respect. Visitors are asked to maintain silence at the Kennedy gravesites and the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

The timing of the Changing of the Guard ceremony varies depending on the season. From approximately October 15 to March 15, the ceremony is held on the hour, while in spring, summer, and early fall, it is held on the hour and half-hour.

Arlington House, a historic home within Arlington National Cemetery, is a unique attraction for history enthusiasts. The house was built by George Washington’s step-grandson, George Washington Parke Custis, and later owned by Robert E. Lee, the general who led the Confederate troops in the American Civil War. The structure sits on the highest hill at the cemetery, offering visitors a panoramic view of the grounds. The Park Service is currently restoring Arlington House, and it is usually open during cemetery hours, but it may be temporarily closed due to construction.

In summary, Arlington National Cemetery is a site of great historical significance and a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by our national heroes. Visitors are encouraged to pay their respects and to maintain silence and respect at all times.