Arlington Cemetery: Walking Tour & Changing of the Guard

Summary

Walk Arlington’s quiet hills, JFK’s grave, and the Guard’s silent steps

You’ll walk Arlington National Cemetery’s quiet paths in a small group, pausing at JFK’s eternal flame and Audie Murphy’s grave before witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns. With stories from your guide and time to reflect among memorials and endless white stones, this tour lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that got me was the hush. Not silence exactly—more like a soft shuffle of shoes on stone, distant birds, a flag snapping above those endless rows of white headstones. We’d just stepped through the gates of Arlington National Cemetery when our guide, Marcus, paused under a big oak and said something about “walking with respect.” I felt it in my chest right away. There were only eight of us, and even though it was mid-morning, the air felt heavy but clear. I kept thinking about how many stories must be buried here.

We stopped at President Kennedy’s grave first—eternal flame flickering against the breeze. Someone in our group whispered something about Jackie’s roses (I didn’t know she was buried there too). Marcus told us about Audie Murphy being just up the hill—a name I’d heard but never really knew. Turns out he was one of the most decorated soldiers ever. The cemetery stretches on and on; you see families visiting, sometimes just standing quietly or brushing leaves off a name. I remember the smell of cut grass mixed with rain from earlier that morning.

The real heart-stopper for me was the Tomb of the Unknowns. We caught the Changing of the Guard ceremony—so precise it almost made my shoulders tense up watching them march. No talking allowed during it; you could feel everyone holding their breath together. I didn’t expect to get emotional but yeah, there it was. Marcus explained how every hour they switch guards, rain or shine. He pointed out memorials to Challenger and Columbia too—small reminders that not all loss comes from war.

By the time we reached Arlington House (Robert E. Lee’s old home), I’d lost track of time completely. The view over Washington is strange—beautiful but solemn somehow. It started to drizzle again as we wound back toward the entrance, shoes squeaking a little on wet pavement. Someone cracked a joke about getting our steps in for the day; even Marcus laughed at that one. I still think about that quiet walk between graves—the way history feels different when you’re standing right on top of it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided tour of Arlington Cemetery

• Visit Arlington National Cemetery
• Learn about famous graves
• See President John F. Kennedy's tomb
• Explore graves of Joe Louis and Audie Murphy
• Visit memorials for Columbia and Challenger disasters
• Walk to the Tomb of the Unknowns
• Watch Changing of the Guard ceremony
• Tour Arlington House, Robert E. Lee's home

Top questions

How long is the Arlington Cemetery walking tour?

The guided walking tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Is there a maximum group size for this tour?

Yes, groups are limited to 12 guests maximum per tour.

Does this tour include seeing JFK's grave?

Yes, you will visit President John F. Kennedy's grave during the tour.

Can you see the Changing of the Guard ceremony?

You may witness a Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns during your visit.

Are children allowed on this walking tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; strollers are permitted.

What should I bring for this Arlington Cemetery tour?

Comfortable shoes, water bottle, umbrella if rain is forecasted, and a hat for summer are recommended.

Will we visit Arlington House during this tour?

The route includes seeing Arlington House as part of your experience.

Is hotel pickup included in this walking tour?

No hotel pickup is included; guests meet at Arlington National Cemetery directly.

What’s included

This semi-private day includes entry to Arlington National Cemetery with an expert guide leading your small group (never more than 12 people). You’ll walk to key sites like JFK’s grave and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony—all rain or shine—before finishing back near where you started.