Arlington Cemetery: Walking Tour & Changing of the Guard

Walk among stories at Arlington, from JFK to silent rituals

You’ll walk through Arlington National Cemetery with a local guide, pausing at Civil War graves and hearing stories behind famous names like JFK and Jackie Kennedy. Witness the solemn Changing of the Guard ceremony up close. It’s quieter and more moving than you might expect. By tour’s end, you’ll feel both humbled and oddly connected to this place.

Step-by-step itinerary

Arlington National Cemetery guided tour

• Meet guide at Welcome Center
• Learn history and visit Civil War graves
• Visit graves of Kennedy family members
• Watch Changing of the Guard ceremony

The experience

Hands in his jacket pockets, our guide waited just past security at Arlington National Cemetery. He gave a quick nod when he spotted us hovering by the benches. I’d barely finished adjusting my scarf before he started pointing out details I’d never have noticed: the way some gravestones lean ever so slightly, or how the grass is kept this particular shade of green even in late fall. The air felt heavier here, maybe because of all the names stretching out in every direction. He told us about Civil War soldiers buried on these hills, and I caught myself tracing one headstone’s rough edge as he spoke. It’s strange how quiet it is, considering you’re just across the river from DC’s noise.

We moved slowly up an incline (my legs noticed it more than my mind did), and then stopped for the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns. The precision is almost hypnotic: boots on stone, rifles flipping in perfect arcs. I glanced at a kid nearby who was so still I wondered if he was holding his breath too. Our guide explained each step (I didn’t realize how much meaning was packed into every movement), and honestly, it hit harder than I expected. There’s something about watching that ritual in person that sticks with you.

Afterwards we wound our way to President Kennedy’s grave: the eternal flame flickered even though there wasn’t much wind that day. Someone had left fresh roses for Jackie Kennedy. They stood out against all the gray stone. We paused there longer than planned, just looking at names we’ve heard since childhood. Our guide shared a story about Robert Kennedy’s funeral train that made me wish I’d asked my grandparents more questions. The whole walk took about two hours but it felt like we’d stepped outside regular time for a bit, and yeah, my feet were tired but I barely noticed until we were back by the Welcome Center.

What’s included

Your day includes a 2–2.5 hour guided walking tour through Arlington National Cemetery with stops at Civil War sections, notable graves like JFK and Jackie Kennedy’s, entry to memorials such as USS Maine Mast Memorial, and witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony: all led by an expert local guide who meets you after security near the Welcome Center benches.

Options for this experience

2 options

Arlington Cemetery TourGuide in English · 09:00 and 13:00

Private TourGuide in English · 09:00 and 13:00Your group gets a private guide who leads a 2.5-hour walking tour through Arlington Cemetery.

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Information

Lasts 2h–2h 30m, runs every day at 09:00 and 13:00, from US$ 69 per person, with a live guide in English and with free cancellation up to 24 h before.

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00 and 13:00Another time? ›

GroupUp to 202 private ›

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (3 to 12 years) · Under 3: can't be booked

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Unscripted Tours

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 12 years). Children under 3 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the Arlington National Cemetery walking tour?

The guided walking tour lasts 2 to 2.5 hours.

Is there a Changing of the Guard included?

Yes, you’ll watch the ceremonial Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns during your tour.

Where does this Arlington Cemetery tour start?

You meet your guide just outside the Welcome Center after passing security: next to benches on the west side.

Will I see JFK's grave on this tour?

Yes, you’ll visit John F. Kennedy's grave as well as those of Jackie, Robert, and Edward Kennedy.

How much walking is involved?

The tour covers about 2 miles with some inclines and stairs, moderate fitness recommended.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during your visit to Arlington National Cemetery.