Guided Tour of Arlington Cemetery With Changing of the Guards

Exploring the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery is a profound experience, and the guided tour with the Changing of the Guards ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a must-see. Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through significant sites, sharing the stories of military sacrifice and historical figures. While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible and requires moderate fitness, it promises an enriching journey that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re honoring fallen heroes or simply seeking to understand America’s history, this tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the nation’s legacy.

Good To Know

• The 90-minute guided walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery highlights the Changing of the Guards ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
• The tour includes visits to key sites such as the Kennedy family grave site, Custis Lee Manor, and the Columbia and Challenger memorials.
• Attendees must be moderately fit due to the steep terrain, and the tour is not wheelchair-friendly, although strollers and service animals are allowed.
• The tour is limited to a maximum group size of 40 to provide an immersive experience, and meeting times are 9:45 AM for the 10 AM tour and 1:45 PM for the 2 PM tour.
• The tour pricing starts at $44.00 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Tour Overview

The guided walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery offers visitors a comprehensive experience. The 90-minute tour highlights key landmarks and notable gravesites, including the Changing of the Guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Guests will also see the Kennedy family grave site, Custis Lee Manor, and memorials for the Columbia and Challenger disasters.

The tour’s accessibility is limited, as it’s not wheelchair-friendly, though strollers and service animals are allowed. Moderate fitness is recommended due to the steep and challenging walking conditions.

With a maximum group size of 40, the tour provides an immersive and respectful look into the hallowed grounds of Arlington Cemetery.

Meeting and Arrival

Travelers meet at the Arlington Cemetery Metro Station, located at 22209 Arlington, VA. From there, they’ll embark on the 90-minute guided walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery.

Participants should arrive by 9:45 AM for the 10 AM tour or 1:45 PM for the 2 PM tour. The entire experience is walking, as no transportation is provided to or from the cemetery.

With moderate physical fitness recommended, the tour covers steep and challenging terrain, allowing guests to witness the Changing of the Guards, visit significant gravesites, and view notable landmarks like the Kennedy family grave site and the Custis Lee Manor.

Changing of the Guards

One of the highlights of the guided tour is witnessing the solemn Changing of the Guards ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

This ritual, performed by the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment, involves the precise and graceful exchange of duties between the outgoing and incoming sentinels.

Visitors observe the process in respectful silence, captivated by the discipline and dedication of the soldiers.

The ceremony is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who’ve served their country.

It’s a moving and unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it during the Arlington Cemetery tour.

Notable Gravesites

Visiting the gravesites of prominent historical figures is a poignant aspect of the guided tour.

The tour includes a stop at the Kennedy family gravesite, where visitors can pay their respects to President John F. Kennedy and his wife Jacqueline.

The graves of World War II hero Audie Murphy and memorials for the Columbia and Challenger disasters are also highlighted.

While the Custis Lee Manor is only viewed from a distance, the tour provides a respectful and informative experience, allowing visitors to reflect on the significance of those interred at Arlington National Cemetery.

Accessibility Considerations

While the guided tour of Arlington National Cemetery offers a poignant and informative experience, it’s essential to consider the accessibility needs of visitors.

The tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, though it’s stroller-accessible. Service animals are allowed, but infants must sit on laps. A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, as the walking conditions can be steep and challenging.

Visitors should be prepared for the limited time allotted for the tour, which may mean some sights are missed.

The tour provides an immersive and respectful glimpse into the hallowed grounds of Arlington, making it a meaningful experience for those able to navigate the terrain.

Pricing and Booking

The tour costs start from $44.00 per person.

Booking is available on the tour provider’s website, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

Groups are limited to a maximum of 40 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized tour experience.

It’s important to note that the tour is popular, so early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

The provider offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing guests to adjust their plans as needed without incurring penalties.

Visitor Feedback

How do visitors rate the guided tour of Arlington National Cemetery? The tour garners 4.5 stars from 19 reviews.

Visitors praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, finding the experience to be enriching and respectful.

However, some have reported issues with guide knowledge and organization, as well as dissatisfaction with missed tour experiences and refund processes.

While the majority of feedback is positive, the tour does have room for improvement in terms of consistency and transparency.

Travelers should weigh the pros and cons carefully when considering this tour, as the experience can vary depending on the guide and tour conditions on a given day.

Sum Up

The guided tour of Arlington Cemetery offers a moving and educational experience. Visitors can witness the iconic Changing of the Guards ceremony and explore significant sites, gaining a deeper appreciation for American military history and sacrifice. While accessibility is limited, the tour provides an enriching opportunity to honor the nation’s fallen heroes on this hallowed ground.