Arlington National Cemetery: Pay Respects at America’s Hallowed Grounds of Military Honor & History

Claim to Fame

Established during the Civil War on the former estate of Robert E. Lee, Arlington National Cemetery is the nation’s most revered military burial ground—home to over 400,000 service members, Purple Heart recipients, and national memorials on 639 acres overlooking the Potomac.

📌 Navigating Arlington National Cemetery : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Admission Fee: Admission to Arlington National Cemetery is free; however, some guided tours may charge a fee.
How Long to Visit: Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the cemetery, depending on the number of sites they wish to see.
Washrooms: Washrooms are available on-site for visitor convenience.
Hours of Operation: The cemetery is open to visitors every day from 8 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours during the summer months.
Important Information: It is advised to check for any special events or ceremonies that may affect access, and to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
Handicap Accessible: The cemetery is wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and designated parking areas for those with disabilities.
Pets: Pets are not allowed in the cemetery, with the exception of service animals.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available and can be booked in advance, providing insight into the history and significance of the site.
Restaurant or Cafe: There are no on-site restaurants or cafes, but visitors can find options nearby outside the cemetery.
Gift Shop: A gift shop is located at the Arlington House, offering a variety of souvenirs and educational materials.
Parking: Parking is available on-site, but is limited and can fill up quickly, so using public transportation is recommended.
Family Friendly: Arlington National Cemetery is family-friendly, offering educational opportunities about U.S. military history and memorials.
Photography: Photography is permitted throughout the cemetery, but visitors should be respectful and not disrupt solemn ceremonies.
WIFI: There is no public Wi-Fi available within the cemetery grounds.
Picnic Area: Picnicking is not permitted within the cemetery to maintain a respectful environment.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Arlington National Cemetery

Perched on a scenic ridge across from Washington, D.C., Arlington National Cemetery offers a solemn landscape of white headstones, iconic memorials, and ceremonial rites. From the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to the eternal flame at John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, each corner tells a story of sacrifice, valor, and national memory. Its rolling lawns and shaded avenues invite reflection on America’s military heritage and the individuals who served in defense of freedom.

What to Expect

Begin at the welcome center to obtain a cemetery map and an information brochure. Walk or take the shuttle to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier—witness the precise Changing of the Guard ceremony every hour on the hour (and every half-hour 9 AM–3 PM). Continue along Memorial Avenue to view the Arlington House — Robert E. Lee’s former plantation manor now interpreted as a memorial to Union dead — and the Women in Military Service for America Memorial at the cemetery’s north entrance. Visit President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, marked by a polished black granite slab and eternal flame, then explore the World War II and Space Shuttle Challenger and Columbia memorials clustered nearby.

Self-guided walking tours along Oakwood and Sheridan Drives lead to sections for Medal of Honor recipients, Gold Star Families Memorial, and veterans of every U.S. conflict. Ranger-led heritage walks (weekends) share personal stories and the cemetery’s evolution. Throughout the grounds, informational panels highlight notable interments—from Audie Murphy to Thurgood Marshall—and explain burial traditions and monument symbolism.

Background and Cultural Context

In 1864, the U.S. government appropriated Arlington Estate to bury Union war dead when existing cemeteries filled. It was formally designated a national cemetery in 1866. Over time, Arlington expanded to include veterans from every American conflict, Supreme Court justices, astronauts, and world leaders. Its design by Montgomery C. Meigs integrated existing topography and preserved Lee’s oak-shaded groves, creating a landscape of dignity and continuity between past and present.

Arlington remains an active military cemetery managed by the U.S. Army’s 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). Annual events—Memorial Day wreath-laying, Patriots’ Day reenactments, and Veterans Day commemorations—reinforce its role as a living memorial and site of national remembrance.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (9–11 AM) offer quieter reflection and unobstructed photo light on headstone rows. Late afternoon (3–5 PM) casts long shadows across the slopes and fewer tour groups. Memorial Day (last Monday in May) and Veterans Day (November 11) feature official ceremonies; arrive early for seating near the Tomb. Spring (March–May) brings dogwoods and azaleas in bloom, while autumn’s cooler air and fall foliage provide a contemplative backdrop.

How to Get There

Arlington Cemetery is at 1 Memorial Avenue, Arlington, VA. Metro: Blue/Yellow to Arlington Cemetery station, then follow signs to the Welcome Center. Driving: Memorial Bridge via George Washington Parkway; limited metered parking along Memorial Drive. A free courtesy shuttle loops between the Welcome Center, Arlington House, and the Tomb. All paths are wheelchair-accessible; headstone rows are level but grassed, so wear sturdy shoes.

Photo Opportunities

Sunrise light on the endless rows of white headstones viewed from the Terrace Drive overlook
Precise silhouette of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier against the black marble wall
John F. Kennedy’s eternal flame glowing at dusk amid autumn leaves
Blossoming dogwoods framing Arlington House’s granite façade in spring
Reflective surfaces of the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial under a clear sky

Travel Tips

Pick up the free map at the Welcome Center to plan your route and timing for the Changing of the Guard.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before a guard-change ceremony to secure a good viewing spot.
Wear respectful attire and maintain silence in ceremonial areas to honor the site’s solemnity.
Use the courtesy shuttle if mobility is an issue—its white buses circle every 15–20 minutes.
Combine your visit with the nearby Iwo Jima Memorial and Pentagon tour for a full military heritage day.

FAQs

Is admission required?
No—the cemetery is free to enter, though parking meters accept coins and credit cards.

Are tours available?
Yes—free ranger-led tours run weekends; audio tours and printed guides are available at the Welcome Center.

Can I attend a burial?
Visitors may attend open-casket funerals and military honors with family permission; contact the cemetery administration in advance.

Is photography allowed?
Yes—non-commercial photography is welcome, but please respect mourners and avoid flash near ceremonies.

Final Thoughts

Arlington National Cemetery stands as a sacred tapestry of American service and sacrifice. Walking its silent avenues, witnessing its ceremonies, and pausing at its memorials offers a profound connection to the nation’s past and a tribute to those who served with honor and courage.

Things To Do near Arlington National Cemetery

Lincoln Memorial

The Distance from Arlington National Cemetery to Lincoln Memorial is 3.2 Kilometer(s) / 2 Mile(s)

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Distance from Arlington National Cemetery to Vietnam Veterans Memorial is 3.7 Kilometer(s) / 2.3 Mile(s)

Washington Monument

The Distance from Arlington National Cemetery to Washington Monument is 5 Kilometer(s) / 3.1 Mile(s)

White House

The Distance from Arlington National Cemetery to White House is 5.6 Kilometer(s) / 3.5 Mile(s)

National Museum of American History

The Distance from Arlington National Cemetery to National Museum of American History is 5.8 Kilometer(s) / 3.6 Mile(s)

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Distance from Arlington National Cemetery to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is 6.4 Kilometer(s) / 4 Mile(s)

National Mall

The Distance from Arlington National Cemetery to National Mall is 6.8 Kilometer(s) / 4.2 Mile(s)

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

The Distance from Arlington National Cemetery to Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is 7.1 Kilometer(s) / 4.4 Mile(s)

National Gallery of Art

The Distance from Arlington National Cemetery to National Gallery of Art is 7.2 Kilometer(s) / 4.5 Mile(s)

U.S. Capitol Building

The Distance from Arlington National Cemetery to U.S. Capitol Building is 8.5 Kilometer(s) / 5.3 Mile(s)

📘 Washington Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: Washington, D.C. operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is UTC -5. During Daylight Saving Time, it shifts to Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), UTC -4.

Weather: Washington, D.C. has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures range from -1°C to 8°C (30°F to 46°F). Spring and fall are mild and popular times to visit.

Population: Washington, D.C. has a population of approximately 700,000 residents, but over 6 million live in the greater metropolitan area. The city is the capital of the United States and home to all three branches of the federal government.

Size: Washington, D.C. covers about 177 square kilometers (68 square miles). It is bordered by Maryland and Virginia and sits along the Potomac River. The city was purpose-built as the nation’s capital in the late 18th century.

Language: English is the official and most widely spoken language in Washington, D.C. Spanish is also commonly spoken, along with a variety of other languages due to the city’s international population.

Currency: The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted throughout the city.

Safety: Washington, D.C. is generally safe, especially around government buildings and popular tourist sites. However, like any large city, some neighborhoods have higher crime rates. Visitors should stay alert and use common sense.

Tipping: Tipping is customary in Washington, D.C. A 15–20% tip is expected in restaurants, and tipping is also standard for taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides.

Electricity and Plugs: The United States uses 120V electricity at 60Hz. Plug types A and B are standard. Travelers from countries using other systems will need adapters and possibly voltage converters.

Water: Tap water in Washington, D.C. is safe to drink and regularly tested to meet EPA standards. Bottled water is widely available but not necessary.

Annual Visitors: Washington, D.C. receives over 20 million visitors annually. Major attractions include the U.S. Capitol, the White House, the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, and iconic monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.

Visa Requirements: Most international visitors require a valid passport and may need a visa or ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program. Entry requirements depend on nationality and length of stay.

Health & Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for visiting Washington, D.C. It is recommended that travelers be up to date on routine immunizations such as flu, measles, and tetanus.

Transportation: Washington, D.C. has an extensive public transportation network, including the Metro (subway), buses, and commuter rail. The city is also walkable and bike-friendly in central areas.

Food: D.C.’s food scene is diverse, offering everything from iconic chili dogs and half-smokes to fine dining, global cuisines, and food trucks. The city is known for its international influence and vibrant farmers markets.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Washingtonians are generally professional and formal due to the political nature of the city. Punctuality, courtesy, and respect for security protocols—especially around government buildings—are important.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, museums, restaurants, and public spaces. Mobile coverage is strong throughout the city, and SIM cards or eSIM plans are available from major U.S. carriers.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is recommended for visitors to Washington, D.C. It can help cover high medical costs, delays, or lost belongings, especially during large events or unexpected disruptions.

Did You Know? - Facts About Arlington National Cemetery

The Eternal Flame, located at President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, was lit by his wife Jacqueline Kennedy during his funeral in 1963 and has burned continuously ever since.

One of the most visited sites at Arlington is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where a guard from the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment performs a solemn changing of the guard ceremony every hour, 24 hours a day.

Arlington National Cemetery is also the site of the Memorial Amphitheater, where national ceremonies such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day services are held to honor the nation’s military.

Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for more than 400,000 U.S. military veterans, their families, and notable figures, including President John F. Kennedy.

The cemetery spans 639 acres and is located across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., on the grounds of the former estate of Confederate General Robert E. Lee.