Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery Tours
Explore the Rich History from the Comfort of our Tour Vehicles. Arlington National Cemetery is an enduring tribute to those who’ve dedicated their lives to defending the ideals of our nation. A visit here will leave an indelible impression on your spirit. There are more than 600 acres of hallowed ground and they’re best explored aboard Arlington National Cemetery Tours.
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Admissions -
Restrooms
About the tour
- Aboard the continuous 45-60 minute loop, you’ll have the opportunity to disembark and explore.
- The tour makes 7 stops on weekdays and 10 on weekends.
- Relax on our comfortable tour vehicles as you journey through history.
- Learn about the cemetery’s history, the heroes who rest there, and other stories from your knowledgeable guide.
- You’ll be transported to notable graves and memorials.
History of Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is located on a parcel of land that once belonged to George Washington’s step-grandson, George Washington Parke Custis. In 1857, Custis left the property to his daughter Mary Anna Randolph Custis and it became the family home for her and her husband, Robert E. Lee.
After the Lee family vacated the property at the onset of the Civil War in 1861, the grounds were used for various purposes, including serving as a camp and headquarters for Federal Troops during the Civil War and later providing a safe haven for former slaves seeking freedom. Arlington National Cemetery held its first military burial on May 13, 1864.
Today, the property is the final resting place for more than 400,000 active duty service members, veterans and their families. It is a place to remember the men and women who served their nations and where all who visit can gain a sense of their sacrifice.
Visitor Information
Weekday Stops
- Welcome Center
- President John F. Kennedy Gravesite
- U.S. Coast Guard Memorial
- Pershing Gravesite
- Memorial Amphitheater • Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
- Arlington House
- Ord & Weitzel (Iwo Jima Memorial Outside Gate)
Additional Stops on Weekends:
- Sections 55 and 59
- Columbarium and Niche Wall
- Pentagon Group Burial Marker – 9/11 Memorial
Tour schedule
Tours depart from the Welcome Center
Tour Length: 45-60 minutes
Arlington National Cemetery is open:
October – March: 8am – 5pm
April – September: 8am – 7pm
Tour Times:
October – March: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm. Last tour departs at 4:00 pm*.
April – September: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm. Last tour departs at 6:00 pm.
*October – March: The last red loop Old Town Trolley will leave stop #11 (Lincoln Memorial) at 4:30pm to pick-up guests from ANC at 4:45pm and return them to stop #11.
Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier:
October – March: Every hour on the hour
April – September: Every half hour
Additional schedule information
Veterans Day, November 11: We will be providing transportation for special services at the Cemetery.
Tours will not start until approximately 2 pm.
The Arlington National Cemetery Tour is included with your Old Town Trolley Day Tour. For more information, call 202-796-2606.
Download Brochure
Click here to download an Arlington National Cemetery Tours brochure.
