Overview

Arlington National Cemetery sits across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., occupying 639 acres of rolling ground in Arlington, Virginia. This is the final resting place for more than 400,000 service members, veterans, and their families. It is one of the most visited cemeteries in the United States, drawing roughly 3 million visitors annually.

Walking through Arlington National Cemetery is a sobering experience. The landscape is formal and carefully maintained, with thousands of white headstones arranged in precise rows across manicured lawns. This is sacred ground where the nation honors those who died in service.

Why this place matters

Arlington National Cemetery represents America's commitment to honoring military sacrifice. Burials here are reserved for active-duty service members, retirees, Medal of Honor recipients, and eligible veterans. The cemetery has received burials since 1864, making it a living archive of American military history.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded continuously since 1937, stands as the centerpiece of the cemetery. The changing of the guard ceremony happens every hour during daylight hours, a ritual performed with precision that reflects the solemnity of the place. Presidents, generals, and ordinary soldiers rest here side by side.

Quick facts

• Admission is free
• Open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. from April through September, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. October through March
• Covers 639 acres with over 400,000 burials
• Established in 1864 on the grounds of the former Arlington House
• Visitors can walk or use the tram service (paid separately)
• Advance security screening required at the visitor center
• No photography allowed at gravesites

Getting there

Arlington National Cemetery is accessible by car from Washington, D.C., roughly 20 minutes depending on traffic. If you're using public transit, take the Metro's Blue Line directly to the Arlington Cemetery station. From the station, it's about a 10-minute walk to the visitor center entrance.

Parking is available at the visitor center, though on busy days spaces fill quickly. If you drive, arrive early in the morning to secure a spot. The cemetery is located at 1 Memorial Avenue, Arlington, Virginia.

The layout and experience

You'll enter through the visitor center, where all guests pass through security screening. This process is similar to airport security and can add 15 to 30 minutes to your visit depending on crowds. Plan accordingly.

Once inside, the cemetery stretches across rolling hills with distinct sections for different eras and branches of service. The main focal point is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, situated on a hill with commanding views. Getting there involves walking or taking the tram service, which costs extra.

The physical experience of walking through Arlington is meditative and heavy. The uniform rows of headstones create visual patterns that are both beautiful and haunting. Many visitors find themselves moving slowly, reading names and dates, pausing at sections that connect to their own family histories or interests.

If you're not inclined to walk the entire grounds, the tram service hits major stops including the Kennedy gravesites, the Memorial Amphitheater, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The tram reduces the physical demand but doesn't eliminate it, as you'll still walk between stops.

Main highlights

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is the most visited spot. The guards stand in perfect stillness, then perform a deliberate, choreographed march and rifle inspection. The ceremony repeats every hour on the hour. Watching it demands your full attention and silence from observers.

The Kennedy family section draws crowds year-round. President John F. Kennedy and his wife Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis are buried here, along with two of their children who died in infancy. The eternal flame at JFK's grave burns continuously and is visible from considerable distances across the cemetery.

Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial, overlooks the cemetery from the highest point. This antebellum mansion was the home of Robert E. Lee before the Civil War. The house is open for tours and provides historical context for the cemetery's origins and the surrounding landscape.

The Space Shuttle Challenger and Cosmonauts Memorial honors the seven crew members who died in the 1986 space shuttle disaster. It's a quieter spot than the main attractions but meaningful for those interested in space exploration history.

History and background

Arlington National Cemetery was established in 1864 on the grounds of Arlington House, which had been the home of Robert E. Lee. During the Civil War, the property was seized by the federal government and converted to a military burial ground. The first soldier buried there was Private William Henry Christman on May 28, 1864.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was created in 1921 to honor unidentified soldiers from World War I. In 1948, unknowns from World War II and the Korean War were added. The continuous guard was established in 1937, making it one of the oldest and most recognizable military traditions in the United States.

Over 160 years, Arlington has grown into the nation's most prominent military cemetery. It represents multiple wars, conflicts, and eras. The arrangement of sections reflects military rank, service branch, and historical period, creating a layered narrative of American military service.

Tickets and entry

Admission to Arlington National Cemetery is completely free. However, there are fees for optional services. The tram service, which transports visitors between major sites, requires a separate ticket. This is particularly useful if you have limited mobility or want to see more of the cemetery without extensive walking.

All visitors must pass through security screening at the visitor center. Bags are subject to inspection, and certain items are prohibited, including large backpacks, weapons of any kind, and alcohol. Check the official Arlington National Cemetery website for the complete list of prohibited items before your visit.

Best time to visit

Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather. Temperatures are moderate, and the grounds are less crowded than summer weekends. If you're coming in April or May, you'll see blooming trees and flowers throughout the cemetery.

Summer attracts the most tourists, so expect longer lines at security and crowded pathways. Winter visits are quieter but can be cold and muddy depending on recent weather.

Weekday mornings, particularly Tuesday through Thursday before 10 a.m., tend to be significantly less busy than weekends. If you want a more contemplative experience, time your visit accordingly.

Photography tips

Photography is permitted throughout most of the cemetery, but there are important restrictions. You cannot photograph at individual gravesites, and you must be respectful of mourning families who may be present. Many visitors photograph the landscape, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from a distance, and Arlington House.

The early morning light, particularly in spring and fall, creates dramatic shadows across the rows of headstones. The Kennedy gravesites and eternal flame photograph well in late afternoon light. The view from Arlington House toward the Potomac and Washington, D.C., in the distance is a popular shot.

Facilities and preparation

The visitor center has restrooms, water fountains, and a gift shop. There is a cafe with basic refreshments, though the selection is limited and prices are higher than nearby options. Bring water if you plan to walk extensively.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. The ground is uneven in places, and you may walk a mile or more depending on which sites you visit. In summer, sun exposure is significant, so bring sunscreen and a hat.

If you have mobility limitations, the tram service is essential. The cemetery's terrain includes hills, and some sections are not easily accessible without it. Wheelchairs are available at the visitor center on a first-come, first-served basis.

How it compares to similar places

Arlington National Cemetery is distinctly American in its scale, organization, and purpose. Unlike many European cemeteries that blend the ancient and the recent, Arlington maintains a military focus and chronological arrangement. It's more formal and less botanically ornate than civilian cemeteries like Père Lachaise in Paris or Woodlawn in New York.

The experience is closer to visiting a memorial or monument than a traditional cemetery. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier ceremony is unique to Arlington and doesn't have a direct equivalent at other American burial grounds.

Combining with nearby attractions

The Arlington Memorial Bridge connects Arlington National Cemetery to the National Mall and monuments in Washington, D.C. From the visitor center, you can walk to the nearby Iwo Jima Memorial and Marine Corps War Memorial. These are about a 15-minute walk from the cemetery entrance.

The Pentagon is also nearby, roughly 2 miles away. The Pentagon Memorial honors the 184 people who died in the September 11, 2001 attack on the building.

If you're spending the day in the area, combine Arlington with a visit to the Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, or other monuments on the National Mall. The proximity to D.C. makes it easy to structure a full day around military history and memorials.

Sample visit plan

Arrive at the visitor center by 9 a.m. to minimize security lines. Allow 20 to 30 minutes for screening and orientation. Start by visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, timing your arrival to catch the changing of the guard ceremony.

If you're walking, head next to the Kennedy gravesites, which are uphill but accessible. Budget 30 to 45 minutes here, including time to stand quietly and reflect. Then visit Arlington House, which offers historical context and good views of the grounds.

For a moderate walk covering the main sites, plan 2 to 3 hours total. If you use the tram, you can see more in the same time. Alternatively, if you have 4 to 5 hours, walk more of the cemetery and explore quieter sections away from the main attractions.

Practical tips

• Arrive early to avoid long security lines and crowds
• Wear respectful clothing; athletic wear is acceptable but avoid tank tops or very short shorts
• Bring water and wear sunscreen, especially in summer
• The visitor center has limited food options, so eat before or after your visit
• Download the Arlington National Cemetery app for self-guided tour information
• Be prepared to move slowly and take breaks; the emotional weight of the place affects many visitors
• Weekday mornings are significantly quieter than weekend afternoons
• If attending a funeral or memorial service, check in at the visitor center for directions

FAQ

Can I bring children to Arlington National Cemetery? Yes, children are welcome, but prepare them for the solemn atmosphere. Many families find the experience meaningful and educational. Young children may struggle with the walk or the emotional tone, so consider their maturity level and stamina.

How long should I plan to spend at Arlington? A basic visit covering the main sites takes 2 to 3 hours. If you want to walk more extensively or spend quiet time reflecting, plan 4 to 5 hours. You can also spend less time and focus on just the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and one other site.

Is it disrespectful to visit as a tourist? No, the cemetery welcomes visitors and recognizes that public visitation is an important way to honor the fallen. Be respectful of mourning families, stay quiet, and avoid frivolous behavior. Photography restrictions and behavioral expectations are in place precisely to maintain the dignity of the space.

What's the best time to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier ceremony? The guard changes hourly during daylight hours. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to secure a good vantage point. The ceremony is most frequent during the day; evening ceremonies happen less often depending on the season.

Can I visit Arlington House without visiting the cemetery? You can visit Arlington House separately if you're interested only in the historic building and views. It's open to the public, though you'll still need to enter through the cemetery visitor center and pass security screening.