Arlington Cemetery: Changing of the Guard & JFK Gravesite

Highlights

• This profound 2-hour guided walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery honors the sacrifices of America’s greatest heroes. You will witness the meticulous Changing of the Guard ceremony, stand before the eternal flame at John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, and hear the powerful, untold stories of the men and women resting in these hallowed grounds.
• Changing of the Guard: Witness the pristine, highly disciplined military ritual at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a powerful tribute to unidentified fallen service members.
• JFK’s Eternal Flame: Visit the final resting place of President John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and Senator Robert F. Kennedy.
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: Pay your respects at the iconic white marble sarcophagus overlooking Washington, D.C., guarded 24/7 by the elite 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard).
• Stories of Valor: Walk with an expert historian who brings the cemetery to life through the courageous stories of Supreme Court Justices, military generals, and ordinary citizens who shaped American history.

What’s included?

• Your ticket secures an immersive, 2-hour guided walking tour through the nation’s most revered military cemetery, led by an expert, English-speaking D.C. historian. It includes a strategically timed itinerary to ensure you secure an excellent viewing spot for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
• A 2-hour comprehensive guided walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery.
• An English-speaking, professional local guide and historian.
• A guided visit to the John F. Kennedy gravesite and the Eternal Flame.
• Expertly timed arrival to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
• Small-group tour sizes for a more respectful, intimate, and engaging experience.

Exclusions

• This comprehensive walking tour covers your guided history and expertly navigated route, but leaves personal travel logistics up to you. Transportation to the cemetery, tram tickets, food, and guide gratuities are not included in the ticket price.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (the cemetery is easily accessible via the D.C. Metro Blue Line).
• Arlington National Cemetery Tram tickets (this is a fully guided walking tour).
• Food and beverages (eating is strictly prohibited on the cemetery grounds).
• Gratuities for your knowledgeable tour guide (optional, but deeply appreciated).

Meeting Point

Arlington Cemetery

1 Memorial Ave, Fort Myer, VA 22211

Please note

• Arlington National Cemetery is an active military cemetery, and the Department of the Army enforces strict rules regarding entry, security, and visitor conduct. All adult visitors over the age of 18 must present a valid, government-issued photo ID to enter the grounds.
• Mandatory ID Check: 100% ID check is enforced. U.S. citizens must bring a state-issued driver’s license or ID; international visitors must bring a valid passport.
• Visitor Conduct: Visitors are expected to maintain a high level of respect and quiet reverence, particularly at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
• Physical Pacing: The cemetery spans hundreds of acres with significant, steep inclines. This is a 2-hour walking tour; a moderate-to-high level of physical stamina is required.
• Security Screening: Expect airport-style security bag checks upon entering the Welcome Center.

What do I need to bring?

• To ensure a smooth entry and a comfortable tour, you must bring a valid government-issued ID to pass through federal security. Because the cemetery features steep, rolling hills and limited shade, highly supportive walking shoes and weather protection are essential.
• Valid Photo ID (Mandatory): A passport or state-issued driver’s license is strictly required for all adults (18+) to enter the cemetery.
• Comfortable Footwear: Flat, highly supportive walking shoes or sneakers are absolutely mandatory for comfortably navigating the steep, paved paths and steps.
• Weather Protection: Bring an umbrella, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The cemetery is highly exposed to the elements with very little natural shade.
• Water Bottle: Bring clear bottled water to stay hydrated, especially during the humid Washington D.C. summer months (no other beverages or food are permitted).