Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking in Washington DC, United States
Washington DC, United States

Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking

Outty Ranking 78 4.8 · 135 traveler reviews2.5 hoursFrom $49
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Outty Ranking

78/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 135 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking worth booking?

Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking is a 2.5-hour experience in Washington DC, United States, from $49 per person. It scores 78 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 135 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
78 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (135)
Duration
2.5 hours
From
$49 per person

A complete tour with a small group that allows time to visit the main sites to pay respects, take photos, and watch the full Changing of the Guard Ceremony. We don't just show you the sites on our walking tour; we tell you the stories. -Presidents Kennedy & Taft Memorials - the only two presidents buried here. -Tomb of the Unknown Soldier & Changing of the Guard - learn what it takes to be a sentinel & witness the tradition of guarding the tomb. -Arlington House - visit the Slave Quarters & Museum to learn why Robert E. Lee's house became a military cemetery. -Military Women's Memorial - learn how women have contributed to the American military. Hear the actions of Medal of Honor recipients and understand why family members can be buried here. Learn about military funerals and understand the symbolism on the headstones. At the end, we provide a free self-guided audio tour to the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial just outside the cemetery.

What you get

    About this experience

    A complete tour with a small group that allows time to visit the main sites to pay respects, take photos, and watch the full Changing of the Guard Ceremony. We don't just show you the sites on our walking tour; we tell you the stories. -Presidents Kennedy & Taft Memorials - the only two presidents buried here. -Tomb of the Unknown Soldier & Changing of the Guard - learn what it takes to be a sentinel & witness the tradition of guarding the tomb. -Arlington House - visit the Slave Quarters & Museum to learn why Robert E. Lee's house became a military cemetery. -Military Women's Memorial - learn how women have contributed to the American military. Hear the actions of Medal of Honor recipients and understand why family members can be buried here. Learn about military funerals and understand the symbolism on the headstones. At the end, we provide a free self-guided audio tour to the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial just outside the cemetery.

    What's included

    Included

    • Licensed, Professional Tour Guide
    • Timed to include Changing of the Guard ceremony
    • Entrance into Arlington National Cemetery
    • Walking Tour of Arlington Cemetery grounds
    • Self Guided Audio Tour of Iwo Jima USMC Memorial

    Not included

    • Gratuities

    What you'll see and do

    1. Arlington National Cemetery

      We don't just show you the sites; we tell you the stories. Come along on this family-friendly tour of one of this nation's most sacred grounds.

      60 minutes here

    2. President John F. Kennedy Gravesite

      Pay respect to the Kennedy's: President John F. Kennedy, Jackie Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, Ted Kennedy and their eldest brother, Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr.

      15 minutes here

    3. Audie L. Murphy Gravesite

      Here the story of a real "Captain America," Medal of Honor Recipient Audie Murphy and discuss the nearby USS Maine, Space Shuttle Challenger, Space Shuttle Columbia and Iran Rescue Mission Memorials.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

      We will explain the history of the Changing of the Guards, what it takes to be a sentinel and make sure you get one of the best views of this time-honored tradition.

      30 minutes here

    5. Honor those lost on the Space Shuttles Challenger, Columbia, and Iran Rescue Mission. "Remember the Maine," and learn where this rallying cry came from while looking at the original ship's mast.

      10 minutes here

    6. Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial

      Head to the top of the hill for a breathtaking view of Washington, DC. We will have time to visit the "Slave Houses" and the Museum briefly to understand how Robert E. Lee's home became Arlington National Cemetery

      15 minutes here

    7. Air Force Memorial

      See the Air Force Memorial from a distance from the grounds of Arlington House and learn how Arlington Cemetery is expanding to surround this memorial.

      Pass by without stopping

    8. We do not walk past Section 60 which often has families and loved ones visiting graves of those killed in action in recent years, but we talk about the enduring legacy of Arlington Cemetery today.

      Pass by without stopping

    9. Marine Corps War Memorial

      We provided a self guided audio tour and map for anyone who would like to take the additional 15 minute walk to visit Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial outside the cemetery. The guide will not join you for this stop. At Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial, you can either continue 10 minutes to Rosslyn Metro or walk back 15 minutes to Arlington Cemetery Visitor Center.

      Pass by without stopping

    10. Military Women's Memorial

      We end the tour outside the Military Women's Memorial and museum, where you can learn how women have contributed to the military might of America through the years.

      10 minutes here

    11. The first President to be buried at Arlington Cemetery, President (and Supreme Court Chief Justice) Taft lies here with his wife, Nellie Taft. It is thanks to her efforts we have the famous Cherry Blossom trees.

      5 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Washington DC

    The tour departs from outside the Arlington Cemetery Welcome Center after security. We are unaffiliated with any desk inside the Visitor Center, so please don't look for us there. Please look for your guide in orange by the benches as you exit the visitor center into the cemetery.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    The tour ends outside the Military Women's Memorial, where there are restrooms, and you can explore women's history in the military. This is an easy short walk back to the parking lot and the Arlington Cemetery Metro station.

    Options you can book

    • Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking

    • Private Arlington Cemetery

      Private Walking Tour

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 14 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    DC by Foot

    Know before you go

    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • This is a walking tour. There are stairs and a few hills.
    • This tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues. Please contact for a private tour to accommodate wheelchairs, strollers, canes or mobility issues.

    Photos

    Watch the Changing of the Guards at the Tomb of the Unknowns, where your guide makes sure you have the best viewing place and are there on time...Join a professional, licensed tour guide to hear the stories of valor of the men and women honored at Arlington National Cemetery., Arlington...See an incredible view of Washington DC., Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking in Washington DCLearn what it takes to be a Tomb Sentinel., Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking in Washington DCHear the stories of Memorial Amphitheater, which houses the barracks of those men and women who guard the Tomb of the Unknown., Arlington...Your guide will make sure you are able to see any special events that may be occurring during your visit., Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials &...

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 135 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    7 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    5 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    135 verified traveler reviews for Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    124
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    Brad_J · September 2026

    Highly recommended walking tour

    Very informative tour, and incredible experience. There is some walking with this tour, but if you can handle the walk I highly recommend the walking tour as it's so much more detailed. Our guide was amazing!

    Response from the operator: Thank you! We're so glad you enjoyed the informative tour and found the experience incredible. We truly appreciate your recommendation!

    via Viator

    ROSS_H · September 2026

    Solemn sacred

    Arlington Cemetery was the most solemn patriotic memorial heartfelt experience I’ve ever had walking through a cemetery

    Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing such heartfelt words. We're honored the Arlington Cemetery tour was such a meaningful and memorable experience for you.

    via Viator

    Melanie_B · September 2026

    Arlington walking

    Idenborg was a great guide. She had lots of great info for us. Thoroughly enjoyed the tour. Highly recommend.

    Response from the operator: Thank you! We're so glad you enjoyed the tour with Ingeborg and appreciated her knowledge. We truly appreciate your recommendation!

    via Viator

    Pamela_K · August 2026

    Arlington Tour

    Colin our guide was very knowledgable and the tour was very moving. We enjoyed the entire tour very much.

    Response from the operator: Thank you! We're so glad you enjoyed the tour with Colin and found the experience both informative and moving!

    via Viator

    Richard_I · July 2026

    Very informative

    Our guide Colin was excellent. Our family was 7 total group was 9. It is a speedy hilly walk. Definitely for those that walk fast. The history that Colin shared was great. 40 and under walkers 😃

    Response from the operator: Thank you for the review! We will be sure to pass this along to Colin, who loves sharing these stories. This route covers some hilly ground and we appreciate you giving other walkers a heads up. We hope to see you again on another DC tour!

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    2.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $49 to $199
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    47
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by DC by Foot, who run 11 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 68.9.

    See everything DC by Foot runs

    Why this scores 78

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)84
    Review evidence (18% weight)62
    Booking momentum (14% weight)56
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)72
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Washington DC.

    How much does Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking cost?

    +

    Prices start at $49 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Washington DC usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking take?

    +

    Plan for about 2.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Washington DC is not rushed.

    Is Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 78 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 135 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Washington DC, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking?

    +

    Around 47 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Washington DC can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Washington DC and add a light layer if any part of the 2.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Washington DC within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Washington DC?

    +

    Washington is the rare city where the headline attractions cost nothing and the scarce resource is access. Timed entry to the Smithsonian museums, Capitol and White House tours, and the night monument runs by bike or bus are what fill up. Our ranking rewards operators who secure the passes themselves rather than telling you to sort it out at the door. On Outty we rank every Washington DC experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Washington DC "See the City" Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour, Arlington Cemetery Small-Group Tour & Changing of the Guards, Washington DC Small-Group Sightseeing Experience. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Washington DC?

    +

    Late March to April for cherry blossom, or September to November for cool museum weather. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Washington DC?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking?

    +

    Included: Licensed, Professional Tour Guide; Timed to include Changing of the Guard ceremony; Entrance into Arlington National Cemetery; Walking Tour of Arlington Cemetery grounds; and Self Guided Audio Tour of Iwo Jima USMC Memorial. Not included: Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking?

    +

    The tour departs from outside the Arlington Cemetery Welcome Center after security. We are unaffiliated with any desk inside the Visitor Center, so please don't look for us there. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: This tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues. Please contact for a private tou. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking?

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    Across 135 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking?

    +

    There are 2 options to choose from, including Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking, Private Arlington Cemetery. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Arlington Cemetery: Kennedy Memorials & Changing of Guard Walking.

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