Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour in Washington DC, United States
Washington DC, United States

Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour

Outty Ranking 80 5.0 · 80 traveler reviews2 hoursFrom $45
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Outty Ranking

80/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 80 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour worth booking?

Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour is a 2-hour experience in Washington DC, United States, from $45 per person. It scores 80 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 80 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
80 / 100
Rating
5/5 (80)
Duration
2 hours
From
$45 per person

Explore the solemn beauty of Arlington National Cemetery on a 2-hour walking tour that showcases its most significant sites. From the iconic JFK gravesite to the revered Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, immerse yourself in the rich history and honor the sacrifices made by those interred here. Visit the Arlington House for an insightful perspective on the grounds and their historical significance. This tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with American history in a profound setting. This tour includes: - Two-hour guided walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery - Small Group (maximum of 10 guests) - The Changing of the Guard Ceremony - The Arlington House - John F. Kennedy and his family's Grave's - The Eternal Flame - Joe Lewis Gravesite - Sir John Dill Memorial - Ruth Bader Ginsberg memorial - Tomb of Robert Todd Lincoln - William Howard Taft Gravesite - Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial - Colombia Space Shuttle Memorial - Iran Hostage Crisis Memorial - Memorial Amphitheater

What you get

    About this experience

    Explore the solemn beauty of Arlington National Cemetery on a 2-hour walking tour that showcases its most significant sites. From the iconic JFK gravesite to the revered Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, immerse yourself in the rich history and honor the sacrifices made by those interred here. Visit the Arlington House for an insightful perspective on the grounds and their historical significance. This tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with American history in a profound setting. This tour includes: - Two-hour guided walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery - Small Group (maximum of 10 guests) - The Changing of the Guard Ceremony - The Arlington House - John F. Kennedy and his family's Grave's - The Eternal Flame - Joe Lewis Gravesite - Sir John Dill Memorial - Ruth Bader Ginsberg memorial - Tomb of Robert Todd Lincoln - William Howard Taft Gravesite - Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial - Colombia Space Shuttle Memorial - Iran Hostage Crisis Memorial - Memorial Amphitheater

    What's included

    Included

    • Languages offered: English
    • Entry to Arlington House
    • Expert Tour Guide
    • Changing of the Guard Ceremony
    • Maximum of 12 guests

    What you'll see and do

    1. Arlington National Cemetery

      More than 400,000 veterans rest across 639 acres of hallowed Virginia ground — and every one of them has a story worth knowing. On this intimate guided walking tour, you'll witness the legendary Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, stand at JFK's Eternal Flame, and uncover the remarkable Civil War origins of the estate that became America's most sacred cemetery. Small groups, expert guides, and stories you won't find on a bus tour.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. President John F. Kennedy Gravesite

      On a quiet hillside below Arlington House, a small flame has burned every single day since November 25, 1963 — lit by Jacqueline Kennedy at the end of her husband's funeral, hours after she had watched him buried. The JFK gravesite is one of the most visited and most quietly powerful places in Washington. Surrounded by Cape Cod granite and engraved with words from his inaugural address, it holds not just the 35th President, but Jackie, and two of their infant children who never lived to see their father's presidency. A few steps away lie Robert and Ted Kennedy. Standing here, with the Lincoln Memorial directly across the Potomac and the Washington Monument on the horizon, you understand why Kennedy himself once looked out at this hillside and said it was "so magnificent I could stay here forever." He does.

      10 minutes here · Admission included

    3. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

      The cemetery's most iconic site, and arguably the most powerful spot in all of Washington. Since 1921, an unidentified soldier from World War I has rested here, later joined by unknowns from WWII and Korea. A sentinel from the Army's elite 3rd Infantry Regiment guards the tomb 24 hours a day, 365 days a year — in every weather condition, without exception. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a precise, solemn ritual that stops every visitor in their tracks.

      15 minutes here · Admission included

    4. Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial

      The Greek Revival mansion at the top of the hill tells the story of how Arlington became a cemetery at all. Built by George Washington's step-grandson, it was seized by Union forces at the outbreak of the Civil War — and General Meigs deliberately placed graves as close to the house as possible, including in Mrs. Lee's rose garden, to ensure the Lee family could never return. It is one of the most calculated acts of the entire war.

      10 minutes here · Admission included

    5. Audie L. Murphy Gravesite

      One of the most visited graves in Arlington, and one of the most understated. Murphy was the most decorated American combat soldier of World War II — earning every valor award the Army offered, plus decorations from France and Belgium — and went on to become a Hollywood actor. He specifically requested that his headstone not be decorated with gold leaf, as is customary for Medal of Honor recipients. He wanted to rest like an ordinary soldier. He does.

      10 minutes here · Admission included

    6. On January 28, 1986, 73 seconds after liftoff, the Challenger disintegrated. All seven crew members were killed — including Christa McAuliffe, a schoolteacher who was to be the first civilian in space. Classrooms across America watched it live. The commingled cremated remains of the crew are interred beneath a single memorial in Section 46, inscribed with the poem "High Flight" — the same poem President Reagan quoted when he addressed the nation that evening.

      10 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Washington DC

    Go through the security check-point at the main entrance, continue through the double doors leading outside to the cemetery. There will be long stone benches, your guide will meet you close to these! Look out for a text from your guide about 1 hour before the tour start time.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    The tour will end within the cemetery at the Arlington House. From here, you can either continue exploring the cemetery on your own, or walk back with your tour guide to the main entrance of the cemetery.

    Options you can book

    • Arlington National Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

    • PRIVATE tour of the cemetery!

      Flexible Start Time: We work around your schedule! Pick anywhere from 8am-2pm. Dedicated Tour Guide: Personalize your tour with a guide who learns your interests and caters the tour to your group. Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes: Learn about stories that our public tours do not include with an additional 30 minutes of tour time!

    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 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Cornerstone Tours

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour in Washington DC, photo 2Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour in Washington DC, photo 3Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour in Washington DC, photo 4Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour in Washington DC, photo 5Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour in Washington DC, photo 6Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour in Washington DC, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 75 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    9 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    75 verified traveler reviews for Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    72
    4 star
    2
    3 star
    1
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    carissam244 · October 2026

    Walked and learned

    Derek was great! I learned a lot.

    via Tripadvisor

    Mike_L · October 2026

    Arlington with Jesse

    Quite a bit of walking both up and downhill. Not a tour to be taken by someone with mobility difficulties. The tour itself is a somber experience but one not to be missed. Jesse, our guide, was full of information which he was able to put across in a sensitive but thorough way. Changing of the guard was more ‘theatre’ than a military exercise - but entertaining nontheless! A ‘must do when in Washington ‘ tour and we would thoroughly recommend Jesse as the guide.

    Response from the operator: Thank you, Mike, for such a thoughtful and helpful review. Arlington is a hilly place to explore on foot, and your note will help others plan their visit. Jesse will be delighted that his sensitive but thorough approach came through, and all of us at Cornerstone Tours are thrilled you would recommend him to fellow travelers!

    via Viator

    899chelsier · October 2026

    Best Arlington Tour

    Will was a wonderful guide! Very informative and friendly!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for this! Will brings real warmth to Arlington, and he will be delighted to hear his knowledge and friendliness made the day for you. Everyone at Cornerstone Tours would love to welcome you back to Washington.

    via Tripadvisor

    Rustina_J · October 2026

    5 star ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Will was our tour guide, and what a knowledgeable young man. Really enjoyed all the history and the walk. Would definitely do this tour again with Will. The changing of the guards was amazing to see. We also was able to witness two wreath ceremonies. It’s was rainy and chilly and it was still a perfect tour!! Thank you, Will.

    Response from the operator: What a lovely review, Rustina, thank you! Seeing two wreath ceremonies alongside the Changing of the Guard is a rare privilege, and we are delighted the rain and chill could not dampen it. Will is going to be thrilled by your kind words, and Cornerstone Tours would love to welcome you back for another tour with him.

    via Viator

    Brandie_T · October 2026

    Great history of the...

    Great history of the cemetery that we would not have known on a self guided tour on our own . Changing of the guards was very moving.

    Response from the operator: Thank you, Brandie, for these thoughtful words. So many of Arlington's most powerful stories are easy to walk straight past on your own, and we are delighted the tour brought them to light. The Changing of the Guard moves everyone who sees it, and Cornerstone Tours would love to welcome you back to Washington!

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $45 to $345
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    28
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Cornerstone Tours, who run 9 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 58.3.

    See everything Cornerstone Tours runs

    Why this scores 80

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)94
    Review evidence (18% weight)55
    Booking momentum (14% weight)49
    Value for money (12% weight)96
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)90
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour cost?

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    Prices start at $45 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 Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour take?

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    Plan for about 2 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 Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 80 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 80 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 Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour?

    +

    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 Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour?

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    Around 28 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-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour start and how do I get there?

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    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?

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    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 Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour?

    +

    Included: Languages offered: English; Entry to Arlington House; Expert Tour Guide; Changing of the Guard Ceremony; and Maximum of 12 guests. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour?

    +

    Go through the security check-point at the main entrance, continue through the double doors leading outside to the cemetery. There will be long stone benches. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour 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 Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour?

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    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 Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Transportation options are wheelchair accessible; and All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Washington DC. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour?

    +

    Across 80 reviews averaging 5.0 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 Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour?

    +

    There are 2 options to choose from, including Arlington National Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Walking Tour, PRIVATE tour of the 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 Small-Group Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Tour.

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