Located in Arlington, Virginia, this national cemetery was established during the Civil War on the grounds of Arlington House, which was owned by Mary Anna Lee, the wife of General Robert E. Lee.

It is situated directly across the Potomac River from the Lincoln Memorial, and you can get off at the Arlington National Cemetery station on the Washington Metro's Blue Line. Because Washington and Virginia are divided by the Potomac River, it is quite visible from Washington D.C.

The cemetery is the final resting place for war casualties from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and victims of terrorism, as well as memorials for astronauts who perished in Apollo 1, STS-51-L, and STS-107, victims of the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing, and those who died in the 9/11 attacks. However, the most visited site is undoubtedly the grave of former President John F. Kennedy.

If you plan to visit Washington D.C., it might be nice to set aside a day for quiet reflection.

Must-see Points
– Tomb of the Unknown Soldier & Changing of the Guard.

– John F. Kennedy's burial site and the eternal flame.

– The seasonal scenery of the arboretum among the towering monuments.

Viewing Tips

– Opening hours are daily from 08:00 to 17:00, and there is no admission fee.

– From May 7, 2025, a federally recognized ID like REAL ID will be required for vehicle entry. (Walking and public transport entry can use regular IDs like passports.)

– If walking is difficult due to the size, consider using the shuttle tram operated by the Welcome Center (paid, 45-minute loop).

Common Etiquette & Simple Q&A

• Dress appropriately, and consume drinks and snacks only in designated areas.

• Photography is allowed, but please refrain from shutter sounds and flashes during funeral processions or guard ceremonies.

• If you have military service experience, please refer to the VA National Cemetery Administration FAQ for burial eligibility and procedures.

Sample Travel Schedule

  1. 09:00 AM – Enter Arlington National Cemetery, board the tram

  2. 10:30 AM – Watch the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

  3. 12:00 PM – Lunch at Arlington Village Cafe

  4. 1:30 PM – Take the metro/bus to the Soldiers and Airmen's Home

  5. 2:00 PM – Quietly stroll and explore Lincoln Cottage

  6. 5:00 PM – Return to downtown DC for dinner

I recommend this day course to feel the tranquility and grandeur among the splendid monuments of Washington D.C.