Arlington National Cemetery
Vast military cemetery featuring JFK’s eternal flame, Memorial Amphitheater & Tomb of the Unknowns.
Arlington National Cemetery is rated 4.8 / 5 from 3,848 Google reviews and sits about 3.6 km (45 min walk) from Ballston–MU station.
General overview
About Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is a historic military cemetery overlooking Washington, D.C., and the final resting place of more than 400,000 active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible family members. Highlights include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the changing of the guard, President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, Arlington House, and extensive memorial landscapes. Admission to the cemetery is generally free. None of the information below has been live-verified; confirm current details on the official website before relying on them.
- Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the ceremonial changing of the guard
- John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis gravesites and eternal flame
- Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial
- U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial nearby
- Memorial Amphitheater and the annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances
- Historic graves, monuments, and views toward Washington, D.C.
Things to do here
Explore the cemetery on foot
Walk among historic sections, monuments, and gravesites. The grounds include hills and long distances, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
A formal military ceremony traditionally conducted hourly during the cemetery’s open season and every half-hour at other times, subject to weather, operations, and ceremonial schedules.
Arlington National Cemetery tram tour
A narrated hop-on, hop-off-style tour operated by an authorized concessioner, typically stopping at major sites such as the Kennedy gravesites, Arlington House, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Memorial Amphitheater.
Visit Arlington House
Tour the historic plantation house and Robert E. Lee Memorial, when open. Access may involve a walk or tram stop and can be affected by restoration or operating schedules.
Visit the Memorial Amphitheater
See the amphitheater, ceremonial spaces, and nearby graves and memorials. Public access may vary during services and special events.
Observe a military funeral or ceremony from permitted public areas
Funerals and ceremonies take place regularly. Visitors must remain respectful, follow staff instructions, and avoid interfering with services.
Use public transportation when possible; the cemetery is served by Arlington Cemetery Metro station. Allow extra time for security screening and walking between sites. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and plan for steep or uneven sections.
General entry normally does not require a reservation. Consider arranging a tram tour in advance during peak spring, summer, and autumn periods. Check current access rules for Arlington House and special events.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
Arlington National Cemetery is about 3.6 km (~45 min walk) from Ballston–MU station on the Washington Metro.
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Arlington National Cemetery from Ballston–MU station?
Arlington National Cemetery is about 3571 m (roughly 45 min walk) from Ballston–MU station on the Washington Metro. Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Arlington National Cemetery rated?
Arlington National Cemetery has a Google rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 3,848 reviews.
What's near Arlington National Cemetery?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Hilton Arlington, The Westin Arlington, Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Ballston.
Is Arlington National Cemetery wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Arlington National Cemetery: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking.
Is there parking near Arlington National Cemetery?
Google lists these parking options near Arlington National Cemetery: free parking lot, paid parking lot, paid street parking.
Is Arlington National Cemetery free to visit?
Yes. General entry to the cemetery is generally free. Authorized tram tours and some special programs may charge a fee.
How long should I plan to stay?
Allow at least two hours for the principal highlights. Three to four hours is more comfortable if you want to include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Kennedy gravesites, Arlington House, and the Memorial Amphitheater.
Can I see the changing of the guard?
Usually, yes, when the ceremony is being conducted. Timing varies by season and may change because of weather, ceremonies, funerals, or military operations. Arrive early and verify the current schedule.
Can I visit a specific gravesite?
Yes, visitors may generally visit public gravesites. Use the cemetery’s official grave locator or ask at the Welcome Center for directions. Expect substantial walking or use the tram where available.
Are funerals held during visiting hours?
Yes. Funerals and military services occur regularly. Visitors must keep a respectful distance, remain quiet, and follow staff instructions.
Is the cemetery suitable for wheelchairs?
Major visitor areas have accessibility provisions, but the terrain is hilly and some routes are challenging. Contact the cemetery before visiting to discuss specific mobility needs.
Can I bring a camera?
Personal photography is generally allowed in public areas, provided it is respectful and does not interfere with services, ceremonies, or security.
Should I take public transportation?
Usually. Arlington Cemetery Metro station provides convenient access, while on-site and nearby parking can be limited and costly.
Are food and drinks allowed?
Water and small personal refreshments may be subject to screening and site rules. Picnicking, alcohol, and eating near graves or ceremonies are inappropriate and may be restricted.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.