The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Prominent marble monument in Arlington National Cemetery marking an unknown WWI solider's grave.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is rated 4.9 / 5 from 18,584 Google reviews and sits about 2.3 km (29 min walk) from Clarendon station.
General overview
About The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a solemn memorial at Arlington National Cemetery honoring unidentified U.S. service members. It is guarded continuously by the U.S. Army’s 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as The Old Guard. Admission to the cemetery and tomb area is generally free, but visitors must pass cemetery security and follow access instructions. Details below are based on general training knowledge and have not been live-verified.
- Continuous ceremonial guard maintained by The Old Guard.
- Changing of the Guard ceremony, traditionally conducted hourly in the off-season and more frequently during the busier season.
- The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, also called the Tomb of the Unknowns, honors unidentified service members from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
- Located on a hill overlooking Washington, D.C., with views toward the Lincoln Memorial and the Potomac River.
- Part of Arlington National Cemetery, which includes the Memorial Amphitheater and many other significant military memorials and graves.
Things to do here
Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Approach the monument respectfully, observe the honor guard, and view the inscription and ceremonial setting. Visitors should remain quiet and follow staff directions.
Changing of the Guard
A highly formal military ceremony traditionally held every hour from October through March and every half-hour from April through September, with more frequent scheduling during portions of the day in the warmer season. Exact times can vary and should be confirmed before visiting.
Memorial Amphitheater
The Tomb is adjacent to the Memorial Amphitheater, a major cemetery venue used for commemorative events and national ceremonies.
Explore Arlington National Cemetery
Combine the visit with the cemetery’s other memorials, notable graves, overlooks, and exhibits. The cemetery is extensive, so walking distances can be substantial.
Use the Arlington National Cemetery visitor center as a navigation and orientation point. Allow time for security screening. The Tomb is uphill from the visitor center and involves walking on paved but sloping paths; comfortable shoes are recommended.
No advance reservation is normally required for the Tomb itself. Reserve separately if using a commercial tour or Arlington’s interpretive tram service. Verify ceremony times before traveling.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
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See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is about 2.3 km (~29 min walk) from Clarendon 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.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get to The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from Clarendon station?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is about 2325 m (roughly 29 min walk) from Clarendon station on the Washington Metro. Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier rated?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has a Google rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 18,584 reviews.
What's near The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Hyatt Centric Arlington, US Marine Corps War Memorial, Filomena Ristorante.
Is The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking.
Is there parking near The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
Google lists these parking options near The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: free parking lot, paid parking lot, paid street parking.
Is The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier good for children?
Yes — Google lists The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as good for children.
Is there an admission fee for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
The Tomb and Arlington National Cemetery are generally free to visit. Separate fees may apply for parking, tram service, or commercial tours.
Do I need a ticket or reservation?
Normally, no ticket or reservation is required for an independent visit to the Tomb. Advance arrangements may be useful for commercial tours or special programs.
How often does the guard change?
The traditional schedule is hourly from October through March and every half-hour from April through September, with some seasonal variations. Confirm the current schedule because ceremonies may be altered or suspended.
Can I watch the guard ceremony?
Visitors can generally observe from the designated public area, but access may be limited during official events, ceremonies, weather disruptions, or security operations.
Can I touch the Tomb or speak during the ceremony?
Visitors should not touch the monument, cross barriers, or speak disruptively. Maintain silence and follow all instructions from the guards and cemetery staff.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow at least 30–60 minutes for security, walking to the Tomb, viewing the memorial, and observing a ceremony. Allow several hours to explore more of Arlington National Cemetery.
Is the Tomb suitable for wheelchair users?
Many cemetery routes are accessible, but Arlington is hilly and distances are long. Ask staff for an accessible route and current transportation options.
Can I bring a camera?
Ordinary personal photography is generally allowed outdoors, provided it does not interfere with ceremonies, security, or other visitors.
Where should I park?
The visitor-center parking area is the main practical option, usually with paid parking and limited capacity. Public transportation or a tour may be more convenient during busy periods.
Are the hours and ceremony times guaranteed?
No. They are typical schedules based on general information and may change for holidays, funerals, ceremonies, weather, or security reasons.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.