What you need to know before booking an Arlington tour

Arlington National Cemetery does not sell tickets directly to visitors. Instead, you book through approved tour operators, each of which handles transportation, timing, and access differently. The cemetery itself sets the rules — no personal vehicles allowed inside, no photography at gravesites, dress code enforced — but the tour company you choose determines whether you walk the grounds, ride a bus, or use a combination, and how much time you spend at each location.

The cemetery is open year-round, but tour availability changes by season. Winter months have fewer departures. Some operators run tours only during daylight hours; others offer evening options. If you have mobility concerns, the type of tour matters enormously — a walking tour covers several miles on uneven terrain, while a bus tour keeps you seated but limits where you can stop.

Key Takeaways

  • Arlington National Cemetery requires you to book through an approved tour operator; you cannot enter with a personal vehicle or walk the grounds on your own.
  • Tour operators differ in transportation method (walking, bus, or combination), duration (typically 1.5 to 3 hours), and which sites they include.
  • The cemetery enforces a strict dress code: no tank tops, short shorts, or athletic wear; closed-toe shoes are required.
  • You will need a valid photo ID to enter, and bags are subject to search; large backpacks and luggage are not permitted.
  • Tour prices vary by operator and tour type, ranging from roughly $25 to $65 per person, and some operators offer discounts for military families or seniors.

The three main tour formats and what each covers

Walking tours are led by a guide on foot through the cemetery grounds. You will visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington House (the Robert E. Lee mansion), and major memorials. Walking tours typically last 2 to 3 hours and cover 1.5 to 2 miles. They work best if you are comfortable with sustained walking and uneven paths. Some operators offer a "highlights" version that is shorter and covers less ground.

Bus tours transport you by motorcoach through the cemetery, with stops at key sites where you exit briefly to view and photograph. A bus tour usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours total and involves less walking — typically a few hundred feet at each stop. This format suits visitors with limited mobility or those who want to cover more ground without fatigue.

Combination tours start with a bus ride to major sites, then include a guided walk through a specific area such as Arlington House or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. These typically run 2 to 2.5 hours and balance coverage with manageable walking distances.

What major tour operators offer and how they differ

Several companies hold contracts to run Arlington tours. Martz Tours, Gold Star Tours, and Monumental Tours are among the largest. Each operates slightly different routes and includes different sites in their standard tour. Martz, for example, emphasizes the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Arlington House; Gold Star includes the Kennedy gravesites and the Women in Military Service memorial; Monumental Tours offers both standard and extended options.

Tour length and price vary. A standard 2-hour bus tour typically costs $25 to $35 per adult. A 3-hour walking tour runs $40 to $55. Some operators bundle Arlington with other Washington, D.C. monuments — the Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, or others — which changes both the price and the time spent at Arlington itself. Check the operator's website or call directly to confirm which sites are included in the specific tour you are considering.

Departure points also differ. Most tours depart from a visitor center or hotel pickup location in downtown D.C. or near the Arlington Metro station. A few operators offer tours that begin at hotels on the Virginia side of the Potomac. Travel time from your hotel to the departure point is not always included in the tour duration, so factor that in when planning your day.

Rules you must follow to enter the cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is a military burial ground and active federal facility. The dress code is enforced at the gate. Wear closed-toe shoes and clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Tank tops, halter tops, short shorts, and athletic wear are not permitted. Men should wear long pants or khakis; women should wear pants, skirts, or dresses that reach the knee. Hats are allowed outdoors but must be removed indoors.

You must bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or military ID. Children under 16 do not need ID if they are with an adult who has one, but the adult must be able to vouch for them. Bags are subject to search at the entrance. Large backpacks, rolling luggage, and suitcases are prohibited. A small crossbody bag or purse is acceptable.

Photography is permitted at most sites, but not at active gravesites or during ceremonies. The tour guide will tell you where photos are and are not allowed. Smoking, alcohol, and pets are not permitted anywhere in the cemetery. If you are visiting to pay respects at a specific grave, tell your tour operator in advance — some tours can accommodate a stop at a particular location if you provide the name and section number.

How to book and what to expect on the day of your tour

Most tour operators allow you to book online through their website, by phone, or in person at their office or a hotel concierge. Online booking usually requires payment by credit card at the time of reservation. Phone booking may allow you to pay when you arrive. Cancellation policies vary — some operators offer a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance; others charge a fee. Read the cancellation terms before you book.

Arrive at the departure point 15 to 20 minutes early. The tour operator will check your ID and confirm your reservation. You will then board the bus or meet your walking guide. Tours depart on schedule; if you are late, the operator may not hold the tour. On the day of your visit, wear comfortable shoes even if you are taking a bus tour — you will walk at least a short distance at each stop.

Tours typically include a guide who provides historical context about the cemetery, the people buried there, and the memorials you visit. The guide cannot answer every question about every person buried at Arlington, but they can explain the layout, the significance of major sites, and the military history represented there. If you have a specific question about a relative or a particular grave, contact the Arlington National Cemetery information office directly before your tour.

Accessibility and special circumstances

If you use a wheelchair or have difficulty walking, bus tours are the better choice. Most tour buses have wheelchair lifts or ramps, and you can remain seated for most of the tour. Walking tours are not recommended for people with mobility limitations because the terrain is uneven and distances are substantial. When you book, mention any accessibility needs — the operator can confirm whether the specific tour you want accommodates them.

Visitors with young children should know that tours involve standing, waiting, and listening for extended periods. Some operators offer shorter "family-friendly" tours that are 1 to 1.5 hours long. Children must follow the same dress code and rules as adults. Strollers are permitted on bus tours but not on walking tours.

If you are a military family visiting to pay respects, some tour operators offer discounts or can arrange a private or semi-private tour. Contact the operator directly to discuss your situation — they may be able to customize the experience or provide information about other resources available to military families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit Arlington National Cemetery without a tour?

No. Personal vehicles are not permitted inside the cemetery, and you cannot walk the grounds on your own. You must book through an approved tour operator. The cemetery does not sell individual tickets or allow self-guided visits.

How long does a typical Arlington tour take?

Most tours run 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the format. A bus tour is usually 1.5 to 2 hours; a walking tour is 2 to 3 hours. This does not include travel time to and from the departure point or time spent waiting to board.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Spring and fall have mild weather and are the most popular seasons. Summer is hot and humid; winter is cold but has fewer crowds and shorter wait times. Tours run year-round, but winter departures are less frequent. Book in advance during peak season (April through October).

Can I take photos at Arlington?

Yes, photography is permitted at most sites and memorials. You cannot photograph active gravesites or ceremonies. The tour guide will point out where photos are not allowed. Personal photos are for your own use; you cannot sell or republish them.

Do tour operators offer discounts?

Many operators offer reduced rates for military members, veterans, seniors, and children. Some offer group discounts if you book 10 or more people. Ask the operator about discounts when you book — they are not always advertised on the website.