How to Visit Arlington National Cemetery Free

Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most hallowed grounds in the United Statesa sacred resting place for over 400,000 service members, veterans, and their families. Located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., it draws millions of visitors each year who come to pay respects, reflect, and honor the nations fallen heroes. While many assume visiting this historic site requires payment or special access, the truth is that entry to Arlington National Cemetery is completely free for all visitors. Understanding how to plan a meaningful, respectful, and logistically smooth visit without incurring costs is essential for travelers, students, history enthusiasts, and families seeking to connect with Americas military heritage.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to visiting Arlington National Cemetery at no cost. It covers everything from transportation and timing to etiquette and resources that enhance your experience. Whether youre a first-time visitor or a repeat guest, this tutorial ensures you navigate the cemetery with confidence, dignity, and full awareness of its significanceall without spending a dime.

Step-by-Step Guide

Visiting Arlington National Cemetery free of charge is not only possibleits straightforward. However, the process requires planning to ensure you make the most of your time and honor the solemnity of the site. Follow these seven essential steps to plan and execute a successful, no-cost visit.

Step 1: Confirm Your Visit Date and Time

While Arlington National Cemetery is open daily, hours vary by season. From April through September, the cemetery is open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. From October through March, hours are 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The cemetery is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. Always verify current hours on the official Arlington National Cemetery website before planning your trip.

Weekends and holidays, especially Memorial Day and Veterans Day, see the highest volumes of visitors. If your goal is a quiet, reflective experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning. Arriving early also ensures better parking availability and shorter lines at the visitor center.

Step 2: Plan Your Transportation

Getting to Arlington National Cemetery without spending money on taxis or rideshares is easy using public transit. The most convenient option is the Washington Metro system.

Take the Blue Line or Silver Line to the Arlington National Cemetery Metro station. This station is located directly across from the cemeterys main entrance on Memorial Avenue. The walk from the station to the entrance is approximately five minutes and fully accessible.

Alternatively, you can take the Orange Line to the Rosslyn station and transfer to the Arlington National Cemetery shuttle, which runs every 1520 minutes during peak hours. The shuttle is free and drops passengers directly at the cemeterys visitor center.

For those driving, parking is available on-site but limited. The main parking lot is free for all visitors, but spaces fill quickly on weekends and holidays. Arrive before 9:00 a.m. to guarantee a spot. Carpooling with others reduces congestion and environmental impact.

Step 3: Start at the Visitor Center

Upon entering the cemetery, proceed to the Visitor Center located at the main entrance. This is your first stopno ticket, fee, or reservation is required. The center offers free maps, brochures, and guided tour schedules.

Take time to review the cemeterys layout. The Visitor Center has an interactive digital kiosk that allows you to search for specific gravesites, including those of President John F. Kennedy, Senator John McCain, and General George Patton. Printouts of walking routes are available at no cost.

Staff at the Visitor Center are trained volunteers or National Park Service personnel. They can answer questions, recommend key sites to visit, and help you plan your route based on your interests and time available.

Step 4: Choose Your Walking Route

Arlington National Cemetery spans over 600 acres with more than 350,000 graves. You dont need to see everythingfocus on a few meaningful locations to make your visit impactful.

Here is a recommended free walking route:

• Start at the Visitor Center
• Walk to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (approximately 0.3 miles)
• Observe the Changing of the Guard ceremony (every hour on the hour, every day)
• Continue to the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame (0.2 miles from the Tomb)
• Visit the Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial (a 15-minute walk or take the free shuttle)
• End at the Memorial Amphitheater, where major ceremonies are held

This route covers the most iconic sites and takes roughly 23 hours to complete at a respectful pace. All paths are paved, ADA-compliant, and clearly marked. You do not need a guided tour to access these locations.

Step 5: Observe Ceremony Times

One of the most powerful experiences at Arlington is witnessing the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This ceremony occurs every hour on the hour from October through March, and every half-hour from April through September. The guards, drawn from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), perform with precision and solemnity.

Arrive 1015 minutes early to secure a respectful viewing position. The ceremony lasts approximately 20 minutes. Do not walk across the plaza during the ceremony. Remain silent and still as a sign of respect.

Additionally, the cemetery hosts public memorial services throughout the year, including wreath-laying ceremonies on holidays. These are open to the public and require no registration. Check the cemeterys calendar online for upcoming events.

Step 6: Use Free Audio and Mobile Resources

While guided tours are available for a fee, there are several free digital resources to enhance your visit without spending money.

The official Arlington National Cemetery app (available for iOS and Android) is free to download and provides:

• Interactive maps with location markers
• Audio narrations for major sites
• Grave locator search by name or service branch
• Historical context and biographies

Alternatively, visit the cemeterys official website to access downloadable audio tours and printable itineraries. These resources are curated by historians and provide depth without requiring a paid guide.

Step 7: Respect the Grounds and Leave No Trace

Arlington National Cemetery is not a park or tourist attractionit is an active military burial ground. Every grave represents a life sacrificed in service to the nation. Maintain quiet, avoid loud conversations, and never step on graves or monuments.

Do not bring pets (except service animals), food, or beverages into the cemetery. Do not leave flowers, flags, or personal items unless they are placed at a designated memorial site or grave. The cemetery staff regularly remove unauthorized items to preserve the landscape.

Photography is permitted for personal use, but avoid taking photos during active funerals or ceremonies. Always ask permission before photographing other visitors.

Best Practices

Visiting Arlington National Cemetery is an emotional and educational experience. To ensure your visit is respectful, meaningful, and seamless, follow these best practices.

Arrive Early and Plan Ahead

Early arrival not only ensures parking and shorter lines but also allows you to absorb the atmosphere before crowds arrive. Many visitors come midday, so a morning visit offers a more contemplative experience.

Before you go, research the names or service members you wish to honor. The cemeterys online database allows you to search by name, branch, or conflict. Print or save the grave location details on your phone to navigate efficiently.

Dress Appropriately

While there is no formal dress code, dressing modestly and respectfully is expected. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, hats (except for religious or medical reasons), or attire with offensive slogans. Comfortable walking shoes are essentialmuch of the cemetery is on uneven terrain and slopes.

Bring Essentials, But Keep It Light

Bring water, sunscreen, and a light jacket. The cemetery has limited shade, and summer temperatures can be high. There are no vending machines on-site, so plan accordingly. Avoid carrying large bags or backpacks, as they may be subject to inspection at entry points.

Practice Silence and Mindfulness

Speak in hushed tones, especially near gravesites and during ceremonies. Use headphones if listening to audio content. Be mindful that families may be grieving nearby. A moment of silence before visiting a grave is a powerful gesture.

Engage with the History, Not Just the Sites

Each gravestone tells a story. Take time to read inscriptions. Note the dates, ranks, and conflicts listed. Many service members died in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Recognizing these details deepens your connection to the sites purpose.

Do Not Touch or Climb on Monuments

Monuments, statues, and headstones are historic artifacts. Climbing on them, leaning against them, or touching them can cause damage. Maintain a respectful distance and observe from the designated pathways.

Teach Children Proper Etiquette

If bringing children, explain the significance of the cemetery beforehand. Practice quiet behavior and encourage them to observe rather than run or play. Consider bringing a small American flag to place respectfully at a gravethis is a common and touching tradition.

Consider a Personal Tribute

If you wish to honor a specific service member, consider writing a note and placing it in the mail to the cemeterys administrative office. They will ensure it is delivered to the appropriate family or placed at the grave if authorized. Do not leave items on-site yourself.

Tools and Resources

Planning a free visit to Arlington National Cemetery is greatly enhanced by leveraging the wide range of free, official, and community-driven tools and resources available.

Official Arlington National Cemetery Website

The website, www.arlingtoncemetery.mil, is the most authoritative source for visitor information. It provides:

• Real-time updates on closures or special events
• Interactive map of the cemetery
• Grave locator tool with over 400,000 records
• Historical timelines and educational content
• Downloadable self-guided tour brochures in PDF format

Bookmark this site and check it before and during your visit.

Arlington National Cemetery Mobile App

Available for free on Apple App Store and Google Play, the official app is a must-have tool. Features include:

• GPS-enabled navigation to specific gravesites
• Audio tours narrated by historians
• Real-time updates on ceremony schedules
• Photo gallery of notable graves and monuments
• Offline access to maps and information

The app requires no login or account and works without Wi-Fi once downloaded.

Library of Congress and National Archives Digital Collections

For deeper historical context, explore digitized records from the Library of Congress and National Archives. Search for photographs, letters, and service records of individuals buried at Arlington. Many of these resources are free to access online and can help you connect personal stories to the graves you visit.

Free Walking Tour Maps from the National Park Service

The National Park Service, which manages Arlington House, offers free downloadable maps that include walking routes, historical markers, and interpretive signs. These maps are designed for self-guided exploration and can be printed or viewed on mobile devices.

YouTube Educational Videos

Official channels such as the U.S. Army and Arlington National Cemeterys YouTube page feature short documentaries on the cemeterys history, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Changing of the Guard. Watching these before your visit enhances your appreciation and understanding.

Local Public Libraries

Many public libraries offer free access to genealogy databases like Ancestry.com and Fold3, which contain military service records. If youre searching for a specific veteran, librarians can assist with research at no cost.

Volunteer-Led Historical Tours

While some guided tours charge fees, volunteer organizations like the Arlington Historical Society occasionally offer free public walks on weekends. These are led by retired military personnel and historians who provide personal insights not found in brochures. Check their website or call ahead for schedules.

Public Transit Apps

Use free apps like Google Maps, WMATAs official app, or Transit to plan your Metro route. These apps provide real-time train arrivals, platform information, and accessibility details, ensuring you arrive without confusion or delay.

Real Examples

Real-life experiences from visitors illustrate how a free visit to Arlington National Cemetery can be deeply moving and educational. These examples demonstrate the variety of ways people connect with the site.

Example 1: A Students History Project

Emma, a 16-year-old high school student from Virginia, visited Arlington as part of a civics class assignment. She used the cemeterys online database to locate the grave of a World War II veteran who shared her last name. After finding his grave, she placed a small American flag beside it (a permitted tradition) and took a photo to include in her presentation. She later wrote: I didnt know what it meant to serve until I saw his namePrivate First Class Harold Smith, age 19. He died the same year I was born. I felt like I finally understood why we say thank you.

Example 2: A Veterans Family Reunion

The Rodriguez family traveled from Texas to honor their grandfather, a Korean War veteran buried at Arlington. They arrived by Metro, used the free app to locate his grave, and spent two hours reading his service record on their phones. They brought no flowers but shared stories aloud near his headstone. We didnt need to spend money, said Maria, his granddaughter. We just needed to be there. Thats what he would have wanted.

Example 3: A Tourist from Japan

Kenji, a retired teacher from Osaka, visited Arlington during a solo trip to the U.S. He downloaded the cemetery app in English and Japanese, followed the walking route, and sat quietly at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during a Changing of the Guard ceremony. He later wrote in his journal: In Japan, we honor our fallen with quiet rituals. Here, I saw the same reverenceexpressed differently, but just as deeply. I bowed, and I wept.

Example 4: A Teachers Classroom Trip

Mr. Thompson, a middle school history teacher, organized a field trip for his 8th-grade class. He arranged a free Metro ride, brought printed maps, and assigned each student a grave to research before the visit. Upon arrival, students shared what they learned about their assigned service member. One student found a soldier who had served in the same regiment as his great-grandfather. It wasnt about seeing monuments, Mr. Thompson said. It was about making history personal.

Example 5: A Veterans Final Visit

James, a Vietnam veteran in his 70s, returned to Arlington for the first time since 1972. He had lost his brother, a Marine, buried in Section 34. He arrived by bus, walked slowly to the grave, and placed a single white rose. He did not speak to anyone. After 45 minutes, he left without saying a word. A volunteer noticed him and quietly handed him a card with the cemeterys phone number. He declined it. I didnt need help, he later wrote in a letter to the cemetery. I needed to remember.

FAQs

Is it really free to visit Arlington National Cemetery?

Yes. There is no entrance fee, parking fee, or ticket required to visit Arlington National Cemetery. All areas open to the public, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Kennedy gravesite, and Arlington House, are accessible at no cost.

Do I need to make a reservation to visit?

No reservations are required for general visitation. However, if you plan to attend a specific ceremony such as a funeral or wreath-laying event, you may need to register in advance. These events are rare and clearly listed on the official website.

Can I bring my dog to Arlington National Cemetery?

No. Pets are not permitted on the grounds, except for service animals trained to assist individuals with disabilities.

Are guided tours free?

Some guided tours offered by third-party companies charge fees. However, the cemetery itself provides free self-guided resources, including maps, apps, and audio tours. Volunteer-led historical walks are occasionally offered at no costcheck the official website for schedules.

Can I take photos at Arlington National Cemetery?

Yes, personal photography is allowed. However, do not photograph active funerals or ceremonies. Always ask permission before photographing other visitors. Commercial photography requires a permit.

Is the cemetery accessible for people with mobility issues?

Yes. All major pathways are paved and ADA-compliant. Wheelchairs and electric scooters are permitted. The Visitor Center offers wheelchairs on a first-come, first-served basis. The shuttle service between the Visitor Center and Arlington House is also wheelchair-accessible.

What should I do if I cant find a specific grave?

Use the free grave locator tool on the official website or app. Enter the name, branch, or date of death. If youre still having trouble, visit the Visitor Centerthe staff can help you locate the grave using paper maps and databases.

Can I leave flowers or flags at a grave?

You may place a small American flag at a grave during national holidays such as Memorial Day or Veterans Day. Otherwise, do not leave personal items. The cemetery removes unauthorized items to maintain the landscape. If you wish to honor someone, consider sending a note to the cemeterys administrative office.

How long should I plan to spend at Arlington National Cemetery?

A minimum of two hours is recommended to visit the key sites. Many visitors spend three to four hours. If youre researching specific graves or attending a ceremony, allow more time.

Are there restrooms and water fountains available?

Yes. Restrooms are located near the Visitor Center and at Arlington House. Water fountains are available but limited. Bring your own water, especially in warmer months.

Can I visit Arlington National Cemetery at night?

No. The cemetery closes at sunset and is not open for visitation after hours. The grounds are secured and patrolled at night.

Conclusion

Visiting Arlington National Cemetery free of charge is not just possibleit is an experience that transcends cost. The value of this visit lies not in what you spend, but in what you feel, learn, and remember. Every step you take on these grounds honors a life that gave everything for the nation. The tools, resources, and practices outlined in this guide empower you to engage with Arlington in a way that is respectful, meaningful, and deeply personalall without spending a single dollar.

Whether youre a student uncovering history, a veteran reconnecting with comrades, a family member seeking closure, or a curious traveler drawn to Americas soul, Arlington welcomes you. There are no barriers, no fees, no exclusions. Only the quiet dignity of a nations gratitude.

Plan your visit with care. Walk with reverence. Listen to the silence between the footsteps. And when you leave, carry with you not just memories, but a deeper understanding of what service, sacrifice, and memory truly mean.