Private Arlington Cemetery & Mount Vernon Tour

If you’re visiting Washington, D.C., and want a meaningful, in-depth look at some of America’s most iconic sites, this Private Arlington Cemetery & Mount Vernon Tour might just be what you need. Spanning about seven hours, it combines a respectful visit to Arlington National Cemetery with a captivating tour of George Washington’s estate, Mount Vernon. The fact that it’s a private experience means you’ll enjoy personalized attention and flexibility, making it ideal for those who prefer a tailored, intimate journey through history.

What truly sets this tour apart is the guided experience—your knowledgeable guide will bring the stories to life, sharing insights you won’t find in the guidebooks. The changing of the guard at Arlington, combined with a comprehensive tour of Mount Vernon’s mansion and grounds, offers a well-balanced mix of solemn remembrance and presidential history.

However, there’s a small caveat—since the tour covers two major sites in a single day, it’s a fairly full schedule. If you’re looking for a super relaxed pace or want more free time at each location, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for history enthusiasts eager to cover both sites with expert guidance, it’s a fantastic value and experience.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who appreciate stories behind historical landmarks, value guided insights, and enjoy immersive, private experiences. It’s especially ideal for those traveling in small groups seeking a flexible, well-organized day out.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Experience: Small group, tailored to your needs, with a knowledgeable guide.
• In-Depth Guided Tours: Inside access to Arlington Cemetery and Mount Vernon, with expert commentary.
• Historical Significance: Visit two of America’s most iconic sites—pay respects at Arlington and explore George Washington’s estate.
• Convenient Transportation: Pickups available from Washington, Virginia, and Maryland, with drop-offs at your choice of locations.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Book now, pay later, with free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• Value for Money: For $550 per group (up to four people), you get a full, guided day that covers transportation, entry fees, and detailed tours.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

Starting with your choice of pickup location—Washington, Virginia, or Maryland—the tour offers flexibility to accommodate your accommodation or preferred starting point. From there, the day unfolds with a well-organized schedule designed to maximize your experience without overloading your senses.

Arlington National Cemetery (about 1 hour) is the first major stop. Here, you’ll witness the changing of the guard—a moving ceremony that’s both precise and reverent. Your guide will lead you through the grounds, highlighting the significance of notable graves, such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The guided tour inside Arlington offers a chance to understand the cemetery’s history and its role in national remembrance. One traveler shared that the guide was “very knowledgeable,” making the experience more meaningful.

Next, a quick 30-minute stop in Old Town Alexandria allows for a brief glimpse into this charming historic district. While only a short visit, it provides a nice contrast to the solemnity of Arlington, offering a chance to stretch your legs and soak in some local ambiance.

The highlight of the day is Mount Vernon (about 2 hours). The estate isn’t just a house—it’s a sprawling, beautifully preserved slice of early American history. Your guided tour takes you inside the mansion, where you’ll learn about George Washington’s life beyond the battlefield. Walking through the rooms, you’ll get a sense of his personal life and leadership. Visiting Washington’s tomb is an emotional moment, and the estate’s grounds provide stunning views of the Potomac River. One reviewer mentioned, “Brittany knew so much about the history” and was very friendly, which made the visit even more enjoyable.

Transport and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with pick-up and drop-off included in three designated locations. This setup offers convenience, especially if you’re staying in one of the cities or suburbs. The timing is designed to balance in-depth exploration with enough time to enjoy each site, though it’s worth noting that the schedule tends to be fairly packed—so be prepared for a full day.

What’s Included?

For $550, your fee covers entry to Mount Vernon and the mansion tour, as well as a guided experience inside Arlington Cemetery, whether via walking or trolley. The guide’s insights enrich the experience, providing context and stories that bring these historic sites alive. The tour also emphasizes the private group aspect, ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Reviews and Guide Highlights

Both reviewers raved about the guides—calling Brittany “very friendly” and knowledgeable. They appreciated the depth of information and the personal touch, which made the experience memorable. One reviewer noted, “We loved our guide and the whole tour. Amazing!” indicating a high level of satisfaction with the execution and storytelling.

The Value Proposition and Who Will Enjoy It

This tour offers excellent value for those eager to see Arlington and Mount Vernon without the hassle of organizing transportation or navigational logistics. The fee includes guided tours, entry fees, and transportation, making it a straightforward, stress-free way to experience these historic sites.

It’s especially suited for travelers who:

• Want a personalized, private experience rather than a large group tour
• Appreciate guided narratives that add depth to their visit
• Are interested in both military and presidential history
• Need a full-day itinerary that covers significant sites efficiently
• Prefer flexible pickup and drop-off locations for convenience

If you’re an enthusiast of American history, or simply seeking a meaningful, well-structured day in the D.C. area, this tour offers the perfect blend of education, respect, and storytelling.

Final Thoughts

This Private Arlington Cemetery & Mount Vernon Tour balances depth and convenience. The knowledgeable guides, especially the consistently praised Brittany, turn a standard sightseeing trip into a compelling story about America’s past. The inclusion of Arlington’s solemn ceremonies is a highlight, while Mount Vernon offers a personal look into George Washington’s life that many visitors find moving.

The private setting makes it ideal for couples, small families, or history buffs who want an intimate experience. The full-day format ensures you get a comprehensive glimpse into the nation’s capital’s most revered landmarks without feeling overly rushed—though it’s perfect for those who enjoy a packed, engaging itinerary.

If you’re after a well-rounded, insightful, and authentic experience of key American icons, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just be ready for a day of walking, learning, and absorbing stories that put history into context.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for most ages, especially those interested in history. Keep in mind the full schedule, so very young children may need extra breaks.

How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll have about an hour at Arlington Cemetery, 30 minutes in Old Town Alexandria, and roughly 2 hours at Mount Vernon. These times are designed to balance exploration with efficiency.

Are the tours indoors or outdoors?
Most of the tour involves outdoor walking, particularly at Arlington and Mount Vernon. The mansion tour inside Mount Vernon is indoors but included as part of the estate visit.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, your guide can adjust the emphasis slightly based on your interests, within the structure of the scheduled sites.

What language are the guides speaking?
Guides speak English, and the tour is conducted in that language.

Is there any free time during the tour?
The schedule is quite tight to cover all sites, so free time is minimal. However, the private nature means guides can sometimes tailor the pace slightly if needed.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is included, with pickups from Washington, Virginia, or Maryland, and drop-offs at your choice of locations.

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances historical significance with personal attention. Perfect for those who want to truly understand the stories behind Washington’s most revered sites while enjoying a flexible, private day out.