Washington DC: Arlington Nat. Cemetery Ticket & Tram Tour

If you’re visiting Washington D.C., a trip to Arlington National Cemetery is a must. This tour offers a comprehensive and respectful way to see the sprawling grounds, paying homage to American military heroes. Priced at just $20 per person, it provides a well-rounded, informative experience — especially if you prefer to avoid extensive walking or want a deeper understanding of this national landmark through engaging narration.

One standout feature we love is the full narration, which enriches the visit with historical context and stories about the site’s significance. The stops at iconic sites like the JFK Gravesite and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are thoughtfully timed, giving you the opportunity for memorable photos and reflection. However, a potential consideration is the limited time at each stop, which some guests have noted might feel a bit rushed, especially on busy days with road closures. This tour is ideal for history buffs, those with limited mobility, or visitors who want a structured, insightful overview of Arlington.

Whether you’re on a tight schedule or want to maximize your understanding of Arlington’s history, this tour offers a practical and meaningful way to experience one of America’s most revered sites.

Key Points

• Affordable and accessible: At $20, it offers good value for a guided experience of Arlington.
• Comprehensive stops: Visit the JFK Gravesite, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and Arlington House with insightful narration.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Dave and Tyrone make the history engaging and memorable.
• Suitable for all: Fully accessible for guests with mobility aids and those who prefer not to walk long distances.
• Time-efficient: 45-minute to 1-hour tours pack a lot into a short window, ideal for busy schedules.
• Memorable highlights: Changing of the guard and scenic views from Arlington House are often praised.

A Deep Dive into the Arlington Nat. Cemetery Tram Tour

This tour, operated by Historic Tours of America, provides a straightforward, respectful way to explore Arlington without the fatigue of walking miles. It’s especially good for first-time visitors or those with limited time, as it covers the highlights in about 45 minutes during weekdays, extending to around an hour on weekends.

What to Expect and How It Works

You meet your guide at the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center, where you’ll hop aboard a brightly colored trolley with a friendly guide. The narration is fully in English and offers context about the site’s history, the significance of each stop, and stories about the people buried there.

Your journey begins at the Women In Military Service For America Memorial, a poignant starting point that honors women’s contributions to the military. From there, you’ll pass by the JFK Gravesite, which many guests find to be a touching moment — a chance to pay respects to the nation’s 35th president. The guide’s commentary adds depth here, explaining the significance of the site and sharing lesser-known details.

Next, you’ll stop at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a profoundly moving site where you can witness the changing of the guard — a ritual that occurs every hour from October to March, and every half hour from April to September. Guests have found this to be one of the most memorable parts of the tour, describing it as “impressive” and “touching.”

The final major stop is the Arlington House, also known as the Robert E. Lee Memorial. This mansion offers a fantastic vantage point of D.C. and the surrounding landscape, along with stories about its history and its former residents. Many reviews highlight the scenic views and the educational commentary about Arlington’s varied past, including its Civil War roots and connection to George Washington’s family.

The tour concludes back at the Women In Military Service For America Memorial, making it easy to continue exploring or head to other attractions.

What We Really Love

The guided narration is a standout feature — guides like Dave and Tyrone are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to keep the group engaged. One reviewer noted, “Ann our narrated was awesome,” emphasizing how the guides’ storytelling made the experience more meaningful. The tour’s accessibility is also well-received, with many mentioning that it accommodated guests with scooters or limited mobility.

Plus, the value for money is impressive. For just $20, you get a well-organized, educational tour that touches on the most significant sites. Guests appreciate the convenience of the tram, especially on hot or rainy days, and how it saves the fatigue associated with walking through over 600 acres of hallowed ground.

Limitations and Considerations

Some visitors have mentioned that there can be a lot of road closures, which may slightly extend the tour time or limit access to certain areas. One review pointed out, “To many road closings, too much walking for the old,” suggesting the tour might involve some uphill stretches and walking, particularly to the JFK gravesite.

Others noted that timing can be tight, with only about 45 minutes on weekdays and slightly longer on weekends. If you’re a photography enthusiast or want more time at each site, you may feel a little hurried. It’s also worth noting that wait times for the trolley can occasionally be longer than expected during peak times, especially if the schedule is disrupted.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive early at the Welcome Center to avoid lines, especially if you have an e-ticket.
• Bring your passport or ID for check-in.
• Be prepared for metal detector screening; bags will be scanned.
• Wear comfortable shoes, even if you plan to stay on the tram, as some walking may be needed.
• During the changing of the guard, guards switch every hour or half hour, depending on the season, so check the schedule if you want to witness this ceremony.
• The tour is suitable for all ages and mobility levels, but consider the physical demands if you plan to explore beyond the tram stops.

Why This Tour Works Well

This tram tour offers a respectful and educational experience that balances convenience with depth. It’s particularly suited for visitors who want to learn about Arlington’s historical significance without spending hours walking or navigating complex schedules. The guided narration brings the site alive, making it more than just a sightseeing trip — it becomes a meaningful tribute.

The cost-effective price makes it accessible for most travelers, and the fully accessible vehicle ensures everyone can participate. The stops are carefully curated to highlight the most important and poignant memorials, including the JFK Gravesite, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and Arlington House — all of which offer visual and emotional highlights.

In addition, the positive reviews about guides like Dave, Tyrone, and Ann demonstrate that knowledgeable, personable guides really elevate the experience. Many guests also appreciated how the tour managed to be both informative and respectful, which is vital given the site’s solemn nature.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Arlington National Cemetery tram tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors who want a rundown without the hassle of walking long distances. It’s an excellent choice for seniors or those with mobility challenges, thanks to its accessibility and the convenience of traveling by comfortable trolley.

If you’re visiting during a busy period or prefer a guided experience that enriches your visit with stories and context, this tour delivers. The reasonable price-tag ensures it’s a good-value option, especially if you consider how much it covers — from the graves of presidents to Civil War landmarks.

However, if you’re a photography buff or want to linger at each site, you might find the quick stops a little limiting. Also, be prepared for potential delays or road closures that may affect your schedule.

All in all, for an authentic, respectful, and well-guided overview of Arlington’s most iconic sites, this tour hits the mark. It’s a respectful tribute and a practical way to absorb the significance of Arlington National Cemetery in a short time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
During Monday to Friday, the tour lasts approximately 45 minutes. On weekends, it extends to about an hour.

Where do I meet the tour?
You meet your guide at the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center, near the blue trolley with a yellow roof.

What sites are visited on the tour?
You’ll stop at three main locations: the Women In Military Service For America Memorial, the JFK Gravesite, and the Arlington House. You also pass by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Is the tour accessible for guests with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is fully accessible. Many reviews mention that it accommodates scooters and wheelchairs comfortably.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve your spot ahead of time. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, as well as comfortable shoes. Bags will be scanned at the Welcome Center, so avoid bringing large luggage or bags.

Does the tour include narration?
Yes, an on-board guide provides a full narration in English, sharing historical insights and stories about the cemetery.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely, especially at key sites like the JFK Gravesite and Arlington House, which offer great photo opportunities.

To sum it up, this Arlington National Cemetery tram tour offers a respectful, educational, and cost-effective way to explore one of America’s most significant sites. It’s well-suited for those wanting a guided experience with meaningful stops, particularly if mobility or time is a concern. The knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and thoughtful itinerary make it a worthwhile addition to any Washington D.C. visit.