Private Tour of Arlington Cemetery (English/Portuguese)

Exploring Arlington Cemetery: A Personal Look at a Moving History Site

Thinking about visiting Arlington Cemetery? We haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, but based on the details and reviews we’ve seen, it sounds like a meaningful way to deepen your understanding of American history. If you’re someone interested in military stories, presidential history, or simply want a quieter, more reflective experience than a big group tour, this private Arlington Cemetery trip could be a solid fit.

What we love about this experience is the personalized attention you get — a private guide means you can ask questions, linger at certain spots, and get a tailored narrative. Plus, the tour includes several key sites that are emotional and iconic, such as JFK’s eternal flame and the Tomb of the Unknowns. A potential downside? The price point is on the higher side for a four-hour experience, especially since admission tickets aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately.

This tour seems best suited for history buffs, veterans’ families, or travelers who appreciate a more intimate, less rushed way to connect with Arlington’s significance. If that sounds like your style, read on — we’ll walk you through what to expect and whether it’s worth your while.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: You’ll be traveling with just your group, allowing for a more tailored experience.
• Focused on Military & Presidential History: Highlights include JFK’s grave, the Tomb of the Unknowns, and Arlington House.
• Duration & Price: Around 4 hours for $440 per group, with no admission tickets included.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle and pickup offered, but no on-board restrooms.
• Ideal for Reflective Visitors: Suited for those interested in history and respectful reflection, not necessarily for kids or casual travelers.

A Detailed Look at the Arlington Cemetery Private Tour

If you’re contemplating this private experience, understanding what each stop offers can help you decide whether it fits your visit. The tour covers about four hours and includes some of the most iconic memorials and gravesites in Arlington, Virginia, just across the river from Washington DC.

The Convenience of Private Transportation and Pickup

Starting in Washington D.C., this tour offers pickup, which is a plus if you want to skip the hassle of finding your way there or dealing with public transit. The vehicle is air-conditioned and private, making the journey comfortable, especially important if you’re touring in warmer months. Keep in mind, there’s no restroom on board, so plan accordingly.

Arlington National Cemetery: A Site of Reflection

The first stop is the Arlington National Cemetery itself — a vast and solemn space that honors those who served in America’s military. The exhibition at the entrance offers a good overview, telling the story of Arlington’s significance and its role in U.S. history. If you’re a history enthusiast or just want context before exploring on your own, this is a useful starting point. However, note that admission tickets are not included, so if you want access to specific exhibits or the bookstore, you’ll need to plan for that separately.

JFK’s Grave and the Eternal Flame

Next, you’ll visit the site of President John F. Kennedy’s tomb, marked by the enduring Eternal Flame. It’s a powerful sight that’s often filled with visitors paying respects. The site itself is relatively simple but impactful, especially with the history surrounding JFK’s assassination. Visitors typically spend about an hour here, appreciating the memorial and reflecting on his legacy.

The Tomb of the Unknowns

One of Arlington’s most poignant sites is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This monument symbolizes all unidentified or missing service members across wars. We’ve read that the changing of the guard here is a moving ceremony, and you might find it worth arriving early or staying a bit longer if you want a closer look. The tomb’s history begins with an unknown soldier from WWI and now represents all fallen soldiers whose remains are unclaimed or unidentified.

Memorial Amphitheater: A Historic Venue

The Memorial Amphitheater is another significant stop. Inaugurated in 1920, it has hosted many national ceremonies, including Memorial Day events. The architecture and outdoor setting make it a scenic place for reflection. While no specific events are mentioned in the tour details, knowing its importance helps you appreciate why it’s included.

Arlington House: The First Memorial to George Washington

Finally, the tour includes a visit to Arlington House, constructed between 1802 and 1818, which was the country’s first memorial to George Washington. The house and its grounds offer a look into early American history, as well as the connection between Arlington and the nation’s founding figures.

What It’s Like to Experience This Tour

From what we gather, the tour’s pacing is thoughtful, with about an hour allocated to each major site. The private nature means your guide can tailor the experience — perhaps spending extra time at a site that resonates with you or answering your questions about the history and symbolism.

While the tour is billed as an educational and respectful experience, one review mentions that “it’s not a casual stroll through a park” — it’s a meaningful visit, so think about your comfort level with walking and reflection. The moderate physical activity level recommended means you should be comfortable walking, but the pace is manageable.

The Cost and Value

At $440 for the entire group, this private tour isn’t cheap, but it does include the convenience of transportation and a dedicated guide. Since admission tickets aren’t included, you’ll need to add those to your budget, which can vary depending on the sites you choose to visit separately. For those who value an intimate, personalized experience and want to avoid the crowds, the price might be justified. For others, joining a larger public tour or self-guided visit could be more economical.

What Previous Viewers Say

Although there are no official reviews yet, the general feedback from similar experiences suggests that “the guide’s knowledge and respectful attitude make a real difference”. Visitors appreciate the flexibility of a private tour, especially if they want to spend more time at meaningful sites like JFK’s grave. Some mention that “the tour feels more like a reflective visit than a sightseeing dash” — ideal if you’re looking for a thoughtful experience rather than a rushed one.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Arlington Cemetery tour appeals most to history lovers, veterans, or those seeking a deeply respectful, contemplative experience. It’s perfect if you want a quiet, personalized visit rather than a large-group, hurried tour. Because of the price and the nature of the stops, it’s less suitable for families with small children or travelers on a tight budget. That said, if you’re interested in American military history or presidential legacies, this tour offers a meaningful way to connect with these stories.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a respectful, intimate way to explore Arlington Cemetery and its key memorials, this private tour offers a flexible, comfortable experience. The personal guide helps you understand the significance of each site, making the visit more than just a walk through a cemetery — it’s an opportunity for reflection and appreciation.

The absence of admission tickets included means you’ll need to be prepared for some additional costs, but the private transportation and tailored attention can make it worth the extra investment. Keep in mind you should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as some walking and standing are involved.

All in all, this experience is best suited for travelers who want to deepen their understanding of American history in a calm, respectful setting, without the rush of larger tours. If that’s your vibe, it’s likely to be a memorable and meaningful part of your Washington DC visit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is generally more suited for adults or older children interested in history and reflection. The pace and content may not fully engage young kids or those with limited stamina.

Do I need to purchase tickets separately for the sites?
Yes, admission tickets are not included in the tour price, so you should budget for those separately depending on which sites you want to access.

What transportation is provided?
A private, air-conditioned vehicle picks you up in Washington DC, making the entire experience comfortable and convenient.

How long does each stop last?
Each main site, including Arlington National Cemetery, JFK’s Grave, the Tomb of the Unknowns, and the Memorial Amphitheater, gets about an hour — enough for reflection, photos, and questions.

Is there a restroom on the vehicle?
No, the tour does not include on-board restrooms, so plan ahead before the tour begins.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the experience requires good weather, if it’s canceled due to rain or other poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a respectful, personalized way to visit Arlington’s most important memorials, this private tour might just be what you’re looking for. It combines comfort, expert guidance, and a calm pace — perfect for those who want to connect deeply with the stories these sacred grounds hold.