Arlington National Cemetery: A Place of Honor and Reflection
Just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most solemn and meaningful landmarks in the United States. Spanning over 600 acres, it is the final resting place for more than 400,000 service members, veterans, and their families. Visiting here is not only a chance to honor their sacrifice but also to reflect on the cost of freedom and the resilience of a nation.
Why Visit Arlington National Cemetery?
A place of remembrance: The resting place of those who served the nation with courage.
Changing of the Guard: The precision and discipline of this ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is unforgettable.
Historic burials: Presidents, Supreme Court justices, and explorers like John Glenn are among those laid to rest here.
Striking views: The cemetery offers sweeping views of Washington, D.C., including the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.
Travel Tip: Time your visit to witness the Changing of the Guard — it happens every 30 minutes in summer and every hour in winter.
Best Ways to Experience It
Start at the Visitor Center for maps, exhibits, and orientation.
Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and stay for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Stop at John F. Kennedy’s Eternal Flame, one of the most visited grave sites.
Walk or take the guided tram tour to explore key landmarks throughout the cemetery.
Seeing Arlington National Cemetery with Kids
Visiting with children requires thoughtful preparation to help them understand the importance of this landmark:
Set the tone: Explain beforehand that this is a quiet place of respect, not a playground.
Focus on stories: Share age-appropriate stories of bravery and service to make the experience meaningful.
Keep it short: The grounds are vast, so choose a few key sites rather than trying to see everything.
Engage curiosity: Encourage kids to look for symbols on headstones and explain what they mean.
BTV Takeaway
Arlington National Cemetery is more than a stop on a trip — it’s a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and the resilience of the American spirit. Standing among the rows of white headstones or watching the Changing of the Guard, you’ll feel a deep sense of respect and connection. Mark it on your Landmark Challenge bottle as proof you’ve experienced one of the nation’s most sacred places.
