Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA is the hallowed ground where service members of the U.S. military are laid to rest. The cemetery has become the final resting place for more than 250,000 men and women who faithfully served their country. Two U.S. Presidents - John F. Kennedy and William Howard Taft -as well as Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the crew of the ill-fated Challenger and Audie Murphy are interred in Arlington National Cemetery.
More than four million people visit Arlington National Cemetery each year and approximately 100 graveside services are conducted each week. A first stop for visitors to the cemetery should include the Visitor Center where you can get maps and a restroom can be found.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The Tomb of the Unknowns or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier sets atop a hill overlooking Washington, D.C. According to the Cemetery's official website: "On March 4, 1921, Congress approved the burial of an unidentified American soldier from World War I in the plaza of the new Memorial Amphitheater." It is also the resting place of the Unknowns from World War II, Korea and Vietnam. The tomb is guarded 24-7 with a changing of the guard each hour with the exception of summer when it is each half-hour.
Eternal Flame
The Eternal Flame marks the grave of President John F. Kennedy.
Arlington House - Home of Robert E. Lee
Robert E. Lee and his wife, Mary Anna, lived at Arlington House until 1861, when Virginia ratified an alliance with the Confederacy and seceded from the Union. The home of Robert E. Lee serves as a memorial to Lee and all he did during the Civil War.
Hours for Arligton House
Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In April and September hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and between October and March, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Arlington National Cemetery Address: Memorial Bridge, Arlington, Virginia. (703) 607-8052
Arlington National Cemetery Hours: Open every day except Christmas. October - March hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily; April - Septemeber 8 a.m.- 7 p.m. daily.
Admission to Arlington National Cemetery: Free