Arlington National Cemetery

Washington, D.C., United States

Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most famous cemeteries in the world. The United States military cemetery was established during the Civil War on the grounds of Arlington House, which had been the estate of the family of Confederate general Robert E. Lee's wife Mary Anna Lee. On June 15, 1864, the Arlington House property and 200 acres of surrounding land were designated as a military cemetery as Quartermaster General Montgomery C. Meigs wanted to ensure that Lee could not return to the site.

Today the cemetery is the final resting place for more than 300,000 veterans died in every American conflict, from the Revolutionary War to Iraq and Afghanistan.

The first soldier to be buried in Arlington was Private William Henry Christman of Pennsylvania on May 13, 1864. The most famous people buried to Arlington are Presidents William Howard Taft and John F. Kennedy. Also Kennedy's two brothers, Senator Robert F. Kennedy and Senator Edward 'Ted' Kennedy, and General of the Armies John J. Pershing are buried there.

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4.8/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Ian Lever (3 years ago)
Powerful and historical being there. We watched the changing of the guard that happens every hour in the winter and it was a unique experience that was new to me. The park rangers were really nice too and provided some interesting historical perspectives.
Iris (3 years ago)
Wonderful place to visit. It was very humbling to get a glimpse of the lives that have been sacrificed. Very humbling and inspiring. The grounds are immaculate and the guards are very efficient.
Dina Maureen Hogan (3 years ago)
Happy Birthday Dad...in heaven. Absolutely, the best man i ever met in this life. How lucky was I. Miss you everyday! My life without you was so difficult....could of been a marine....haha. You are my heart, my soul, your daughter. Love forever...Din
Nick Lorch (3 years ago)
The hauntingly gorgeous hills of Arlington looks down onto D.C. and reminds those that are public servants that all who came before them served the vision of our country. This hallowed land memorializes and is a reminder that the present day politicians legacy and dedication to this countries people and our freedom is sacred. May all those in power not use this space for publicity but reflection and to carry on the ideals of the creators of this special country!
Kayyee Tracy (3 years ago)
First time going. Pay for the train. It’s super cheap, it runs frequently, and you can hop on and off to see the things you’d like to see. It’s also handicap friendly. I have an Injury and can’t do too much walking and standing but it was doable. The changing of the guards is announced clearly and writhing time and the trains accommodate you so it’s not too much walking to see it. Everything is beautiful. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and very respectful. The new women’s extension is honorable. Coming from the daughter of a Purple Heart Vietnam Veteran daughter this brings me pride. My dad is also in a military cemetery in Suffolk and this was such an honor to just be there. I plan to go back soon and really get a chance to visit every part of it.
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