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DC Metro Arlington Cemetery Station Visitor Guide & Tips
Making your first trip to Arlington National Cemetery? Many visitors don't understand that they only need to walk to Arlington Cemetery Station from the Arlington Metro station, which is on the D.C. Metro line, to skip traffic, parking and long security lines. This guide covers all bases before you arrive to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, JFK's Grave, or the Changing of the Guard ceremony. It takes only an average of about 5 minutes to walk from here to the cemetery entrance.
Why Do Most Visitors Use the DC Metro Arlington Cemetery Station?
The Arlington Cemetery Station is not like many other Washington Metro stations but rather was built for one purpose: to provide an easy and fast way to get to Arlington National Cemetery.
Benefits include:
- No parking hassles in the downtown areas!
- Access to the Direct Blue Line.
- A short walk to the Welcome Center.
- Memorial area for easy access.
- Easy access from Washington, DC hotels
Many tourists find it easier to take the metro than drive.
How Close Is the Station to Arlington National Cemetery?
That is the query that is asked by almost all travelers.
The station is located directly next to Arlington National Cemetery and is only about a 5-minute walk from the Welcome Center entrance.
Walking Route
- Get off the Arlington Cemetery train station
- Go west on Memorial Avenue.
- You can reach the Welcome Center at the beginning of the trail.
- Pass through security screening
- Begin your visit
What Should First-Time Visitors Know Before Arriving?
Arlington National Cemetery is larger than most visitors realize.
The cemetery is hundreds of acres, and you will need to walk a lot to explore. For people who don't want to go long distances on foot, there are visitor trams and guided transportation.
Visitor Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring water during summer months
- Be on time for popular ceremonies
- Allow at least 2–4 hours for your visit
- Check weather conditions before arriving
What Are the Most Popular Attractions Near Arlington Cemetery Station?
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
One of the cemetery's most visited sites, famous for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
John F. Kennedy Gravesite
A major destination featuring the Eternal Flame memorial.
Arlington House
Historic home overlooking Washington, DC.
Memorial Amphitheater
Used for major national ceremonies and commemorations.
What Are Arlington Cemetery Station Hours?
This station is special in that it doesn't always have the same visitor type as other Metro stations.
Station Information
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Metro Line | Blue Line |
| Accessibility | Yes |
| Elevators | Available |
| Escalators | Available |
| Bike Racks | Available |
One unusual point: Arlington Cemetery Station has operating restrictions related to access to the cemetery and is one of the few stations with such restrictions in the Metro system.
Is There Parking at the DC Metro Arlington Cemetery Station?
The station does not have any station-operated parking. Visitor parking is typically not considered part of Metro parking, but a part of the cemetery facilities.
Parking Alternatives
| Option | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Cemetery Visitor Parking | Varies |
| Rosslyn Parking Garages | $10–$25 |
| Pentagon City Garages | $10–$30 |
Many come to Metro because they want to get away from parking charges and stop traffic.
Is Metro Better Than Driving to Arlington National Cemetery?
Yes, for many tourists.
Reasons include:
- Avoiding Washington-area traffic
- No parking search
- Direct access to the entrance
- Easy connections from downtown hotels
- No need to navigate unfamiliar roads
Public transportation is a popular way to get to the cemetery because it is served directly by Metro.
How Long Will It Take to Visit Arlington National Cemetery?
This is another user question that is asked frequently.
Recommended Visit Duration
| Visit Type | Time Needed |
|---|---|
| Quick Visit | 1–2 Hours |
| Standard Visit | 3–4 Hours |
| Full Exploration | 4–6 Hours |
The cemetery is very extensive, so time spent there can be half a day.
FAQs:
Q: Is Arlington Cemetery Station the closest Metro stop to Arlington National Cemetery?
Yes. It is the closest Metro station and is only a short walk from the cemetery entrance.
Q: Which Metro line serves Arlington Cemetery Station?
The Blue Line serves Arlington Cemetery Station.
Q: Can you walk to the Lincoln Memorial from Arlington Cemetery Station?
Yes. Many visitors walk across Memorial Bridge to reach the Lincoln Memorial area.
Q: Is parking available at Arlington Cemetery Station?
Metro-operated parking is not available at the station.
Q: How early should I arrive for the Changing of the Guard?
Arriving early is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, because ceremonies attract large crowds
