Private Tour
Veteran-Led Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Vigilance Tours is unlike other tours
With 25 years of working knowledge of Arlington National Cemetery, the Pentagon, Congress, and DC – Eric Hommel (Lt Col, USAF (retired)) is the only Cemetery guide who goes beyond the facts and figures and discusses the stories behind the facts and figures
The tour is interactive – by getting to know you, Eric strives to make the tour meaningful while maintaining the reverence of Arlington National Cemetery
In order to get to know each other, we limit the size of the tour group to a max of 12 visitors
No subject is totally off limits – Eric is happy to discuss most topics (history, politics, military decisions, treatment of veterans, etc.) defining those interred at Arlington National Cemetery
We will not rush you; the tour is scheduled for at least 3 hours, if you have less than 3 hours to visit the Cemetery we recommend shorter tours with other companies
Eric is the author of: THE LOSING GAME: HOW TO LOSE A WAR AND FAIL VETERANS (Amazon)
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
3 hour walking tour covering 3 miles
Small group tour not to exceed 12 guests
Not recommended for visitors unable to walk 3 miles in 3 hours
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Military Women's Memorial
The leading memorial and education center honoring the commitment, contributions and experiences of Servicewoman.
John F. Kennedy Grave Site
The gravesite of the 35th President of the United States
What‘s Included
All Fees and Taxes
Options
Veteran Discount
Veteran: Please bring a form of veteran identification to the tour.
Arlington National Cemetery Tours
Reviews
67 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great tour guide!
Eleni B,Apr 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This tour was amazing! I usually cant get into historical topics but Eric made it so interesting! We walked 3 miles.
Highly informative, interesting, and moving experience. Definitely recommend this tour.
Caroline L,Apr 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00My teenage son and I went on this tour, and we both recommend it. This tour covers not only historical information about how Arlington became a Nat'l Cemetery, but also the fascinating connections of historical figures like George Washington, Robert E. Lee, Lincoln, and the Kennedy family, as well as Arlington's connection to D.C. and current military policies and burials at Arlington. The day we went, we were able to witness a wreath-laying ceremony and the changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Guide for this tour has vast military experience and political knowledge. This combined with his deep respect for the fallen and interred at Arlington, and his care for the people he is guiding through the cemetery make this a top notch tour.
VERY informative &...
Amber K,Apr 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00VERY informative & amazing tour of the grounds. There was a number of interesting stories, details & “did you know?” that made the tour great. Highly recommend to others!
Fantastic experience
VANESSA C,Jan 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCE. This tour was one of the very best we have experienced. Eric is a brilliant and engaging historical story teller. We learnt so much not only about the Arlington National Cemetery and military snippets but also about the connections, relationships and stories of many significant individuals. Eric's military background provided a wealth of information and experiences which he shared to give a truly authentic tour.
The best tour in DC!! You...
Jillene W,Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The best tour in DC!! You cannot miss an opportunity to see Arlington with Eric - you will never forget it. He gives you an unprecedented look at the history and stories associated with Arlington. Absolutely wonderful experience!
Top Notch Tour
Jeffrey S,Oct 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We got way more than we ever expected from our time spent with Eric at Arlington. He imparted so much information that we would never have discovered on our own. Eric has an unparalleled background giving him a profound ability to share stories and facts about many aspects of the cemetery and the people laid to rest there. His engaging personality and desire to please us as to what we were wanting to experience from the tour made this a highlight of our time spent out East. We can't recommend this tour highly enough. If there was a 10 star rating, it would be a 10.
Veteran led tour of Arlington Cemetery
Tom L,Oct 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Exceptional, 5 stars. Eric was a wealth of knowledge, friendly and patient. This was not a timed tour. He gave us far more time that we expected... and it was well worth. Do not visit Arlington Cemetery without Eric. You won't be disappointed.
Informational, Emotional
Kim S,Oct 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was so informative! I’m no a history buff, I learned so much about people that died for my freedom. Emotional. Everyone should go! Our 3 1/2 hour tour was 5 hours! Perfect. He loves his job. Sharing with passion. Worth every penny, so glad we didn’t go on our own.
Exceptional & Excellent
nora o,Sep 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Eric is the best tour guide ever! So knowledgeable about Arlington Cemetery and the history behind it! Highly recommend!!!
The absolute best...
Crissy B,Sep 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The absolute best experience!!! Eric was amazing, so knowledgeable, patient and kind. It was our favorite tour while in DC and would highly recommend it. Thank you Eric for your service to our Country and sharing your knowledge and experience with us!
Related Experiences
Operated by Veteran-led Personalized Tours of Arlington National Cemetery