While our tours run during the festival dates, the Arlington National Cemetery tour offers a distinct, more peaceful experience focused on the history of the cemetery and the beauty of its specific landscape, away from the heavy festival foot traffic.
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Where the Traditions of History and Nature Meet in Quiet Reflection
Experience a more meaningful perspective of the cherry blossom season with a curated tour of Arlington National Cemetery during the spring bloom.
Each spring, Washington, D.C., is painted in pink and white blooms, but the most profound way to experience this season is away from the crowds. At Arlington National Cemetery, the blossoms serve as a serene backdrop to over 160 years of American history. Here, the beauty of nature honors the bravery of those laid to rest, offering a peaceful space for reflection that is unique to these hallowed grounds.
Our guided tours allow you to experience the full scale of the cemetery’s rolling hills and historic monuments without the fear of missing a highlight on foot. With comfortable seating and expert narration, you’ll discover the significance of our landscape and the stories of the heroes it protects.
Join us this season for a journey that is as educational as it is beautiful.
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The History of the ANC Trees
The Living Memorials of Arlington
While many visitors associate the cherry blossoms only with the Tidal Basin, Arlington National Cemetery is home to several varieties of these historic trees, each adding to the cemetery’s “arboretum” status.
• The Okame Cherry: Known for their deep pink hues, these are often the first to bloom in early March, signaling the start of the season near the Ord and Weitzel gate.
• The Yoshino and Kwanzan: Scattered throughout the 639 acres, these trees were planted to enhance the “rural cemetery” aesthetic, providing a canopy of peace for grieving families and visitors alike.
• A Symbol of Friendship: Much like the famous trees surrounding the monuments, the blossoms at Arlington represent a cycle of renewal and the enduring beauty of life, serving as a silent tribute to the service members honored here.
F.A.Q.
Arlington National Cemetery spans over 600 acres with more than 3 miles of paved loop. Our guided tours provide the most efficient and comfortable way to see all the major landmarks and the best blossom clusters while listening to a live professional historian.
Peak bloom typically occurs between late March and early April. However, because we have several varieties of trees, including the early-blooming Okame, there is beauty to be found throughout the entire month of March.
Tours depart regularly from the Welcome Center. We recommend booking in advance during the cherry blossom season, as seats fill up quickly during peak bloom.