Arlington National Cemetery

Situated directly opposite the Lincoln Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery is the most famous military resting place in the United States. Containing the graves of over 400,000 courageous servicemen and women who lost their lives fighting in the American armed forces, this is a tranquil and reflective space to visit.To give you an idea of the scale of the operation, the cemetery is spread across an area that comprises 252 hectares and deals with a staggering thirty funerals a day, five days of the week.Most widely known as a military cemetery, this peaceful resting place is home to row upon row of small white headstones that stretch as far as the eye can see. Guarded loyally by miniature American flags, this is a sobering and memorable scene where the tragedy of war hangs heavy in the air.Before you explore the peaceful grounds, it’s a good idea to stop off at the visitor’s centre to pick up a map to guide you through the different sections. Alternatively, hop on a guided bus tour which will take you through the cemetery and all the way up to Arlington House. This former home of Confederate General Robert E. Lee is the highest point in the cemetery and offers unrivalled views across the city. Don’t leave this area without exploring the stunning Arlington Memorial Amphitheater. Make your way to the centre of its eastern steps to visit the Civil War Unknowns Monument which is dedicated to the unknown soldiers who died during that conflict.Visitors will be interested to know that this serene cemetery is also the final resting place of some of the most important political, sporting and academic figures in American history. Pay your respects to Irish-American President John Fitzgerald Kennedy, heavyweight boxer Joe Louis and novelist Mary Roberts Rinehart. Before you leave, make sure to visit the September 11 Memorial, the Pentagon Group Burial Marker and the Lockerbie Cairn.This is a sacred space so when visiting, please respect those who repose here and their families. While this might not have been the first place you thought of visiting in Washington DC, it is most certainly one you will never forget.