Mt. Vernon/Arlington Cemetery: Private Tour up to 10 Guests

A Closer Look at the Arlington & Mount Vernon Private Tour

Imagine spending a day exploring two of the most iconic sites connected to U.S. history — Arlington National Cemetery and George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate — all in the comfort of a private vehicle with a dedicated guide. For $1,075 per group, up to 10 people, this 6-hour experience offers a personalized way to explore the stories of heroes, presidents, and pivotal moments from America’s past. Whether you’re history buffs or first-time visitors eager to grasp the nation’s foundations, this tour makes those stories come alive in an intimate setting.

What we especially appreciate is how flexible and focused the experience is. First, you’ll witness the solemn Changing of the Guard at Arlington, an emotional and respectful ceremony that truly encapsulates the sacrifice of U.S. military personnel. Then, the visit to Kennedy’s gravesite, with its eternal flame, provides a poignant reminder of leadership and legacy. The second half of the day takes you to Mount Vernon, where you’ll step into the 18th-century world of George Washington’s home, exploring his mansion, gardens, and final resting place.

One thing to consider is that this is a full 6-hour commitment, which might be tight if you’re on a very packed schedule or prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, lunch isn’t included, though Mount Vernon has a food court where you can grab a bite amid stunning views of the Potomac River.

This tour suits those wanting a comprehensive, personalized look at American history with a focus on key sites, all in a comfortable, private setting. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate storytelling, detailed explanations, and a flexible itinerary tailored to your group.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guides ensure tailored insights and attention.
• Historic Sites Covered: Arlington Cemetery’s Tomb of the Unknowns, Kennedy Gravesite, Arlington House, and Mount Vernon mansion.
• Comfort & Convenience: Luxury SUV or Sprinter van, hotel pick-up and drop-off included.
• Time Management: Six hours packed with meaningful visits, including time for reflection.
• Educational and Emotional: Witness ceremonies and visit graves that evoke respect and understanding.
• No Lunch Included: Options available at Mount Vernon’s Food Court, but bring snacks if desired.

Exploring the Arlington & Mount Vernon Private Tour in Detail

Starting with Arlington National Cemetery

Your day begins with a timely pickup from your hotel, usually in downtown Washington, D.C., or nearby. The guide, who will be your storyteller and historian for the day, will lead you to Arlington, just across the river, where history is layered into every corner of the grounds.

One of the highlights here is witnessing the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. We loved the precision and solemnity of this ritual — it’s a profoundly respectful tribute that leaves an impression no matter how many times you see it. The ceremony runs regularly, and your guide might share stories about the guards’ duties and the tomb’s significance as a symbol of national sacrifice.

Next, you’ll visit the Kennedy Gravesite, marked by the eternal flame. It’s a quiet, reflective space where you can pay respects to President John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy, and their family. We appreciated how the guide shared not only facts but also stories about the Kennedys’ legacy and the cultural importance of this memorial in American history.

You’ll also explore Arlington House, also called the Robert E. Lee Memorial. Here, the guide will explain the house’s layered history — originally built by Robert E. Lee’s family but later used as a Union military headquarters during the Civil War. The views of Washington D.C. from Arlington are spectacular, and the grounds offer a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.

Transition to Mount Vernon

From Arlington, your private vehicle will take you along the scenic route to George Washington’s estate. Depending on traffic, the drive takes around 30-45 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the views of the Potomac River.

Upon arrival at Mount Vernon, you’ll step back in time. The estate’s mansion is the centerpiece — a beautifully restored Georgian-style home where Washington lived and worked. Your guide will take you through the rooms, sharing stories about Washington’s leadership, personal life, and farming innovations. We loved how the guide highlighted Washington’s multifaceted personality — a military leader, a farmer, and a visionary.

The gardens and grounds are equally fascinating — Washington’s passion for agriculture is evident in the carefully maintained fields and vegetable gardens. You might find it inspiring to see how he experimented with crop rotation and farming techniques, reflecting his forward-thinking approach.

The final stop is Washington’s Tomb, nestled in a peaceful outdoor setting. Both George and Martha Washington are buried here, and it’s a quiet space for reflection. We found this moment especially poignant, a fitting conclusion to a day spent exploring the lives of America’s founding figures.

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Lunch and Flexibility

While lunch isn’t included, Mount Vernon offers a Food Court with a variety of options, from sandwiches to salads, all with scenic views. If needed, you can bring snacks or plan ahead for a quick meal here. The flexible schedule allows time to enjoy your meal amidst the estate’s historic ambiance.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a luxury SUV for smaller groups or a Mercedes Sprinter van for larger parties ensures comfort and space. Bottled water is provided throughout, so you stay refreshed as you explore. We appreciated the smooth ride and the ability to chat comfortably with our guide rather than being packed into a larger bus with strangers.

Price and Value

At $1,075 for your entire group, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering the private, tailored experience. If you’re a group of 2, the cost breaks down to roughly $475 per person, which is quite reasonable for a full day of guided sightseeing, transportation, and special ceremonies. For larger groups, the per-person cost decreases, making it a budget-friendly option for families or friends traveling together.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts who want a personalized, in-depth look at two significant sites. It’s especially good for those who prefer a flexible schedule, want to avoid crowded group tours, or are traveling with family or friends who appreciate private, tailored experiences. The tour’s pace and focus make it suitable for those who enjoy storytelling, detailed explanations, and meaningful reflection.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to connect with American history beyond just reading plaques or listening to audio guides, this private tour offers a richer, more engaging experience. Traveling in comfort, with a knowledgeable guide who personalizes the journey, means you’ll get more than just a checklist of sights — you’ll get stories, insights, and moments of reflection.

It’s especially well-suited to small groups or families who want to make the most of a day exploring Arlington Cemetery’s poignant memorials and Mount Vernon’s historic charm. That said, keep in mind the 6-hour length and plan your day accordingly — this tour is best for those ready to enjoy history without feeling rushed.

If you’re seeking an authentic, meaningful, and comfortable way to experience these landmarks, this private tour promises to deliver. It’s a memorable way to deepen your understanding of the figures and events that shaped the nation, all while enjoying the convenience of private transportation and personalized attention.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
The tour is generally suitable for most age groups, but it’s best for those comfortable walking and standing for periods. Since it’s private, you can discuss any specific needs with the guide beforehand.

What transportation is used?
For 1-4 guests, a luxury SUV is provided for a more intimate experience. For 5-10 guests, a Mercedes Sprinter van offers ample space and comfort.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. However, Mount Vernon has a Food Court where you can purchase a meal during your visit.

Can I customize this tour?
While the itinerary is set to cover key highlights, the private nature of the tour allows some flexibility based on your interests or pace.

How long is the drive between Arlington and Mount Vernon?
The drive takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic, offering a scenic transition between the two sites.

What is the group size?
Up to 10 guests, making this a more personalized experience compared to large bus tours.

What’s the best time to book?
Check availability and book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure your preferred date and time.

Are there any restrictions I should know?
Smoking is not allowed, and the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Always confirm any specific needs with the tour provider.

This private tour combines the solemnity of Arlington with the grandeur of Mount Vernon, making it a rewarding and intimate way to understand the stories that have shaped the United States. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or revisiting familiar landmarks, this experience offers both education and reflection in a comfortably tailored package.

You can check availability for your dates here: