How to Get to Arlington Cemetery from Union Station: A Complete Traveler’s Guide

Posted on by John Mathew

If you’re visiting Washington, D.C., and wondering how to get to Arlington Cemetery from Union Station, this detailed guide offers step-by-step directions, transportation options, and essential tips. Whether you’re honoring fallen heroes, exploring the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, or witnessing the Changing of the Guard, getting to Arlington National Cemetery is easier than you think.

🚇 Fastest Way to Get to Arlington Cemetery from Union Station

The most efficient and budget-friendly way to travel from Union Station to Arlington National Cemetery is by Metro (Washington Metrorail).

Step-by-Step Metro Directions:

  1. Start at Union Station (Red Line)
    Union Station is directly served by the Red Line of the Washington Metro.
  2. Transfer at Metro Center Station
    • Take the Red Line toward Shady Grove
    • Get off at Metro Center Station (3 stops)
    • Total time: ~5–7 minutes
  3. Switch to the Blue Line
    • At Metro Center, transfer to the Blue Line toward Franconia–Springfield
    • Ride 5 stops and get off at Arlington Cemetery Station
  4. Exit at Arlington Cemetery Station
    • The station exits directly to the grounds of Arlington National Cemetery.
    • Entire Metro journey: ~20–25 minutes
    • Fare: ~$2.50–$4.00 depending on peak/off-peak hours

✅ Best for: Tourists, solo travelers, and those on a budget

🚕 Taxi or Rideshare Options (Uber/Lyft)

If you’re short on time or carrying luggage, a taxi or rideshare is a convenient option.

Details:

  • Estimated Time: 10–15 minutes (depends on traffic)
  • Estimated Cost: $12–$20 (Uber/Lyft or regular taxi)
  • Pickup Location: Outside Union Station’s main entrance
  • Drop-off: Visitor’s Center Entrance at Arlington Cemetery

✅ Best for: Families, groups, or those with accessibility needs

🚌 Bus Routes from Union Station to Arlington Cemetery

While there’s no direct public bus from Union Station to Arlington Cemetery, you can still use a combination of buses and Metro.

Example Route:

  • Take a DC Circulator or WMATA Bus to a nearby Metro stop (like Farragut North or Foggy Bottom)
  • Transfer to Metro Blue Line toward Arlington Cemetery
  • Total time: ~35–45 minutes

✅ Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who prefer buses

🚶 Can You Walk from Union Station to Arlington Cemetery?

While technically walkable, the distance between Union Station and Arlington Cemetery is about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) and takes over an hour on foot. The route is scenic and passes landmarks like:

  • U.S. Capitol
  • National Mall
  • Lincoln Memorial
  • Arlington Memorial Bridge

🚶‍♂️ Best for: Hikers or history enthusiasts with time to spare

Arlington Cemetery Hours and Visitor Info

  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily)
  • Security Screening: Required before entry
  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (cooler weather, fewer crowds)
  • Nearby Landmarks: Pentagon, Iwo Jima Memorial, Arlington House

🗺️ Quick Travel Summary Table

Travel Method Duration Cost Accessibility Notes
Metro (Red + Blue Lines) 25–30 min $2.50–$4.00 Good Most popular
Taxi/Uber/Lyft 10–15 min $12–$20 Excellent Door-to-door
Bus + Metro 35–45 min $2.00–$3.00 Moderate Least direct
Walking 60–75 min Free Not ideal Scenic, but long

FAQs: How to Get to Arlington Cemetery from Union Station

❓ Can I take the Metro directly from Union Station to Arlington Cemetery?

No. You need to transfer from the Red Line to the Blue Line at Metro Center station.

❓ What’s the cheapest way to get there?

The Metro is the cheapest and most reliable public transport method, costing less than $4.

❓ Is Arlington Cemetery Station wheelchair accessible?

Yes. All Washington Metro stations, including Arlington Cemetery Station, are ADA-compliant.

❓ Is parking available at Arlington Cemetery?

Yes, there is paid parking near the visitor center, but it can fill quickly during peak hours.

Final Thoughts

When planning your visit to Arlington National Cemetery, choosing the right transportation from Union Station can enhance your D.C. experience. For most visitors, the Metro is the easiest, fastest, and most economical option. Whether you’re in Washington, D.C. for a day trip or a longer vacation, following this guide ensures a smooth, respectful, and memorable visit to this historic U.S. military cemetery.

📌 Reference Links:

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