Arlington House Robert E. Lee Memorial
Historic Greek Revival mansion, former home of Robert E. Lee, offering stunning DC views and a poignant look at history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer school groups
Arlington House Robert E. Lee Memorial
Best Time
Fewer school groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Greek Revival mansion, former home of Robert E. Lee, offering stunning DC views and a poignant look at history.
"The best view of Washington, DC is from this location. And then there is the impressive structure itself."
🚶 Walk, Don't Trolley
Save money and enjoy the scenery by walking from the cemetery entrance. It's about a 15-minute walk.
🏛️ Free Admission
No admission ticket is required to visit Arlington House. Enjoy the history and views for free!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Views of DC
Hilltop overlooking Washington D.C.
Breathtaking vistas of the Lincoln Memorial, Capitol Building, and more. A truly advantageous overlooking view.
The Mansion Museum
Inside Arlington House
Explore the Greek Revival mansion, once home to Robert E. Lee, with original artifacts and informative exhibits.
Custis-Lee Gardens
Grounds of Arlington House
Stroll through the historic gardens, offering a peaceful contrast to the surrounding cemetery.
The Slave Quarters
Behind the main house
A poignant reminder of the lives of enslaved people who contributed to the estate's construction and upkeep.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Walk, Don't Trolley
Save money and enjoy the scenery by walking from the cemetery entrance. It's about a 15-minute walk.
🏛️ Free Admission
No admission ticket is required to visit Arlington House. Enjoy the history and views for free!
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Washington D.C. are a major highlight. Don't forget your camera!
🧐 Understand the History
The site offers a realistic view of Robert E. Lee's history, managed by the National Park Service.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Walk, Don't Trolley
Save money and enjoy the scenery by walking from the cemetery entrance. It's about a 15-minute walk.
🏛️ Free Admission
No admission ticket is required to visit Arlington House. Enjoy the history and views for free!
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Washington D.C. are a major highlight. Don't forget your camera!
🧐 Understand the History
The site offers a realistic view of Robert E. Lee's history, managed by the National Park Service.
🕰️ Check Hours
Hours can vary, especially around holidays. Always check the National Park Service website before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Arlington House for its stunning panoramic views of Washington D.C. and its well-preserved historical architecture. The insightful exhibits and the poignant history, including the lives of enslaved people, are frequently highlighted as meaningful aspects of the visit. While the house itself is a highlight, its location within the solemn Arlington National Cemetery adds to the overall reflective experience.
"A truly beautiful place to take a picture. I could just imagine how pristine and calming the view was when the area wasn't developed and the European settlers just arrived. A very advantageous overlooking view. The house itself is a museum and they tell a good enough story. It is just a 15 minute walk from the entrance place so unless you really want to pay ~$20 for the trolley ride (45min, 3 stops Kennedy Grave -> Tomb of Unknown Soldier -> Arlington House) then I suggest you can walk it instead.
Came on a Monday and there was a lot of people, especially school children on some sort of field trip."
Aaron Lecciones
"Arlington House is a beautiful and historic spot overlooking Washington, D.C. Once home to Robert E. Lee, it’s full of rich history and offers a thoughtful look at the past, including the lives of those who were enslaved there. The views are amazing, and the house is well-preserved with informative exhibits. A quiet, meaningful stop if you’re visiting Arlington National Cemetery. Recommend it!"
Maria Achilleia
"The best view of Washington, DC is from this location. And then there is the impressive structure itself. The slave quarters in the back of the building brings a little reminder of who actually did a lot - or most of the construction."
Barry M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Arlington House is located within Arlington National Cemetery. You can reach it by car, public transportation (Metro to Arlington Cemetery station), or by walking from the cemetery entrance. Consider the cemetery's trolley service if you prefer not to walk the entire distance.
Parking is available at Arlington National Cemetery, but it can be limited. It's often easier to use public transport or rideshare services. The house itself is a short walk from the main cemetery visitor center.
Yes, it's about a 15-minute walk from the main entrance of Arlington National Cemetery to Arlington House. The path is scenic and offers glimpses of the cemetery grounds.
Arlington National Cemetery offers a hop-on, hop-off trolley service that stops at key locations, including Arlington House. This can be a convenient option if you have mobility concerns or want to save time.
Many visitors combine a visit to Arlington House with exploring Arlington National Cemetery. Allow ample time to see both, and consider the trolley for efficient navigation within the vast cemetery grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial, is free. It is maintained by the National Park Service and open to the public without an entrance fee.
Operating hours for Arlington House can vary seasonally and may be affected by holidays or special events. It's best to check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, Arlington House is typically open on weekends, but it can be busier, especially with school groups. Weekday visits are often recommended for a more peaceful experience.
Arlington House aims to be accessible. Information regarding specific accessibility features, such as ramps or elevators, can be found on the National Park Service website or by contacting the site directly.
While you can do a self-guided tour of Arlington House, National Park Service rangers are often on-site to answer questions and provide historical context. Check with the visitor center upon arrival for any scheduled ranger programs.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Arlington House features a museum with period furniture, original paintings, and artifacts. You can also explore the grounds, including the gardens and the poignant slave quarters, and enjoy stunning views of Washington D.C.
Originally built by George Washington Parke Custis, it was the home of Confederate General Robert E. Lee and his wife Mary Anna Custis Lee. The Union Army occupied it during the Civil War, and it became part of Arlington National Cemetery.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Arlington National Cemetery Visitor Center and sometimes near Arlington House itself. It's advisable to use facilities at the visitor center before heading to the house.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most areas of the house, but it's always best to check for posted signs or ask a ranger for clarification.
The view from Arlington House is spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the Potomac River, and the Washington D.C. skyline. It's considered one of the best viewpoints in the area.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities are the panoramic views of Washington D.C. from the mansion's porch and grounds. The house itself, with its Greek Revival architecture, also makes for beautiful exterior shots. 
Drone usage is strictly prohibited within Arlington National Cemetery, including around Arlington House, due to security and respect for the solemn nature of the site.
While you can see parts of the cemetery from Arlington House, it's important to be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography of gravesites and focus on the historical house and the DC skyline.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for photographing both the house and the DC skyline. Early mornings can also be lovely, with fewer crowds and soft light.
Generally, non-flash photography is allowed inside, but always look for posted signs or ask a ranger. The focus is on preserving the historical artifacts and maintaining a respectful atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider using the Arlington National Cemetery trolley to make getting to the house easier, especially if you have younger children or strollers. While the history can be complex, focusing on the architecture, the views, and the stories of the people who lived there can make it a memorable stop. Be prepared for a lot of walking within the cemetery, so comfortable shoes are a must.
🏛️ History Buffs
Delve into the stories of the Custis and Lee families, understand the strategic importance of the location during the Civil War, and appreciate the architectural significance of the Greek Revival mansion. The views of the capital from the house also offer a unique perspective on the historical landscape of the region.
📸 Photographers
+1Capture the iconic landmarks like the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial bathed in the golden light of late afternoon, or the soft hues of early morning. The contrast between the historic house and the modern cityscape creates compelling compositions. Remember to be respectful of the cemetery grounds and any ongoing ceremonies when framing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Complex History of Arlington House
During the Civil War, the property was seized by Union forces. The decision to bury Union soldiers on the grounds, including in the mansion's front yard, was a deliberate act to make the estate uninhabitable for the Lee family, should they ever return. This act transformed the former Confederate general's home into a hallowed ground of national remembrance. The National Park Service now manages the site, presenting a narrative that acknowledges both the grandeur of the Custis-Lee family and the lives of the enslaved people who lived and worked there, offering a more comprehensive historical perspective.
Visitors can explore the main house, which serves as a museum with period furnishings and artifacts, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life. The grounds include the gardens and the stark reminder of the slave quarters, providing a more complete understanding of the estate's past. The strategic location atop the hill offers unparalleled views of Washington D.C., a constant reminder of the nation's capital and the historical events that unfolded.
Navigating Arlington National Cemetery
Visitors often use the cemetery's hop-on, hop-off trolley service to navigate the vast area efficiently. Key points of interest include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where the Changing of the Guard ceremony is a deeply moving experience, and the gravesites of notable figures like President John F. Kennedy and his family. Arlington House itself offers a unique historical perspective within this military memorial landscape.
When visiting, it's crucial to maintain a respectful demeanor. Silence is appreciated, and loud conversations or disruptive behavior are discouraged. Photography is generally permitted, but always be mindful of the solemnity of the surroundings. The cemetery's mission is to honor those who served, and visitors play a role in maintaining that respectful atmosphere.
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