Tomb Of Unknown Soldier Reopens At Arlington National Cemetery

ARLINGTON, VA — Arlington National Cemetery reopened the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier plaza to limited access by visitors Tuesday, as part of a gradual reopening under improved COVID-19 conditions, according to a release.

The reopening is seen as an important element to the yearlong centennial celebration of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which will culminate on Veterans Day.

Due to COVID-19 restorations, the tomb has been closed to the public and to ongoing preservation for the last 11 months. Cemetery officials anticipate full access to the tomb will return as COVID-19 conditions continue to improve.

Visitors may now view the changing of the guard and pay their respects to Unknowns from the plaza stairs. Only 150 visitors will be allowed on the plaza stairs at a time to ensure proper social distancing. All visitors are required to wear face coverings and practice safe social distancing. Visitors will be able to exit on the north side of the amphitheater.

Under current restrictions, large groups and bus tours are prohibited from accessing the cemetery. In addition, exhibits in the Memorial Amphitheater Display Room and Welcome Center are closed to the public. Public wreath ceremonies at the tomb will remain closed until health conditions improve.

The public can view the cemetery virtually via the ANC Education Program.