Arlington Va Metro Map
Arlington, Virginia is a beautiful and historic city that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s history, enjoying outdoor adventures, or sampling the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Arlington. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions in Arlington
Arlington is home to many top-rated attractions that are must-see destinations for visitors. The Arlington National Cemetery is a solemn and moving tribute to the men and women who have served our country, while the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial offers a powerful and emotional reminder of the tragic events of September 11th. Other top attractions include the Arlington House, the Marine Corps War Memorial, and the Theodore Roosevelt Island Park.
Hidden Gems in Arlington
While the top attractions in Arlington are well-known, there are also many hidden gems that offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s unique culture and history. The Arlington Farmers’ Market is a great place to sample locally grown produce and handmade crafts, while the Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse offers a unique movie-watching experience with food and drinks served during the film. Other hidden gems include the Little Theatre of Alexandria and the Arlington Arts Center.
Food Scene in Arlington
Arlington offers a diverse and thriving food scene with many top-rated restaurants and cafes. The Don Tito is a popular spot for Mexican cuisine, while the Liberty Tavern is a great place to enjoy American fare. Other great restaurants include the Ambar Balkan Restaurant, the Green Pig Bistro, and the Northside Social.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Arlington
While Arlington can be an expensive city to visit, there are many ways to save money and enjoy all the city has to offer. Some budget-friendly tips include taking advantage of free events and activities, such as the Rosslyn Jazz Festival and the Arlington County Fair, using public transportation instead of renting a car, and eating at local food trucks and markets instead of expensive restaurants.
Outdoor Adventures in Arlington
Arlington is home to many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces that offer a wide range of activities for visitors. The Potomac Overlook Regional Park is a great place to hike and enjoy stunning views of the city, while the Four Mile Run Trail offers a scenic route for biking and jogging. Other outdoor adventures include kayaking on the Potomac River and exploring the Gulf Branch Nature Center.
Historical Landmarks in Arlington
Arlington is steeped in history and offers many opportunities to learn about the city’s unique past. The Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial, offers a glimpse into the life of one of the country’s most famous generals, while the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a moving tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country. Other historical landmarks include the Fort Myer Historic District and the Ball-Sellers House.
Family-Friendly Activities in Arlington
Arlington is a great place to visit with kids, with many family-friendly activities and attractions. The Children’s Science Center is a great place to learn about science and technology through hands-on exhibits, while the Arlington Planetarium offers a unique look at the stars and planets. Other family-friendly activities include the Upton Hill Regional Park and the Potomac Riverboat Company.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Arlington
If you are looking for something a little different to do in Arlington, there are many off-the-beaten-path experiences to enjoy. The Arlington Cemetery Tours offer a unique look at the history and beauty of this famous cemetery, while the Arlington Art Truck brings art to unexpected places throughout the city. Other off-the-beaten-path experiences include the Arlington Historical Museum and the Lee-Fendall House Museum.
Natural Wonders in Arlington
Arlington is home to many natural wonders that offer visitors a chance to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. The Potomac Heritage Trail offers a scenic route for hiking and biking, while the Theodore Roosevelt Island Park is a great place to enjoy nature and wildlife. Other natural wonders include the Gulf Branch Nature Center and the Long Branch Nature Center.
Vibrant Nightlife in Arlington
Arlington offers a vibrant nightlife scene with many top-rated bars, clubs, and music venues. The Clarendon Ballroom is a popular spot for dancing and live music, while the Galaxy Hut is a great place to enjoy a beer and a game of pool. Other great nightlife spots include the Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse and the Iota Club and Cafe.
Local Markets in Arlington
Arlington is home to many local markets that offer a unique shopping experience for visitors. The Arlington Farmers’ Market is a great place to sample locally grown produce and handmade crafts, while the Westover Farmers Market offers a wide range of fresh and organic produce. Other great markets include the Arlington Flea Market and the Crystal City Farmers’ Market.
Beaches and Mountains in Arlington
While Arlington is not known for its beaches and mountains, there are still many nearby destinations that offer a chance to enjoy these natural wonders. The Chesapeake Bay Beach is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, while the Shenandoah National Park offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Other great destinations include Great Falls Park and the James River.
Cultural Immersion in Arlington
Arlington is a diverse and multicultural city that offers many opportunities to immerse yourself in different cultures. The Arlington Arts Center is a great place to explore contemporary art from around the world, while the Arlington Cultural Affairs Division offers a wide range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Other great cultural destinations include the Signature Theatre and the Synetic Theater.
Art and Music Scene in Arlington
Arlington is home to many top-rated art galleries and music venues that offer a chance to explore the city’s vibrant cultural scene. The Artisphere is a great place to see contemporary art and live music, while the Iota Club and Cafe offers a unique combination of live music and great food. Other great art and music destinations include the Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse and the Signature Theatre.
Walking Tours in Arlington
Arlington offers many walking tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s unique history and culture on foot. The Arlington Cemetery Tours offer a chance to see the famous cemetery from a new perspective, while the Arlington Heritage Trail offers a self-guided tour of some of the city’s most historic sites. Other great walking tours include the Cherrydale Historic District and the Clarendon Walking Tour.
Architectural Marvels in Arlington
Arlington is home to many stunning examples of architecture, from historic homes and buildings to modern skyscrapers. The Stratford School is a great example of Colonial Revival architecture, while the Air Force Memorial is a stunning tribute to the men and women who have served in the Air Force. Other architectural marvels include the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Building and the Rosslyn Metro Station.
Historical Sites in Arlington
Arlington is steeped in history and offers many opportunities to learn about the city’s unique past. The Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial, offers a glimpse into the life of one of the country’s most famous generals, while the Fort Myer Historic District is a great place to see some of the city’s oldest buildings. Other historical sites include the Ball-Sellers House and the Abingdon Plantation.
Biking Routes in Arlington
Arlington offers many scenic routes for biking, from the Four Mile Run Trail to the Potomac Heritage Trail. The Washington and Old Dominion Trail is a popular route for biking and jogging, while the Arlington Loop Trail offers stunning views of the city and the Potomac River. Other great biking routes include the Mount Vernon Trail and the Custis Trail.
Wellness Retreats in Arlington
Arlington offers many wellness retreats and spas that offer a chance to relax and rejuvenate. The Salamander Resort and Spa is a luxurious destination that offers a wide range of treatments and services, while the Qi Spa offers a unique combination of traditional Chinese medicine and modern spa treatments. Other great wellness retreats include the Four Seasons Hotel and the Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City.
Adventure Sports in Arlington
If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, Arlington offers many opportunities for adventure sports. The Potomac River offers great opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, while the rock climbing gym at Earth Treks is a great place to challenge yourself. Other great adventure sports destinations include the Skydive Orange and the White Water Rafting Center.
With so much to see and do in Arlington, this travel guide offers just a small glimpse into all the city has to offer. No matter what your interests, there is something for everyone in this beautiful and historic city.