Things To Do
in Arlington
Arlington is a vibrant city located in the state of Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington D.C. It is known for being the home of the Pentagon, the headquarters of the Department of Defense. Arlington features a rich history, with notable sites such as Arlington National Cemetery, where many veterans and historical figures are buried.
The city also offers a variety of cultural attractions, green spaces, and diverse dining options for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Arlington National Cemetery, where you can see the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It's an inspiring and moving experience that sets the tone for the day.
Head over to the United States Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as Iwo Jima Memorial, to appreciate the significance of this iconic monument. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the surrounding park as you take in the views.
Wrap up your day with a scenic walk along the Potomac River at the Theodore Roosevelt Island. Watch the sunset over the water and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Spend your morning exploring the beautiful trails of the Arlington House and surrounding gardens. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the natural beauty and historical significance of the area.
Visit the nearby Lubber Run Park for a relaxed afternoon. Enjoy the nature trails and perhaps have a small picnic amidst the trees.
Conclude your day with a visit to the Ballston Quarter. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this urban space.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Washington D.C., providing easy access to federal job opportunities and cultural attractions.
- Excellent public transportation options, including Metro and bus services.
- High quality of life with a variety of parks, recreational facilities, and community events.
- Diverse population and vibrant cultural scene, including restaurants, theaters, and festivals.
- Strong public schools and educational opportunities.
- High cost of living, particularly housing prices and rental rates.
- Traffic congestion, especially during rush hour due to its location near D.C.
- High rate of competition for jobs, given the area's desirability.
- Limited space for expansion, leading to smaller living accommodations.
- Inconsistent weather patterns with hot summers and cold winters.
Best Activities in Arlington
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Pay your respects at the final resting place of many of America's military veterans.
Explore this peaceful natural sanctuary with walking trails and a memorial to the 26th President of the United States.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride or walk along this trail that runs along the Potomac River and offers stunning views of the Washington, D.C. skyline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Arlington with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Arlington
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views and photo opportunities of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Changing of the Guard, and the surrounding memorials and monuments.
Provides panoramic views of Arlington, the Potomac River, and the Washington, D.C. skyline, offering great photo opportunities.
Offers a scenic location with views of the Washington, D.C. skyline, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Arlington National Cemetery.
Food in Arlington
Arlington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty consisting of a grilled or smoked half-pork, half-beef sausage, often served in a hot dog bun with chili, onions, and mustard. Must-try at Ben's Chili Bowl.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught blue crabs steamed and seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, a quintessential Chesapeake Bay delight. Best enjoyed at The Quarterdeck Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Arlington better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant open-air market offering fresh produce, artisanal bread, local cheeses, and ready-to-eat snacks. Don't miss the savory empanadas and ethnic street food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Arlington residents appreciate a reasonable amount of personal space and it's important to be mindful of this when interacting with others.
Using titles such as Mr., Ms., or Dr. followed by the person's last name is customary in Arlington as a sign of respect.
Being on time for appointments, meetings, or social gatherings is considered respectful in Arlington's culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Arlington with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Arlington
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Arlington, United States, especially in restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing and taxi rides. The standard tipping amount is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Arlington, United States is commonly done using credit or debit cards, although cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are increasingly popular. Many businesses also accept digital wallet payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Arlington.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Arlington is during spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant. Expect crowded tourist attractions and higher accommodation rates during this time.
Fall is another great time to visit Arlington, with cooler temperatures and colorful foliage. Expect smaller crowds and more affordable accommodation options compared to spring and summer.
Arlington at Night
Hiking in Arlington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park with several trails, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
Features wooded trails, picnic areas, and a mini-golf course, perfect for a day outdoors.
A peaceful park with trails that wind through forests and streams, great for hiking and exploring.
Offers nature trails and stunning views of the Potomac River, ideal for a leisurely hike.
A popular spot for hikers with dogs, featuring trails and open spaces to explore.
An island park with rustic trails surrounded by the Potomac, perfect for a nature hike.
A scenic paved trail that runs along the Potomac River, excellent for walking, biking, and hiking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Arlington through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Arlington by plane.
Located about 20 miles northwest of Arlington, DFW is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States, serving as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated approximately 25 miles northeast of Arlington, Love Field primarily serves domestic flights and is a hub for Southwest Airlines.
Located around 18 miles north of Arlington, Alliance is a major cargo hub that also accommodates passenger services, focusing mainly on charter and private flights.
Approximately 250 miles southeast of Arlington, IAH in Houston is a major international gateway providing a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Located about 270 miles southwest of Arlington, SAT serves a variety of domestic and international destinations, making it a significant airport in Texas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest racial group in Arlington, typically comprising a significant percentage of the population.
A growing demographic group, encompassing a diverse range of national origins and cultural backgrounds.
A prominent racial group in Arlington, with a rich cultural heritage and community presence.
Includes individuals from various Asian countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Arlington.
Represents individuals who identify with two or more racial backgrounds, reflecting the increasing diversity.
A smaller demographic group, representing the indigenous heritage within the area.
An even smaller group, including individuals from Pacific Island nations, adding to the community's diversity.
The Soul of Arlington
Discover the essence of Arlington through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Arlington is home to the Texas Rangers, a Major League Baseball team, making baseball a popular sport in the area.
High school football is highly followed, and the Dallas Cowboys play in nearby Arlington, contributing to the popularity of the sport.
Basketball has a strong following, with local schools and college teams actively participating in competitions.
Soccer has gained popularity, especially with the presence of youth leagues and local clubs.
The area supports ice hockey with local teams and leagues, including the Texas Tornado junior hockey team.
The Texas Motor Speedway located nearby hosts various motorsport events, making it a popular sport for fans.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arlington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Arlington boasts a variety of eateries with dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, ensuring those with plant-based diets can easily find satisfying options. Standout choices include Sunflower Vegetarian Restaurant and True Food Kitchen.
Many dining establishments in Arlington provide gluten-free menus or are accommodating to gluten-free dietary needs. From gluten-free pizzas at Fire Works Pizza to the gluten-free offerings at Green Pig Bistro, there are excellent choices for those with gluten sensitivities.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Arlington with these cultural adventures.