Things To Do
in Ballston
Ballston is a vibrant urban neighborhood located in Arlington, Virginia, just minutes from Washington, D.C. It is known for its mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The area is well-connected by public transportation, including the Ballston-MU Metro station, providing easy access to the rest of the region.
With a variety of dining options, shopping centers, and entertainment venues, Ballston offers a dynamic and lively atmosphere for residents and tourists to enjoy.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through Ballston's beautiful parks, enjoying the fresh air and morning sunshine. Don't forget to bring your camera for some delightful photos!
Visit local cafes for lunch to try some delicious bites. Afterward, discover nearby shops and boutiques for some unique finds.
Enjoy an outdoor movie screening in the park with your friends or family. Wrap up your day with a fun nightcap at a local bar.
Kick off your culinary adventure with a hearty breakfast at a popular diner. Sample some local specialties to fuel your day ahead!
Join a guided food tour to explore the best eats in Ballston. Indulge in a variety of cuisines, and meet fellow food enthusiasts.
Savor dinner at one of the top-rated restaurants in the area. Share your favorite food experiences with your companions over dessert.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient access to public transportation, including the Metro.
- A vibrant community with numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
- Proximity to Washington D.C., making it ideal for commuters.
- Strong emphasis on parks and green spaces, providing recreational opportunities.
- Diverse housing options, including modern apartments and townhouses.
- High cost of living compared to other regions.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours.
- Limited parking availability in some areas.
- Potential for noise due to the urban environment.
- Rapid development may lead to construction and associated disruptions.
Best Activities in Ballston
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic bike ride around the area, with designated bike lanes and paths leading to lovely parks.
Visit the nearby parks such as the Bon Air Park and Northside Park for picnics, jogging, and enjoying nature.
Join community yoga sessions held in local parks for a refreshing workout surrounded by nature.
Explore the local architecture and history of Ballston with guided walking tours offered throughout the year.
Visit the weekly farmers' market for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts, usually held in open-air venues.
Take advantage of the spacious fields and picnic areas for a family-friendly outing.
Use this scenic running path that follows the Four Mile Run creek, perfect for jogging or leisurely strolls.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ballston with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ballston
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of the skyline and is an excellent spot for capturing sunsets.
A scenic trail providing beautiful views of the surrounding nature and opportunities to photograph wildlife.
A picturesque intersection surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, perfect for landscape photography.
A charming park that provides a peaceful atmosphere and great angles for urban photography.
A vibrant cultural venue that features unique architecture and offers great spots for artistic shots.
A tranquil environment with beautiful flowers and trees, ideal for nature photography.
Food in Ballston
Ballston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Maryland delicacy, these crab cakes are a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Indulge in flavorful crab meat seasoned with Old Bay and served with tangy remoulade sauce. Visit The Liberty Tavern for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Savor the crispy, golden goodness of Southern fried chicken, a beloved dish that showcases comfort food at its finest. Head to Texas Jack's Barbecue for a delectable rendition of this Southern staple.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ballston better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Ballston Farmers Market for an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local street food offerings. Sample gourmet tacos, wood-fired pizzas, and farm-fresh salads from various vendors.
Stroll along Food Truck Row, where a diverse lineup of mobile eateries awaits. From Korean BBQ to gourmet grilled cheese, the food trucks offer a melting pot of flavors for food enthusiasts on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Research and understand the local customs and traditions of Ballston, as well as the broader Arlington area. Familiarize yourself with typical behaviors, greetings, and dining etiquette to avoid unintentional disrespect.
Always use polite language and gestures when interacting with others. Saying 'please', 'thank you', and maintaining a friendly demeanor can go a long way in showing respect and building rapport in social situations.
Be aware that Ballston is home to a diverse community. Show respect for different cultures, traditions, and opinions by being open-minded and inclusive in conversations, and avoiding stereotypes or generalizations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ballston with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ballston
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ballston, as in much of the United States, tipping is a customary practice to reward service workers for good service. It is common to tip between 15% to 20% of the total bill in restaurants. Other service industries, such as taxis, hair salons, and hotel staff, also typically expect tips, usually ranging from $1 to $5 or a percentage of the service cost.
Payment methods in Ballston are varied and convenient, including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Most establishments accept major credit cards, and contactless payments are increasingly common. Bill splitting and digital payment apps are also popular, facilitating easy transactions among friends and family.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ballston.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Ballston is marked by mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit. It's a great time for outdoor activities and events, and the community often hosts spring festivals.
Summer can get hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. This is the peak tourist season, featuring numerous outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and Fourth of July celebrations.
Fall offers cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage, with highs in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit. This season is perfect for walking, with various harvest festivals and activities available.
Winters in Ballston can be cold, with temperatures often falling below freezing. Expect occasional snow. This season is quieter, but you can enjoy holiday festivities, winter markets, and cozy indoor activities.
Ballston at Night
Hiking in Ballston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A serene park featuring wooded trails, streams, and picnic areas perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
A beautiful park offering a Nature Trail with scenic views and opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.
This nature center features trails winding through woodland and alongside streams, suitable for a variety of hiking experiences.
A park with walking trails that provide a peaceful setting and opportunities to explore urban nature.
A memorial site with a trail leading through the park, allowing for reflective walking and hiking in remembrance.
A multi-use trail that stretches along a historic stream, great for hiking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors.
Aiports
How to reach Ballston by plane.
Located approximately 26 miles west of Ballston, this major airport serves the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and offers numerous international flights.
Situated about 7 miles south of Ballston, this airport provides convenient access to the city and is a hub for domestic flights, with some international services.
Located roughly 35 miles northeast of Ballston, this airport serves both Baltimore and Washington, D.C., with a wide variety of international flights.
About 135 miles from Ballston, this airport is a significant hub in the northeastern United States, offering extensive domestic and international flight options.
Located approximately 100 miles south of Ballston, this airport offers flights to several international destinations as well as domestic services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Caucasian population in Ballston, representing a significant demographic segment.
Individuals of Hispanic or Latino descent, contributing to the cultural diversity.
This group includes people of Asian descent, reflecting the area's multicultural nature.
The Black or African American community, a vital part of the local population.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial backgrounds, representing a blend of cultural heritages.
Representing the Indigenous population, though this group is smaller.
A smaller demographic group, including individuals from Pacific Island regions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in Ballston, often played in local parks and schools, with many community leagues and events.
Soccer enjoys widespread popularity among children and adults alike, with numerous clubs and teams representing Ballston in various competitions.
Baseball is a cherished pastime in Ballston, with many youth leagues and local games held throughout the summer months.
Running is a common recreational activity in Ballston, with several running clubs and scenic trails available for residents and visitors.
Tennis is played at various courts within Ballston, offering both casual games and competitive leagues for players of all skill levels.
Swimming is a favored sport in Ballston, with several community pools and swimming programs catering to different age groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ballston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ballston's dining scene caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many establishments offering creative plant-based dishes. Check out True Food Kitchen for an extensive selection of wholesome vegetarian and vegan fare.
Navigating gluten-free dining is easy in Ballston, with numerous restaurants providing gluten-free options. Visit Pepita Cantina for a wide range of gluten-free Mexican dishes and refreshing cocktails.