The Complete Guide to Visiting Arlington, Virginia

Just minutes from our nation’s capital, the urban county of Arlington is a bustling hub for business and culture. 

A stay in Arlington offers easy access to the attractions of Washington D.C. However, you’ll find the county has its own charming neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and quality restaurants—not to mention a bounty of shopping opportunities and pristine views of the Potomac. 

THE BEST TIMES TO VISIT ARLINGTON

While there’s plenty of activity in Arlington no matter the season, spring is a highlight. 

As the National Cherry Blossom Festival draws immense crowds across the river, take in the blooms across the county. At Arlington National Cemetery’s Memorial Arboretum, more than 400 cherry trees blossom each year. You can also see colorful tulips at the Netherlands Carillon, a landmark marking the friendly relations of the Dutch and American people. 

Music lovers should make plans for a fall visit and catch the Rosslyn Jazz Fest, a free outdoor festival that brings soulful and lively tunes to Gateway Park. 

WHERE TO STAY

Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel: Convenience & Skyline Views $$$

Located just a mile from Reagan National Airport with a complimentary shuttle, you’ll find staying at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel a breeze. Get a jump start on sightseeing with easy access to the Pentagon, National Landing, and Arlington National Cemetery. Stay on the Club Level for access to a private lounge. 

Crystal Gateway Marriott: An Inviting Downtown Stay $$

Make the Crystal Gateway Marriott your home base for Arlington explorations. Close to Reagan National Airport and just across the street from the Crystal City Metro stop, the hotel provides the comforts you need and the access to get anywhere in the D.C. area. Check out the wellness rooms to add even more tranquility to your stay. 

The Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City: Luxury Accommodations in a Bustling Neighborhood $$$

When you stay at The Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City, you’ll be in the shopping nexus of Arlington. Close to the Fashion Centre and its bounty of stores, the four-star hotel has luxurious accommodations to make your visit seamless, elegant, and rejuvenating. 

Hilton Garden Inn Arlington: A Trendy Foodie’s Paradise $

With dozens of restaurants within walking distance, the Hilton Garden Inn Arlington makes for a convenient and delicious stay. On Saturdays, head to the nearby Courthouse Plaza for the farmers market. 

Sonesta Select Arlington Rosslyn: Your Key To Nature & History $$

You’ll find easy access to Arlington’s natural beauty and historic landmarks when you stay at the Sonesta Select Arlington Rosslyn. From the hotel, you’re a short trip from the Mount Vernon Trail, Fort Bennett Park and Palisades Trail, and Roosevelt Island Park. It’s also close to the US Marine Corps War Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. 

WHERE TO EAT

Water Park

Choose from a variety of eateries at this urban park just off the Mount Vernon Trail. Whether you’re craving the seafood flavor of Tiki Thai, a fried chicken sandwich from Queen Mother’s, or a slice from Crush Pizza + Wine, you’ll find something for every palate at Water Park. 

Quarter Market

Find tacos, noodle bowls, ice cream, and more at this indoor food hall in Ballston. 

Ambar Restaurant

This upscale Balkan favorite in Clarendon is known for its unlimited brunch, lunch, and dinner menus. 

Ruthie’s All-Day

A neighborhood staple, locals stop by Ruthie’s for breakfast counter service as well as lunch and dinner. The welcoming restaurant is located in a Mid-Century Modern building which was once home to a chocolate factory and ice cream shop. 

Spice Kraft Indian Bistro

This boutique Indian eatery offers classic and modern dishes with a creative cocktail menu. 

The Salt Line

Enjoy a taste of the Chesapeake Bay in Northern Virginia at this raw bar in Ballston. 

Lyon Hall

Indulge in French and German cuisine at this Clarendon brasserie with a selection of meaty entrees, freshly baked breads, and a selective wine list. 

Taco Bamba

This Falls Church-born regional chain from Chef Victor Albiou lets each outpost shine with unique taco creations tailored to the neighborhood. There are two locations in Arlington—Ballston and Shirlington. 

Freddie’s Beach Bar

Enjoy brunch or dinner and drinks at this LGBTQ+ restaurant and bar—check the calendar for bingo, karaoke, piano nights, and lively drag shows. 

Still hungry? Find more places to eat in Arlington and nearby Alexandria. 

TOP ATTRACTIONS & LANDMARKS

Arlington National Cemetery

The 639-acre Arlington National Cemetery was established in 1864 and is the final resting place of more than 400,000 people, including President John F. Kennedy and Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall. It is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and several other memorials. It is free and open to the public every day. 

National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial

Located near the site of the attack on the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, this memorial honors the lives and memory of the victims of the attack. Each person has a bench dedicated in their honor, prompting visitors to reflect and find peace and healing. 

U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial

You might recognize this memorial, based on the iconic image of the second flag-raising on Iwo Jima in 1945. Dedicated in 1954, the memorial honors all Marines who have given their lives to their country since 1775. While you visit, you’ll notice a panorama of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Capitol just across the river. 

Roosevelt Island Park

What was once neglected farmland is now Theodore Roosevelt Island, a memorial to the outdoorsman President that he likely would have loved to explore. Walk or bike through miles of forested trails—you’ll find the entrance to the park as you travel northbound on the George Washington Memorial Parkway. 

Gravelly Point

Just off the George Washington Memorial Parkway is Gravelly Point, a riverside park where runners, bikers, boaters, and relaxers are known to coalesce. Bring a picnic lunch to watch planes take off and land at nearby Reagan National Airport. 

Netherlands Carillon

This landmark celebrates the friendly relations between the Dutch and American people. It began as an expression of gratitude for American aid sent to the Netherlands during and after World War II. It underwent a renovation in 2022 and now has 53 bells. They chime each day every 15 minutes between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Stop by in the spring to see blooming tulips around its base. 

Queen City

Before the construction of the Pentagon in the 1940s, the area was home to a thriving African American neighborhood called Queen City. Many of the residents were descendants of enslaved people who had gained their freedom during the Civil War. Queen City was razed to accommodate the surrounding infrastructure that the largest office building in America demanded. A historical marker is on its way, but there is also an artistic tribute at Metropolitan Park. 

Washington and Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park

Trace the former Washington & Old Dominion Railbed as you explore this paved trail, often called the “skinniest park in Virginia.” The trail starts in Shirlington but will take you 45 miles all the way to Purcellville.

Potomac Overlook Regional Park

Take in 67 acres of native flora and fauna, as well as miles of trails and gardens, at this Arlington park. Families with kids will appreciate the environmental education opportunities around the park—plus, you can download coloring pages of the park’s popular residents before or after your visit. 

SHOPPING & SOUVENIRS

Fashion Centre at Pentagon City

A world-class mall destination, the Fashion Centre will satisfy all your shopping needs. Major brands, trendy outlets, and dozens of eateries have a home at this 140-store mall. 

Ballston Quarter

Browse offerings, dine at the extensive food hall, treat yourself to a manicure, or even see a movie at this lively, indoor-outdoor space. 

The Crossing Clarendon

Clarendon Boulevard is a shopping and dining hotspot, hosting everything from major stores to local shops and restaurants of various international flavors. Make the Crossing your base camp to stock up on quality products, find a souvenir, and grab lunch. 

The Village at Shirlington

For a small(er) town vibe in an urban environment, locals know to head to Shirlington. Walk down tree-lined streets, window shop, and discover dozens of unique stores.  

FRESHFARM Arlington Market

This farmers market has been providing Arlington locals with fresh produce and artisan goods since 1979. It’s open year-round on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until noon—find it in the Courthouse Plaza off Clarendon Boulevard. 

NIGHTLIFE & ENTERTAINMENT

Bubbles at Ms. Peacock’s Champagne Lounge

Sit back after a day of sightseeing at this elegant salon. Cheers with some bubbly at an intimate table, take a seat at the pink bar, or enjoy small plates on the patio. 

Underground Hideaway Salt Speakeasy

Savor a cocktail of bold and timeless flavors from this underground speakeasy, which you’ll find nestled in the space under Open Road in Rosslyn. 

Funky Tunes and Vegan Eat at Galaxy Hut

Fill your belly from the all-vegan, all-delicious menu, grab a drink, and catch a show on select Sunday evenings. 

Keep the Party Local at Westover Market & Beer Garden

Grab dinner, drinks, and a seat in the beer garden and you’ll likely see live music while you come down from the day’s adventure. The garden stays open until at least midnight, 365 days a year. 

All-Weather Fun at Ragtime

The covered patio is the standout at this casual bar with drinks, bites, and live tunes. 

Dance the Night Away at The Renegade

Get ready to rock at this restaurant and club, where bands play each weekend and line dancing and Latin nights make special appearances. 

MedStar Capitals Iceplex Hockey and Skating

Watch the Washington Capitals in action at an open-to-the-public practice or skate where the pros do by signing up for your turn on the ice. 

ANNUAL FESTIVALS

National Cherry Blossom Festival

When: March 20-April 13, 2025

Where: Multiple locations around D.C./Northern Virginia

Although the National Cherry Blossom Festival is concentrated at the Tidal Basin in the District, the whole area blooms. Avoid the crowds and take part in Arlington’s festivities, which include live music and art events. 

Quarterfest Crawl

When: May

Where: Ballston neighborhood 

Sample the best of Arlington’s diverse culinary scene at this food and drink festival. Enjoy musical performances, join the official restaurant crawl, and get a drink at the pop-up street pub. 

Columbia Pike Blues Festival

When: June 14, 2025

Where: South Walter Reed Drive from Columbia Pike to 9th Street South 

They call it “Arlington’s Best Block Party” for good reason—this fest brings together talented musicians playing blues, jazz, bluegrass, and funk, as well as delicious food, talented artisans, art exhibits, and family-friendly fun. 

Arlington County Fair

When: August 13-17, 2025

Where: Thomas Jefferson Community Center

This classic county celebration is actually one of the largest free events on the East Coast, drawing tens of thousands to Arlington annually. Come for fun including live music, local food and drinks, pie-eating contests, goat yoga, and kids activities. 

Rosslyn Jazz Fest

When: September

Where: Gateway Park

Soulful, lively, and groovy tunes can all be expected at the Rosslyn Jazz Fest, a free Arlington party that’s been held for over three decades. The event also includes good trucks, yard games, and family-friendly fare. 

JUST DOWN THE ROAD…

…Towns to Explore

Alexandria | Right down the road from Arlington is Alexandria, a historic city known for its dining, shopping, and lively Old Town neighborhood. Whether you’re looking to peruse antique shops, explore local art at the Torpedo Factory, catch a show at the Birchmere Music Hall, or dine on the waterfront, Alexandria has a wealth of sites to explore. 

Falls Church | Known as “The Little City,” Falls Church is ideal for a vibrant and approachable getaway. You’ll find walkable neighborhoods and plenty of tasty restaurants on your journey. Stop by the Eden Center for Vietnamese eats and shopping or visit historic attractions like the Cherry Hill Farmhouse. 

…Noteworthy Attractions

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts | Make sure to check the schedule for this performing arts venue before or during your Northern Virginia vacation. From touring artists across genres to music festivals and opera residencies, this indoor and outdoor venue has something for everyone. 

Great Falls Park | You might find it hard to believe that this 800-acre park with cascading waterfalls is only 15 miles from D.C., but it’s true. The park sees the Potomac River pick up speed and flow through Mather Gorge, resulting in beautiful views and bountiful opportunities for recreation. 

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens | Explore 95 acres of greenery and blooms in Vienna when you purchase admission to the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. Highlights include the Butterfly Garden, Experimental Meadow, and Virginia Native Tree Trail. Don’t miss art shows at the Visitor Center and the gift shop, which features local art and plants. 

…Learn Something New

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center | An annex of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly has an expansive collection of aviation and space artifacts. Visitors can see the space shuttle Discovery, a Blackbird SR-71, and a Concorde, plus thousands of other items from the collection. Admission is free; parking is $15. 

George Washington’s Mount Vernon | The home of our nation’s first president is just a thirty minute drive from Arlington. Once there, take a tour and learn about the people, both free and enslaved, who lived on the estate. You can also examine the history of American spirits at George Washington’s Distillery, reconstructed at the site and open to visitors seasonally on the weekends.

…Keep Shopping

Eden Center | You’ll find more than 100 stores at this Falls Church strip mall, known as the largest Vietnamese commercial center on the East Coast. Find restaurants, markets, and artisan shops, open daily. 

Tysons Corner Center | You’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for at this massive mall. Bonus: If you visit during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, you’ll find Tysons in bloom during the Blossom Bash. 

Mosaic District | This 31-acre mixed-use development brings premier dining, shopping, and entertainment to nearby Fairfax. For film buffs, don’t miss a screening at the Angelika at Mosaic, a sister arthouse theater of the legendary Angelika Film Center in New York City. 

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with your family, a Virginia vacation’s got all that you love, all in one place. Use this guide to Arlington to help you start planning your VA vacation today!