Arlington, Virginia stands apart as the only city that directly borders Washington, D.C. without being part of it, housing the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery. This proximity gives it a rare blend of federal significance and local identity, where historic military landmarks meet vibrant urban neighborhoods like Clarendon and Crystal City—now transforming into Amazon’s HQ2 hub.
Notable points about Arlington
- Arlington, Virginia stands apart for housing the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery, offering a solemn yet powerful reflection of American history just across the river from D.C.
- Unlike many U.S. cities, Arlington blends federal landmarks with vibrant neighborhoods like Clarendon and Ballston, creating a rare mix of national significance and modern urban lifestyle.
- Late spring (April–June) is the best time to visit for cherry blossoms, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds than its neighbor, Washington, D.C.
- Arlington leans mid-to-high on cost—lodging and dining can be pricey near Metro hubs like Rosslyn, but affordable options exist further out in Pentagon City and along Columbia Pike.
- Attend the solemn Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a moving experience that embodies local reverence and national pride.
- Explore the global eats along Columbia Pike, where family-run Ethiopian, Bolivian, and Thai spots offer unforgettable and affordable meals.
- With a robust Metro system and bike-friendly infrastructure, visitors can easily hop between Arlington and D.C. without needing a car.
- Skip the crowds and head to Bon Air Park's rose garden or explore the murals and indie cafes in the under-the-radar neighborhood of Cherrydale.
- Arlington is generally very safe, walkable, and English-speaking; locals are used to international visitors due to the city’s proximity to embassies and federal agencies.
- Watching sunset from the Marine Corps War Memorial with panoramic views of the National Mall is a surreal moment that leaves many saying, “This was the highlight of my trip.”