Just across the Potomac from Washington D.C., Arlington, Virginia packs a serious punch for its size. This isn’t just some sleepy suburb – it’s where history buffs, foodies, and outdoor lovers all find their happy place.
With its killer skyline views, world-class museums, and neighborhoods bursting with character, Arlington might just steal your heart before you even hit the District.
Think you know everything there is to do in the DC area? Think again. We’re serving up the ultimate list of must-do Arlington activities – from secret hiking trails to the best damn brunch spots this side of the Potomac.
Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor wanting more than just the National Mall, this is your Arlington playbook.
1. Pay Your Respects at Arlington National Cemetery
Let’s start with the obvious – but don’t you dare call it boring. Arlington National Cemetery isn’t just a collection of headstones; it’s 639 acres of living American history that’ll give you chills.
Watching the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (every hour October-March, every half hour April-September) is one of those rare experiences that stays with you forever.
Time your visit right and you might catch a full-honors military funeral – a powerful reminder of what this place truly represents.
Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes – those rolling hills are no joke, and you’ll want to visit the JFK Eternal Flame and Arlington House while you’re here.
2. Get Your Nature Fix Along the Mount Vernon Trail
Locals know the Mount Vernon Trail is Arlington’s not-so-secret weapon. This 18-mile paved path follows the Potomac from Theodore Roosevelt Island all the way to George Washington’s estate (hence the name).
The best stretch for visitors runs from Rosslyn to Gravelly Point – where you can picnic while planes roar overhead on their way to Reagan National.
Rent a bike from BikeArlington (they’ve got stations all over) and make a day of it.
The views of the DC skyline? Straight-up unbeatable, especially at golden hour. Just watch out for serious cyclists – they mean business on this trail.
3. Go Museum Hopping in Rosslyn
Who says you need to cross the river for culture? The DEA Museum (yes, the Drug Enforcement Administration) offers fascinating exhibits on the history of drug enforcement – way more interesting than it sounds.
Then there’s the Air Force Memorial, where three stainless steel spires soar 270 feet with panoramic views that’ll make your Instagram pop.
But the real hidden gem? The Arlington Historical Museum in a 19th-century schoolhouse.
It’s small but packed with quirky local artifacts that tell the real story of this county. Best part? Most Arlington museums are free – take that, DC!
4. Stuff Your Face in Clarendon
Clarendon’s food scene could go toe-to-toe with any DC neighborhood. Start your day at Northside Social with their life-changing almond croissants, then come back later for wood-fired pizzas at Liberty Tavern.
Craving something global? TNR Cafe does Vietnamese right, while Ravi Kabob serves Afghan flavors that’ll have you licking the plate.
Vegetarians, rejoice – Sunflower has been dishing out insane vegan Vietnamese since before plant-based was cool.
Pro tip: Hit Clarendon Ballroom’s rooftop for drinks with a view (just don’t mention the alcohol – we know the rules).
5. Channel Your Inner Spy at the Planetarium
The David M. Brown Planetarium (yes, named for the Arlington-born astronaut) is one of those perfect rainy-day activities.
Their weekend public shows will have you ooh-ing and aah-ing at the cosmos, while the annual Astronomy Festival brings out telescopes for some serious stargazing.
Little known fact: This place was almost shuttered in 2013 – but locals fought to save it. Now that’s the Arlington spirit!
6. Shop Local at the Arlington Farmers Market
Running every Saturday in Courthouse since 1979 (that’s older than most of its shoppers), the Arlington Farmers Market is where the county’s foodie cred really shines.
From heirloom tomatoes to fresh-baked sourdough, this isn’t your average produce stand.
Don’t miss Chesapeake Bay Seafood for crabs that taste like summer, or Mozzeria for deaf-owned wood-fired pizzas that’ll ruin Domino’s for you forever. Come hungry – the samples alone could make a meal.
7. Hike the Billy Goat Trail (Yes, It’s in Arlington Too!)
Most people think the Billy Goat Trail is only in Maryland, but surprise – Section C starts right in Arlington at the Potomac Overlook Regional Park.
This 1.7-mile loop serves up rock scrambles, river views, and enough wildlife sightings to feel like you’ve escaped the city completely.
Just watch your step – those rocks get slippery after rain. And whatever you do, don’t skip the overlook at the end – it’s the perfect spot to catch your breath and snap that “I-hiked-Arlington” selfie.
8. Catch a Show at Signature Theatre
Broadway it ain’t, and thank goodness for that. The Signature Theatre in Shirlington Village specializes in bold, intimate productions that regularly snag Helen Hayes Awards (that’s DC’s Tony equivalent).
Their Stephen Sondheim productions are legendary – the man himself used to drop by.
Even if musicals aren’t your thing, the building itself is worth seeing – all sleek angles and glass, like a spaceship landed in suburban Virginia. Matinee tickets can be surprisingly affordable if you plan ahead.
9. Kayak the Potomac
Forget walking – the best views of DC come from the water. Key Bridge Boathouse rents kayaks and stand-up paddleboards by the hour, perfect for dodging crew teams while you pretend you’re in a Wes Anderson movie.
First-timers should stick to the Georgetown Channel, where the water’s calm and the people-watching is prime.
Just remember: The Potomac may look gentle, but she’s got currents – stay between the buoys unless you’re feeling adventurous.
10. Explore Theodore Roosevelt Island
This 91-acre wilderness memorial in the middle of the Potomac is Arlington’s best-kept secret.
The 17-foot bronze Teddy greets you at the center, surrounded by trails that feel miles from civilization (despite being minutes from Rosslyn).
The swamp trail is perfect for birders, while the upland forest gives you that classic Virginia woodland vibe. Pro tip: Come in April when the bluebells bloom – it’s like walking through a fairy tale.
11. Bowl Like a Local at Bowl America
Bowl America Shirlington is where Arlington comes to unwind. This ain’t your hipster boutique bowling alley – it’s gloriously old-school, with cheap beers (oops, scratch that), greasy fries, and that satisfying clatter of pins.
Tuesday nights mean discount games, while weekends bring out the league bowlers who take this stuff way too seriously. Just try not to laugh when your ball ends up in the gutter – again.
12. Watch the Sunset at Gravelly Point
Here’s how locals end a perfect Arlington day: Gravelly Point Park, where planes taking off from Reagan National roar so close overhead you’ll swear you could touch them.
Bring a blanket, some takeout from District Taco, and watch the sun dip behind the Washington Monument across the river.
It’s equal parts peaceful and pulse-pounding – much like Arlington itself.
Final Thoughts
From heart-pounding outdoor adventures to food that’ll make you cancel your DC reservations, Arlington, Virginia proves you don’t need to cross the river for an unforgettable experience.
This county blends small-town charm with big-city energy in a way that keeps both visitors and locals coming back for more.
So what are you waiting for? Lace up those walking shoes and start exploring Arlington today – just don’t blame us when you start browsing Zillow for local apartments!