Freedom to Explore
With 1100 acres of parks and 75 miles of multi-use trails, there’s no better place to start exploring Arlington than through its great outdoors. And how better to do it than the old-fashioned way? With plenty of walkable neighbourhoods, getting your steps in has never been easier, or more rewarding. Arlington counts 175 parks and nature centres for you to work your way through, including the Mount Vernon Trail which winds alongside the Potomac River offering uninterrupted views of Washington, D.C.’s skyline and an iconic Insta backdrop. You can also drop by Theodore Roosevelt Island, a 91-acre wooded island sanctuary on the Potomac River. It’s no surprise that Arlington continues to be named the fittest city in the country. You name it, Arlington’s got it.
Real-Life Art
Once you’ve got a handle on Arlington’s natural beauty, why not turn your attention to some of its man-made gems, too? Arlington is one-of-one when it comes to art which, funnily enough, goes hand-in-hand with the whole nature walks thing. There are over 70 public artworks dotted throughout the city. On the pavement, down buildings, through metro stations, in courtyards – the more you look the more you’ll find. In fact, you’ll probably spot a few on your morning coffee run. These beauties were commissioned as part of the county’s capital improvements to show off community values and traditions. If you’re up for an artsy treasure hunt, take the Arlington Public Art Walking Tour. There’s a guide online outlining the places you can walk, ride, or drive to in the neighbourhood to see its best bits.
A Place in History
It wouldn’t be a trip to Arlington if you didn’t check out its most historic sites. There is a range of open-air memorials to commemorate America’s past, including the nation’s most famous burial ground, Arlington National Cemetery. This striking plot is America’s largest military burial ground, characterised by rolling green hills, centuries-old shrubbery, and rows of bone-white headstones. You can take a tour of the property – guided or not – and take in all the history Arlington has to offer. There’s also the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, Air Force Memorial, and Marine Corps War Memorial, all incredibly powerful sites you must visit when in Arlington.
With boundless open areas, lively art tours and beautiful historic sites, Arlington is an incredible spot to go off-grid and reconnect with nature. You won’t be disappointed.
