Explore Arlington, Virginia, a city rich in history and modern attractions. From the solemn Arlington National Cemetery to the vibrant Fashion Center at Pentagon City, discover the top 10 things to do that blend remembrance with contemporary life.
There’s a place just across the river from the nation’s capital where stories of bravery, innovation, and remembrance echo through every neighborhood. Arlington, Virginia, blends solemn history with vibrant modern life. Here are the top 10 things to do in this remarkable city.
10. Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most sacred places in the United States, honoring over 400,000 service members, veterans, and their families. This land once belonged to the family of Confederate General Robert E. Lee before being taken over during the Civil War. As you walk through the endless rows of white markers, the sense of history and sacrifice is unforgettable.
9. Marine Corps War Memorial
Often called the Iwo Jima Memorial, this stunning sculpture depicts the iconic flag raising during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Inspired by a photograph taken by Joe Rosenthal, which became one of the most famous images of World War II, visiting this memorial at sunrise or sunset offers a powerful and photogenic experience.
8. Pentagon Memorial
The Pentagon Memorial honors the 184 lives lost during the September 11th attacks. Each illuminated bench is dedicated to a specific individual, arranged by age and orientation depending on whether they were in the Pentagon or aboard Flight 77. This peaceful yet emotional place serves as a site for reflection.
7. Air Force Memorial
The Air Force Memorial features three towering spires that soar into the sky, symbolizing the Air Force’s core values and the bomb burst maneuver. The tallest spire reaches over 270 feet, providing incredible views overlooking Washington, D.C. This site is not only a tribute but also a stunning vantage point.
6. Theodore Roosevelt Island
Theodore Roosevelt Island serves as a living tribute to the conservation legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt. This natural sanctuary is filled with trails, wetlands, and a large statue plaza, making it one of the best escapes into nature without leaving the urban landscape.
5. DEA Museum
The DEA Museum offers an in-depth look at the history of drug law enforcement and its evolution over the decades. The museum showcases real confiscated items and artifacts from major drug operations dating back to the early 20th century. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that reveal how science, policy, and culture intersect in the fight against illegal drugs.
4. Longbridge Park
Longbridge Park is a spacious modern park featuring athletic fields, elevated walkways, and incredible views of planes landing at Reagan National Airport. The park gets its name from a historic wooden structure built in the early 1800s that once connected Arlington and Washington. It is a favorite spot for exercise, photography, or simply relaxing by the water.
3. Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial
Sitting high above the Potomac River, Arlington House offers sweeping views of the capital. This Greek Revival mansion was home to Robert E. Lee before he joined the Confederacy and played a major role in Civil War history. Today, it functions as a museum exploring the lives of the Lee family and the enslaved people who lived there.
2. Pentagon Tours
A guided tour of the Pentagon offers insight into one of the most famous and secure buildings in the world. Construction began just months after the attack on Pearl Harbor and was completed in only 16 months, showcasing extraordinary engineering. Visitors learn about military operations, architectural design, and historic moments that shaped American defense.
1. Fashion Center at Pentagon City
The Fashion Center at Pentagon City is a bustling shopping destination that offers hundreds of stores, dining options, and easy metro access. Since its opening in the 1980s, it has quickly become one of the region’s most popular retail hubs. Whether you’re browsing brands or grabbing lunch, it’s the perfect place to wrap up your visit.
Arlington might be just across the river from the capital, but it carries its own powerful stories, stunning views, and unforgettable landmarks. If you enjoyed exploring these top destinations, consider visiting Arlington to experience its rich history and vibrant culture firsthand.
