Arlington

Arlington County, Virginia: A Dynamic and Desirable Place to Live

Arlington County, Virginia, is one of the most sought-after areas in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan region. Located just across the Potomac River from the nation’s capital, Arlington offers a perfect blend of urban convenience, suburban charm, and community-oriented living. Known for its excellent schools, diverse neighborhoods, vibrant dining scene, and abundance of parks, Arlington attracts families, professionals, and retirees alike. With its rich history, strong economy, and unparalleled access to transportation, Arlington is a top choice for those looking to live near Washington, D.C.

History of Arlington County, Virginia

Arlington County has a fascinating history that dates back to the early days of the United States. Originally part of the District of Columbia, Arlington was retroceded to Virginia in 1846. The county is home to numerous historic landmarks, including Arlington National Cemetery, where the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and President John F. Kennedy’s Eternal Flame draw millions of visitors annually.

Other notable historic sites include the Arlington House (The Robert E. Lee Memorial) and the Pentagon, which serves as the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense. Arlington’s rich history is preserved through its museums, monuments, and cultural institutions, making it a place where the past and present coexist.

Real Estate in Arlington County

Arlington County offers a wide variety of housing options, catering to diverse lifestyles and budgets. From luxury high-rise condominiums in urban areas to charming single-family homes in quiet neighborhoods, Arlington has something for everyone. Popular neighborhoods include:
• Clarendon: A trendy area with modern condos, bustling nightlife, and a walkable urban vibe.
• Ballston: Known for its high-rise apartments, shopping, and proximity to the Ballston Quarter.
• Rosslyn: Ideal for professionals, offering stunning views of the D.C. skyline and convenient access to the city.
• Crystal City and Pentagon City: These neighborhoods are undergoing exciting transformations as part of the Amazon HQ2 development, offering a mix of residential and retail options.
• Cherrydale: A family-friendly neighborhood with historic homes, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community.

Arlington’s real estate market is competitive, reflecting its desirable location and high demand. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, Arlington offers a range of options, from affordable apartments to multi-million-dollar homes.

Schools and Education in Arlington County

Arlington County is home to some of the best schools in the country, making it a top choice for families. The Arlington Public Schools (APS) system consistently ranks highly for academic excellence, diversity, and student performance. Top-rated schools include:
• Yorktown High School: Known for its rigorous academics and strong sports programs.
• Washington-Liberty High School: Offers International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP) programs.
• Jamestown Elementary School: A standout among Arlington’s exceptional elementary schools.

In addition to public schools, Arlington offers a range of private school options, including Bishop O’Connell High School and The Potomac School in nearby McLean. For higher education, Arlington is close to institutions like George Mason University and Marymount University, offering residents access to top-tier academic programs.

Dining and Nightlife in Arlington County

Arlington boasts a vibrant dining scene with diverse options to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re looking for casual bites, international cuisine, or upscale dining, Arlington has it all. Popular restaurants include:
• Ambar (Clarendon): A modern Balkan restaurant offering a popular bottomless brunch and dinner experience.
• Pupatella (Ballston): Renowned for its authentic Neapolitan pizza, this casual spot is a local favorite.
• The Salt Line (Ballston): A New England-inspired seafood restaurant with a raw bar and creative dishes.
• Tupelo Honey (Arlington): A Southern-inspired eatery serving comfort food with a modern twist.
• SER Restaurant (Ballston): Specializing in authentic Spanish cuisine, from tapas to paella.

For nightlife, Arlington offers a variety of bars, breweries, and lounges. The Lot in Clarendon is a popular outdoor beer garden, while O'Sullivan's Irish Pub offers a varied beer selection, traditional Irish music, karaoke and trivia nights. Craft beer lovers will enjoy Bronson Bierhall in Ballston.

Shopping in Arlington County

Arlington provides excellent shopping options, from large retail centers to local boutiques. Ballston Quarter is a premier destination, offering a mix of shops, dining, and entertainment. Nearby Pentagon City Mall features high-end retailers, including Nordstrom and Apple, as well as popular brands like Zara and Sephora.

For a more unique shopping experience, visit The Village at Shirlington, which offers a walkable mix of independent shops, specialty stores, and restaurants. Farmers markets, such as the Arlington Courthouse Farmers Market, provide fresh produce and artisanal goods, making them a favorite weekend activity for locals.

Parks and Recreation in Arlington County

Arlington is known for its abundance of parks and green spaces, offering residents opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The county’s extensive trail network makes it ideal for walking, running, and cycling. Highlights include:
• The Mount Vernon Trail: A scenic trail along the Potomac River with stunning views of D.C. landmarks.
• The Custis Trail: A popular route for cyclists and joggers connecting Arlington to downtown D.C.
• Gravelly Point Park: A unique spot where visitors can watch planes take off and land at Reagan National Airport.
• Long Bridge Park: Features sports fields, walking paths, and a state-of-the-art aquatics center.

For families, parks like Lyon Village Park and Bluemont Park offer playgrounds, picnic areas, and recreational facilities.

Arts, Culture, and Entertainment in Arlington County

Arlington County has a thriving arts and culture scene, with events and venues that appeal to all ages. The Signature Theatre in Shirlington is a Tony Award-winning theater known for its innovative productions. For live music, The Birchmere in Alexandria is a renowned venue featuring national and local acts.

The county also hosts annual events such as the Arlington County Fair, Rosslyn Jazz Festival, and the Clarendon Day Festival, which bring the community together with live music, food, and entertainment. Public art installations and cultural programs further enrich Arlington’s vibrant cultural landscape.

Transportation and Accessibility in Arlington County

One of Arlington’s greatest advantages is its exceptional transportation network. The county’s proximity to Washington, D.C., makes commuting easy, whether by car, bike, or public transit. Arlington is served by five Washington Metro lines (Blue, Orange, Silver, Yellow, and Green), with stations conveniently located in major neighborhoods like Rosslyn, Ballston, and Crystal City.

For drivers, major highways like I-66, I-395, and the George Washington Parkway provide quick access to surrounding areas. Arlington’s Capital Bikeshare program and extensive bike lanes make cycling a convenient and eco-friendly transportation option.

For air travel, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is just minutes away, offering domestic and international flights.

Community and Lifestyle in Arlington County

Arlington’s strong sense of community and high quality of life make it an appealing place to live. The county is known for its safety, walkability, and inclusivity, attracting a diverse population of residents. Arlington hosts numerous community events, farmers markets, and festivals, fostering connections among neighbors.

The county’s commitment to sustainability and green initiatives is evident in its eco-friendly policies, bike infrastructure, and LEED-certified buildings. Families, young professionals, and retirees all find something to love about Arlington’s dynamic yet welcoming atmosphere.

Why Move to Arlington County, Virginia?

Arlington County offers an unbeatable combination of location, amenities, and lifestyle. Its proximity to Washington, D.C., top-rated schools, thriving dining scene, and abundance of parks make it a premier destination for living, working, and playing. With its diverse housing options, vibrant culture, and strong sense of community, Arlington truly has something for everyone.

Whether you’re drawn to its historic landmarks, excellent schools, or exciting dining and shopping options, Arlington County is a place where you can enjoy the best of urban and suburban living.