Much like its mighty neighbor, the Potomac River, Arlington County runs deep with historical reminiscences tracing back to early America. Once part of the original design of Washington, D.C. (its neighbor to the east), some of the world’s greatest monuments and memorials exist in Arlington County, including: Arlington National Cemetery, the Pentagon, the Marine Corps War Memorial, and the Air Force Memorial. With over 250,000 military heroes buried beneath its ground since the Civil War, Arlington National Cemetery is the second largest cemetery in the nation. At this national landmark visitors can witness the changing of the guard or take a walk through the perfectly lined rows of white headstones to pay homage to some of the country’s finest soldiers. Located near Arlington National Arlington Cemetery, the Marine Corps War Memorial (also known as Iwo Jima Memorial) is a military memorial statue dedicated to United States Marine Corps personnel who have died since 1775. The Air Force Memorial, located near the Pentagon, pays homage to Air Force members who have died in the line of duty. Another place to visit in Arlington is the home of Confederate leader General Robert E. Lee; the Arlington House hosts daily tours of the house, grounds, and museum. Another popular place to visit in the area is President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, which is located down the hill from the Arlington House. The Pentagon is also located in Arlington County; this national headquarters for the Department of Defense is a city in itself. tours of the Pentagon are available upon request. With two-hundred parks and playgrounds, eighty-six miles of biking and jogging trails, nine live-stage theaters, and eight libraries, Arlington County is a vibrant place to visit and live. Arlington VA Park Recreation
While historical landmarks give life to the rural hills of the Potomac shoreline, thriving commercial and residential neighborhoods make up the pulsating urban communities that exist throughout the rest of the county. The Pentagon City Mall offers upscale shopping and five-star dining to its residents. For one-of-a-kind entertainment, the Kettler Capitals Iceplex skating arena promises fun for the entire family.
Centrally located in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, Arlington County has eleven metro stops and provides easy access to Ronald Reagan National Airport. In addition, the county is serviced by the regional Metrobus. Several bridges offer direct access into Washington, D.C., such as the Arlington Memorial Bridge. With Washington, D.C. next door, the list of places to see is endless. For starters, some places to visit include: the National Mall & Memorial Parks, the Washington Monument, the National Museum of American History, the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian Institution, the Lincoln Memorial, the United States Capitol, and the White House.
