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Essential Weekend Highlights
- Start at Arlington National Cemetery for solemn history, rated 4.8/5 by visitors for its moving Changing of the Guard.
- Bike the Mount Vernon Trail for scenic Potomac views, perfect for active mornings.
- Explore Rosslyn and Crystal City for dining and nightlife, with meals averaging $20-40 per person.
- Budget $500 for two days, including a mid-range hotel, food, and Metro rides; save by using ART buses.
- Stay safe with low violent crime rates (1 in 353 chance) and emergency line 703-228-1300.
Top-Rated Things to See and Do in Arlington, VA
Arlington VA packs profound history, outdoor adventures, and urban vibes into a compact weekend escape just across from Washington, DC. I’ve spent countless weekends here, weaving through solemn memorials by day and lively neighborhoods by night.
My favorite discovery was stumbling upon the quiet trails of Gulf Branch Nature Center after a morning at the cemetery, where fox sightings turned a simple walk into a wildlife encounter.
Arlington National Cemetery: Heart of American Honor
The cemetery stands as Arlington’s crown jewel, sprawling over 639 acres with over 400,000 graves honoring veterans from every war. I recommend arriving early for the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a precise 38-minute ceremony that leaves you breathless, rated 4.8/5 across thousands of reviews for its emotional impact.
Tours run from 8:30am to 4pm daily, with free entry but guided tram tickets cost $18 for adults, operating every 30 minutes from the welcome center. Visit the officialthe official sitesite or call 877-907-8585 for schedules. Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk to Arlington House, Robert E. Lee’s former home offering panoramic DC skyline views.
Marine Corps War Memorial and Pentagon Memorial
The iconic Iwo Jima statue, formally the US Marine Corps War Memorial, captures the flag-raising moment with stunning detail, illuminated at night for dramatic photos and rated 4.7/5. Nearby, the Pentagon Memorial honors 9/11 victims with 184 illuminated benches, a poignant 2-acre site open from dawnfrom dawn to dusk. I once watched a sunset
open fromhere, the lights flickeredflickered on as families reflected quietly. Both are free andfree and accessible via the Mountfree and Vernon Trail for a 3-mile scenic bike loop.
Family Fun at Ocean Dunes Waterpark and Nature Centers
For lighter vibes, Upton Hill’s Ocean Dunes Waterpark dazzles with slides and pools open Memorial Day to Labor Day, daily 10am-6pm, withthe Mount entry $10-15 per person. Gulf Branch Nature Center offers free exhibits in a log cabin with wildlife trails where I’ve spotted deer at dusk. These spots earn 4.5/5 ratings for blending education and play, ideal for kids or relaxed afternoons.
Recommended Tours and Itineraries
Guided experiences elevate your weekend. Official Arlington Cemetery tours depart every 30 minutes for $18 from 10am to 6pmfrom 10am to 6pm with adults, covering key sites efficiently. Historic trolley tours hit memorials and hidden gems like the Exorcist Steps (4.5/5 on Yelp), lasting 90 minutes for $35. Book via Arlington Tours. My itinerary: Day 1: for $18 for cemetery and trail bike; Day 2: Day2: Day 1: waterpark or Rosslyn Jazz Fest if in season, ending with Clarendon dining. Length of stay: 2-3 days max to avoid fatigue, extendable for DC day trips.
Best Places to Stay in Arlington, DayArlington, Day 2: VA
Arlington offers neighborhoods for every vibe. Rosslyn suits business travelers with skyline views; Crystal City for Pentagon proximity; andproximity; and Ballston for lively eats. Top picks include Hilton Arlington (4.7/5, from $150/night),proximity; and praised for clean rooms and staff, andand Homewood Suites Rosslyn (4.7/5, $200/night) with free breakfast and kitchens. Budget options average $119/night, luxury $345. Book via StayArlington.
Pros of Staying Here
- Walkable to Metro, minutes from DC.
- Diverse dining from food trucks to upscale.
- Green spaces amid urban energy.
Cons to Consider
- Peak season crowds at memorials.
- Hotel rates spike during events.
- Parking isParking is limited in central areas.
Typical Costs, Budgets and Money-Saving Tips
Weekend Breakdown
Meals: $20-40/person; Metro rides $2-6; Attractions mostly free, tours $18-35. Total for Arlington, one:Arlington, one: transit (Sunset Transit); $400 (hostel, parking is budget: public (sunsetransit);ic transit); Comfort: Comfort: $600 (mid-range hotel, some tours); Luxury: $800+.
Save by buying a Metro SmarTrip card ($10 load), visiting free parks, and eating at farmers markets. Avoid taxis; use ART buses free in zones.
How to Get Around Arlington, VA
Metro rail connects Rosslyn, Ballston, and Crystal City stations efficiently for $2-6/ride. ART buses fill gaps and are free within zones. Bike shares or the Mount Vernon Trail for eco-friendly fun. From Dulles Airport, the Silver Line subway 49min $3-6; Reagan National is 10min taxi $20. Rideshares average $15-30 locally. WMATA Trip Planner is invaluable.
Best Time to Visit and How to Get There
Spring (April-May) and fall (Sept-Oct) offer mild 60-75°F weather, peak foliage in mid-Oct, and fewer crowds. Summer suits waterpark fans despite 85°F heat; winter is quiet for memorials. Fly into Reagan National (DCA) for ease or Dulles (IAD) via the Silver Line. Drive 21mi from IAD in 28min.
How to Stay Safe with Local Pro Tips
Arlington’s safer than 89% of Virginia spots; violent crime is 1 in 353. Stick to lit paths at night; crime is at night, and watch belongings in crowds. Emergency: 911; non-emergency: 703-228-1300 or 211 for assistance. Street issues: 703-228-6555. My tip: Download offline maps and share the itinerary. the itinerary. Locals are helpful; ask at visitors centers.
Explore Nearby and Personal Insights
Venture to DC via Metro for the Smithsonian or Mount Vernon 20min south. “My best weekend blended cemetery reflection with trail biking and Crystal City bites, feeling history pulse amid modern life,” I recall from a fall trip. Follow @visit_arlington for events.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arlington VA Weekend
What are the best free things to do in VA?
Arlington National Cemetery, the Pentagon Memorial, Mount Vernon Trail biking, and Gulf Branch trails offer profound free experiences blending history and nature.
How many days is enough for Arlington?
Two full days cover highlights; add a third for DC or relaxation to fully absorb without rushing.
Is Arlington VA safe for solo travelers?
Yes, with low violent crime and walkableareas, stay aware at night and use Arlington’s well-lit Metro stations.
What is the average cost of a weekend in Arlington?
Around $500 for a budget solo, including stay, food, and transit; double for couples sharing rooms.