5 Things to Do in Arlington, VA

Washington, D.C. is rich in history, culture, and world-famous landmarks that attract visitors to the nation’s capital. However, the crush of the political hub of the United States can make living and working in the city a challenge. Arlington real estate is an ideal option for those seeking rural surroundings that provide easy access to D.C. Arlington sits on the Potomac River across from the capital and has approximately 237,000 residents within an area of 26 square miles. It has the fifth-highest median income in the United States, topping $120,000 annually as of 2019.

While housing prices in the country’s suburbs have skyrocketed in the last two years, Arlington’s median list price for single-family homes has also increased—from $1,450,000 last year to approximately $1,577,000 today. Arlington is a strong seller’s market with more interested buyers than available properties to choose from. For residents or prospective buyers with college-age children, nearby choices include prestigious institutions such as Marymount University, a private Catholic university that offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across a wide array of disciplines.

With low mortgage rates and rising home prices, now is an ideal time to invest in Arlington real estate. Arlington has luxury living options, activities, history, theaters, and opportunities—including the upcoming arrival of Amazon’s co-headquarters, Amazon HQ2. The following are just five of the landmarks, activities, and events you can enjoy as a resident of Arlington.

One of the spots you’re likely to frequent once you’ve invested in the Arlington real estate market is the 38-acre Gulf Branch Nature Center and Park near the Potomac River. This Arlington park offers hiking and biking trails, footpaths, and lots of trees and greenery to enjoy as an outdoor enthusiast or a weary commuter. The park offers seasonal festivals, a working blacksmith shop, environmental education programs, and flower, animal, and insect gardens.

There are eight farmers' markets in the Arlington area. You can experience the joy of farm-fresh produce and locally crafted goods at each destination! Tuck into homemade pastries, artisan bread, gourmet cheeses, and picnic-worthy treats while you relax and listen to live music.

Old Town Alexandria is a nationally designated historic district founded in 1749, where foodies find themselves in gastronomic bliss at more than 200 restaurants. Antique enthusiasts and fashionistas can take advantage of the slew of boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. The Old Town Waterfront offers spectacular views of the Potomac River, and the Washington, D.C. cafés and pubs nearby round out a peaceful day of sitting by the river. Water taxis and cruise vessels transport the adventurous to historical venues, including the National Mall, the Washington Nationals Park, and Mount Vernon, just to name a few. Summer brings dozens of  orchestral concerts, and many fireworks shows at Mount Vernon.

Take a drive—or water taxi—into Washington, D.C. proper to visit the world-famous Kennedy Center. Built in honor of President John F. Kennedy, the center hosts varied performing arts genres, including theater, dance, orchestral music, jazz, modern, and folk music. It boasts an opera house, a concert hall, and various theaters and stages and is home to the annual Kennedy Center Honors awards that honor five performing legends for their lifetime contributions to the performing arts.

The CEB Tower is a 31-story building with an observation deck that features breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and beyond via floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s an ideal spot for events including banquets, receptions, business meetings, and weddings in its indoor facilities and outdoor terrace. Admission is complimentary for Arlington County residents.

Arlington homes for sale are located near metro stops for easy access to and from the capital. They run the gamut of quiet, suburban locales to bustling urban hotspots that feature vibrant nightlife, shopping, world-class food, and live entertainment—all within the 26-square mile city footprint. A few of our favorite entertainment hubs include: