We love introducing people to Arlington and the surrounding area. This is one of the most diverse and dynamic places to live in the entire country!

Are you visiting, investing, or looking for a new home?

Here are the 15 best things to do in Arlington, Virginia.

1. Visit Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington’s major draw has always been Arlington National Cemetery, where America’s soldiers are buried.

Some of the 624 graves dating back to the U.S. Civil War. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, you won’t want to miss JFK’s grave or the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial.

2. Visit the 9/11 Memorial

This moving tribute to the 184 people who died at the Pentagon during the 9/11 attack is an outdoor memorial that covers a landscaped park.

In the park lies two, acre-long waterfalls that mirror each other and flow as the largest man-made waterfall in North America. It is left behind in the footprints of what was once the Twin Towers.

This beautiful memorial has the names of 2,977 victims and rescue engraved in bronze to remember those who died in the September 11, 2001 terror attacks and the World Trade Center Bombing in February 1993.

3. Check out the Women in Military Service Memorial

The first significant memorial to honor women in the United States Armed Forces opened in 1997 and can be found near the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery.

You can explore the exhibits, events, and collections at the Women’s Military Service Memorial, and dive into the stories behind the women that serve our great nation!

4. The Robert E. Lee Memorial

Formerly the Custis-Lee Mansion, this exciting mansion designed in Greek revival architecture provides a stunning view of the National Mall.

This was the home of America’s most famous Confederate general- Robert E. Lee. The mansion was initially built in 1802 and is full of rich history to explore. You can visit the estate after perusing around the Arlington National Cemetery.

5. Take a Tour of the Pentagon

You’re in the Nation’s Capital, why not take a tour of the Pentagon?

If you’re interested in how the Defense Department works, head there.

Take a visit of the uniquely shaped building, which peaks above its Capital city. View Military collection documents and archives, and learn about the branches of the military, the Joint Staff as well as the Secretary of Defense.

6.Track the Mount Vernon Trail

Hiking and biking are accessible along the 18-mile Mount Vernon trail that winds through Northern Virginia. The entire trail begins at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and trails all the way to Theodore Roosevelt Island.

Take in the marvelous views of the Potomac River, woodlands, wetlands, and the city of Washington, D.C. as you ride and walk along this trail.

7. The Mall at Pentagon City

Every retailer you can imagine is represented at Pentagon City’s mall. It’s kid-friendly shopping, and there are also plenty of places to eat.

This mall is a shoppers dream come true, there are seven levels, let me repeat, seven levels of shopping galore. You can find everything and anything here, it is diverse, high fashion, and a must-see.

8. Shop Outside at the Village at Shirlington

If you prefer to shop al fresco, visit these outdoor shops, where there are major retailers, small boutiques, as well as restaurants and even residential housing which overlooks the “village” atmosphere.

It’s a quaint place for some relaxed shopping and great bites underneath the moonlight and on a summer night.

9. Go Green at Long Bridge Park

A great place to get some exercise and fresh air in a social environment, Long Bridge Parkhas recreational facilities, a beautiful view of the Potomac, and a gorgeous garden. Stroll along its pathways with family and friends, picnic in the garden, and look up at the stars at night end.

10. Hear the Netherlands Carillon

At noon and 6:00 p.m. visitors to the Netherlands Carillon can hear the 50 bells donated by the Dutch, which hang behind a scenic steel tower with open sides.

The surrounding area is perfect for a stroll or a picnic, with flowers, sculpted lions, and walking paths. The Netherlands Carillon is singing for you, and it is a melodious tune.

11. See a Show

There’s lots of theater in Arlington. Check out performances at Synetic Theater, Wakefield Theater Arts, Signature Theatre, or BMD Dance.

You can watch a different show every weekend, or even volunteer if you are an art lover of the year!

12. Eat Pizza at Pupatella

There is a lot of outstanding food to be found in Arlington, and Pupatella Pizza has the best Neapolitan pies.

They take pizza very seriously here, so much so that it requires a year of training before you can become a pizza pie chef! The pizzas are baked in special woodfire ovens that were made from Naples Italian pizza masters.

Eat in or take away options are available, and we think you should try a risotto ball.

13. Have a Happy Hour

If you’re ready for a cocktail, we have some recommendations. Try Ambar or Palette 22 if you’re artsy. Another, more classic spot is The Liberty Tavern, where you can enjoy both drinks and Sunday brunch!

14. Take a Hike at Potomac Overlook

Wow-city living and city hiking. Who knew Arlington could be so amazingly diverse?

Lace up the hiking shoes and visit Potomac Overlook Regional Park, where you’ll enjoy trails, an organic garden, a nature center, and outdoor concerts in the summer.

15. Take a Class at the Arlington Art Center

The art exhibits are fun at Arlington Art Center, but if you really want to live a little, take a class in anything from painting to drawing to sewing.

Dive into that inner child of yours and experience what it feels like to play with colors and creativity again. Take a soul mate or a friend.

We, at Nomadic Real Estate, hope you enjoyed these 15 fun things to do in Arlington, VA. If you have questions, we have got answers. Feel Free to reach out, and find out what your next home will be like.

We explore neighborhoods, city living, travel, and livelihood because we want you to love where you live!