Commuters stride with purpose, traffic marches along the avenues, and Arlington pulses with life. But step just a few blocks away from the main streets, and the pace begins to shift. Sidewalks give way to tree-lined trails. Parks stretch between neighborhoods. Arlington manages to balance it all with easy access to the outdoors alongside deep-rooted history, great shopping, and a seriously diverse food scene.
Crumbs & Coffee
Our morning starts with a steady hum of espresso machines and sunlight pouring through the windows of Daydrift Books & Cafe in the National Landing neighborhood—which includes Crystal City, Pentagon City, and parts of Potomac Yard.
I order a large brown sugar shaken espresso and watch as it’s carefully poured. It strikes that perfect balance: sweet and strong. I also ordered their famous giant cinnamon roll, served only on weekends, a silky egg sandwich, and a flaky chocolate croissant. My husband, toddler, and I split it all as we look around us, people-watching the locals filtering in and out. This is the kind of place that makes you want to linger a little longer—even with an eager toddler—browsing the book-lined walls before stepping back out into the day.
Barista Olivia Graham, Daydrift Books & Cafe. Photos by Kyle LaFerriere
Paths, Planes, and Parks
With coffee in hand, we head toward the 18-mile Mount Vernon Trail, one of the region’s most scenic paths stretching along the Potomac River.
Within minutes, the city noise fades behind us, replaced by the steady rhythm of runners passing by and cyclists whirring along the pavement. To our right, the river glints in the morning sun. Across the water, the monuments of Washington, D.C., rise in the distance.
The trail leads us to Gravelly Point Park, where the experience shifts from peaceful to exhilarating. Planes roar overhead every few minutes as they ascend from Reagan National, so low it feels like you could reach up and touch them. My toddler points upwards to the sky each time one passes, wide-eyed and thrilled, as families spread out picnic blankets and groups of friends lean back in the grass to watch the steady parade of aircrafts.
Surreal Global Kitchen at National Landing embodies biophilic design. Photos by Sam Kittner.
Not far away, Long Bridge Park offers a slightly quieter scene. Paths curve through open green space, families gather on grassy hills, children play their weekend soccer games, and the skyline of Washington, including the distant tip of the Washington Monument, comes into view from the park’s elevated spots.
Each of these spaces reveals how special the city of Arlington is. Take in the view, and simply spend time outside.
From Boutiques to Bookstores
After a morning outside, we trade river views for storefront windows. Arlington’s shopping scene unfolds much like its trails: walkable, varied, and full of surprises. While the area boasts many upscale chain stores, like the Pentagon City Centre, we decide to keep it local.
In the Westover neighborhood, Covet is a boutique that feels curated but approachable, with racks of thoughtfully chosen pieces and shelves lined with gifts you didn’t know you needed until you see them. It’s the kind of place where you can look without pressure, discovering a statement piece or the perfect hostess gift.
Just around the corner, One More Page Books invites you to slow down and browse. Shelves climb from floor to ceiling, and handwritten staff recommendations peek out between the titles. Like all great independent bookstores, it’s easy to lose track of time here, flipping through books and discovering a few unexpected reads.
A Taste of Arlington
Arlington’s food scene is full of surprises, too, blending inventive concepts with effortless comfort. Water Park stands out as the perfect example. Part outdoor food hall, part gathering spot, it’s bright, modern, and full of energy.
Stalls line the space, each with its own personality and specialty, from freshly baked pastries to small plates inspired by global flavors. It’s a grab-and-go experience where you can appreciate the murmurs of conversation, clatter of dishes, and aroma of everything cooking at once, creating a lively, festival-like vibe.
of the park’s infinity fountain. Photo by Sam Kittner.
A short drive from the National Landing area of Arlington, Palette 22, in Shirlington, offers a different kind of experience: refined yet relaxed, with tapas dishes that feel thoughtfully prepared but not overly fussy. I highly recommend going with their bottomless dining option that lets you sample unlimited appetizers, entrées, desserts, and more.
Palette 22 Executive Chef Fred Villa. Photos by Kyle LaFerriere.
T–B: from Palette 22—sesame steak skewers, Holy Guava cocktail, and poke tuna tacos
Water Bar mixologist Lewis
Allan works his magic.
We happily ate our way through a wide range of dishes, from the flavorful street corn to the steak skewers. Everything we tried was delicious, and we wrapped up the meal with a plate or two of warm, freshly made churros. It felt a bit like enjoying tapas in Spain, but with an American twist. The menu reflects Arlington’s diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from American burger sliders to chicken tikka masala and dan dan noodles, creating a delicious melting pot of flavors all in one place.
Together, these spots show Arlington’s culinary personality. Each one inventive and full of character.
Walking Through History
Arlington wears its history in plain sight. Its streets, parks, and riverfronts are more than scenic; they’re living reminders of the people and events that shaped the region. The past feels close here, and nowhere is that connection more powerful than at Arlington National Cemetery.
Walking among the rows of white headstones, it’s impossible not to pause and take it all in. Olivia Van Den Heuvel, Army National Military Cemeteries public affairs specialist, says, “Arlington National Cemetery stands as a profound symbol of service and sacrifice for the United States, with origins that trace back to the Civil War. The first military burial was for Private William Christman on May 13, 1864.”
She continues, “Since that day, service members from every American conflict, from the Revolutionary War to present-day operations, have been laid to rest on these hallowed grounds. The cemetery spans 639 acres, and nearly 430,000 service members and their family members are laid to rest here.”
Arlington National Cemetery is a deeply moving place to honor the men and women who have served our country. A few sites stand out, like The Kennedy Family Gravesite, where President John F. Kennedy, his wife, and two children are buried, drawing visitors from around the world.
Another must-visit is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded 24 hours a day. It holds the remains of unknown soldiers from World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.
Nearby, the Military Women’s Memorial, along with views of the United States Marine Corps War Memorial and the Netherlands Carillon, offers additional places to reflect and honor those who have served.
Arlington’s history feels profoundly personal. The experience is both humbling and unforgettable, offering a space to reflect on sacrifice, honor, and the enduring legacy of those who served.
A Modern Home Base
After a day of trails, plane-watching, wandering through shops and parks, and appreciating the area’s rich history, the AC Hotel National Landing feels like the perfect spot to pause. Sleek and contemporary, with warm wood accents and soft lighting, the lobby invites you to settle in.
Our room offers the kind of calm that makes it easy to recharge. Large windows catch the last of the afternoon light, and planes descend past at eye level as they approach Reagan National, a reminder of just how connected this corner of Arlington is.
Close to the river, trails, and the heart of National Landing, the AC Hotel is a comfortable, grounded home base after a full day of discovering this northern Virginia city.
Our experiences reveal how special Arlington is. Take in the view, spend time outside, and enjoy its uniqueness. Whether you come for a weekend or linger a little longer, the city has a way of surprising you—and leaving you already planning your next visit.
If You Have More Time In Arlington
Flight Wine Shop
269 19th Court S, Suite 90 | FlightWineShop.com
This boutique wine shop pairs easy-to-enjoy bottles with expert guidance, making it simple to uncover new favorites. Whether picking up a gift or something for a quiet night in, it’s a local gem.
PLNTR
269 19th Court S, Suite 85 | PLNTR.com
PLNTR is a charming mix of plants, gifts, and home décor. The shop also hosts fun classes throughout the month, offering a great opportunity to try something new or take home a plant that adds a bit of life to your surroundings.
Surreal Global Kitchen
2117 Crystal Dr. | SurrealGlobalKitchen.com
This lively restaurant is known for its globally inspired dishes—everything from lasagna to poke. Each plate is well-crafted and beautifully presented, looking like a piece of art and somehow tasting even better than it looks.
The DEA Museum
700 Army Navy Dr. | Museum.DEA.gov
The DEA Museum, located steps from the Pentagon City Metro Station, traces the history of American drug policy and federal law enforcement through interactive displays, personal stories, and compelling artifacts — inspiring visitors of all ages to become informed advocates in the fight against illicit drugs.
Art Walking Tour of Rosslyn
Accessible on the Metro’s Orange, Blue and Silver Lines | StayArlington.com
Discover Arlington’s award-winning public art on a walking tour.
Featured image by Sam Kittner. This article originally appeared in the June 2026 issue.
