Arlington, Virginia: History and Local Flavor Near Washington, D.C.

Public transportation is interconnected between Arlington and Washington D.C., ensuring easy access to all the attractions on both sides of the river. The cost of accommodations in Arlington is less than in Washington D.C., and the city offers some of the most iconic views of the Washington D.C. skyline.

Meaningful national historical monuments can be found throughout Arlington. No trip to this area is complete without a visit to Arlington National Cemetery. Over 150 years old, it is a place where visitors come to witness American history.

Arlington National Cemetery is no ordinary graveyard, starting with its beautiful fields and arboretum. There are thousands of neatly arranged white tombstones of American military men and women, as well as other important figures in American history. Visit the gravesite of former President John F. Kennedy and view its Eternal Flame. Former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis is buried next to him.

Soldiers who served the United States are also buried here, as are their family members. You’ll find touching tributes to them everywhere, including the Changing of the Guard Ceremony, which takes place every hour at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This powerful place holds the remains of unidentified American soldiers from overseas wars. Keep an eye on the cemetery’s calendar of events: Some solemn ceremonies can bring up to 5,000 people together in the Memorial Amphitheater.

Adjacent to the Arlington National Cemetery is the U.S. Air Force Memorial, a must-see monument for all aviation aficionados and others. The impressive, 82-meter, stainless-steel structures are engineering marvels, soaring into the Virginia skies like jet fighters. The memorial hosts several events throughout the year and features an astonishing view of Washington, D.C. and the Pentagon, the headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense.

After a day of sightseeing, head over to the Clarendon neighborhood, which is one of many great neighborhoods in Arlington, featuring boutiques, restaurants, bars and bakeries. At Northside Social Coffee & Wine, grab a cup of coffee and relax, before hitting the town for the great restaurants and bars amid the beautiful architecture. You’ll find excellent refreshments and cuisine, live music and a bustling arts scene. The Clarendon Ballroom with its huge rooftop is a spot where many people gather to enjoy the end of the day al fresco with a cold beer or their favorite cocktail.

If you’re craving Spanish food, try Jaleo in Crystal City. Founded by celebrity chef Jose Andres, the restaurant has a great vibe. Start with the signature Citadelle Gin, a mix of gin, lemon and tonic water. Or try Jose's margarita. Jaleo is a truly authentic taste of Spain.

If you’re looking for a shopping trip in Arlington, there are plenty of options. The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City features such stores as Apple, Armani, Hugo Boss, Michael Kors, Nordstrom, Tourneau and many others. And if you're staying at the Ritz-Carlton in Pentagon City, you will have access to Fashion Centre straight from the lobby.

It is this mix of American history, local flavor and easy access to Washington, D.C. that makes Arlington a great travel destination.