Things to See and Do in Arlington, VA

The land known today as Arlington County was originally surveyed to be included as part of the Nation's Capital. Arlington County gets its name from the "Arlington House," the Robert E. Lee house located on the grounds of the Arlington National Cemetery. While there are no cities or towns located in Arlington County, Arlington is comprised of five distinct and active communities. In addition to the national cemetery, Arlington is also home to the United States Marine Corps Memorial (Iwo Jima), The Pentagon, LBJ Memorial Grove, and a host of other attractions. Today, Arlington is sought out for its communities, which offer among the widest varieties of shopping and dining experiences in the metropolitan area.

Spring and Summer Highlights

Washington | Arlington | Alexandria |  Montgomery County

Netherlands Carillon
For one of the best vistas of Washington, D.C., come to the Virginia shore of the Potomac River, adjacent to the Iwo Jima memorial. And while you're there, tune your ear to the peals of the Netherlands Carillon, a gift from the Dutch to the U.S. following World War II. Every day, various anthems, march themes and hymns play at 12:00 and 6:00 p.m. No visit to the Netherlands Carillon would be complete without visiting the nearby Marine Corps War Memorial (better known locally as the Iwo Jima Memorial), dedicated to all Marines who have given their lives in the defense of the United States since 1775. Visit the National Park Service web site for information about the Carillon and the War Memorial.

Georgetown Flea Market at Courthouse
The flea market that has attracted countless bargain hunters, tourists, politicians, Supreme Court justices, and even the occasional movie star since 1972 has temporarily relocated from Georgetown to Arlington's Courthouse Plaza, and although the location has changed, the 100+ eclectic and quality vendors have remained a constant! Open both Saturday and Sunday year-round, visitors will find a more traditional farmers' market on Saturday (9:00 to 4:00) while Sunday (8:00-4:00) is dedicated to vintage and antique furnishings, artwork and vintage clothing. Nearby restaurants can round out your visit, and the Courthouse Metro will ensure easy travel. For more information, visit the Flea Market web site.

Arlington House and National Cemetery
Tour the County namesake with a visit to Robert E. Lee's home of 30 years, the Arlington House. The home is open to visitors for self-guided tours every day from 9:30 to 4:30, with the exception of January 1 and December 25. After the tour, be one of the four million people who visit Arlington National Cemetery every year. Hop aboard a Tourmobile Sightseeing bus, the only authorized riding tour through the cemetery - stops include the eternal flame at John F. Kennedy's grave and the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Click here for more information about Arlington House, here for information about the Arlington National Cemetery, and here for information about the Tourmobile Sightseeing buses.

More Highlights: Washington | Alexandria |  Montgomery County

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