Attractions Nearby Arlington, Day Trips and Excursions

(Arlington, Virginia - VA, USA)

The state of Virginia is certainly filled with seducing attractions and many of its best are really just a very short distance from Arlington, often being reached via the prominent George Washington Parkway. Virginia attractions especially close to Arlington include those within Alexandria, Fredericksburg, Manassas and Springfield.

For outdoor attractions near to Arlington, take a 30-minute drive to the town of Great Falls, where both the Great Falls Park and the River Bend County Park await day trippers. Alternatively, enjoy an excursion to Maryland and explore the equally impressive cities of Annapolis and Baltimore.

Alexandria

Together with Georgetown, Alexandria is an especially historic city, which precedes the founding of Washington as the national's capital. Alexandria is a highly walkable city and is filled with blocks of historic brick houses and similar attractions. For a touch of culture, head to the Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site, or to the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

Annapolis

Address: Maryland (MD)
Capital of Maryland and situated only 37 miles / 60 km away, Annapolis lies directly to the northeast of Washington DC and Arlington. Boasting an undeniable colonial heritage and miles of beautiful waterfront, Annapolis offers a great selection of water-based attractions, with sailing being a particular magnet for visitors. The Maryland State House is perhaps the most notable landmark in Annapolis, while the United States Naval Academy is another eye-catching building.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Baltimore

Address: Maryland (MD)
A vibrant Maryland city with an appealing mixture of old and new buildings, Baltimore is divided into a series of charming neighborhoods, such as Federal Hill, Little Italy and Mount Vernon. The Inner Harbor area of the city is where the highest concentration of attractions are sited. The National Aquarium and Maryland Zoo are two very good reasons to travel the 45 miles / 72 km to Baltimore.

Fredericksburg

Standing directly south of Arlington and a little more than 50 miles / 80 km away, Fredericksburg has grown up around the Rappahannock River and is very proud of its distinguished history. Famous English sailor Captain John Smith visited Fredericksburg over 400 years ago, George Washington (America's first president) spent his childhood here, and James Monroe (America's fifth president) practiced law here before moving onto politics.

Great Falls

A pleasant and attractive regional town, Great Falls is 17 miles / 27 km to the northeast of Arlington and a great place to escape from busy city life for the day. The Great Falls Park is the main draw card here and provides some awesome views across the Great Falls of the Potomac River - the area's namesake. River Bend County Park is another attraction in Great Falls, along with the Village Green, where some enjoyable seasonal celebrations are staged during public holidays.

Manassas

A small city famed for its rich Civil War heritage, Manassas is to be found some 27 miles / 43 km to the west of Arlington and has an undeniable tourist appeal. Old Town Manassas is the place to begin exploring the city's attractions, although families tend to come here to spend time at the Splashdown water park, which comes complete with a winding lazy river, numerous water slides, fountains, and the 'Big Kahuna Beach'.

Springfield

Considered by many to be a suburb of Washington DC, Springfield is situated around 11 miles / 18 km to the southwest of Arlington and has an interesting history, being established in 1847 as a station along the Orange and Alexandria Railroad. Today, most people come here to shop, with the Springfield Mall being known for its flagship stores of JCPenney, Macy's and Target. Of note, Lake Accotink is within easy reach of Springfield.

Washington (District of Columbia - DC)

The national capital and home of the president of the United States, Washington DC is located a mere 5 miles / 8 km to the east of Arlington and so day trips here are simple to organize. Number one on most sightseeing itineraries is a trip to Pennsylvania Avenue to check out the White House. On the Mall, the Washington Monument is another famous landmark, as is the Jefferson Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial. Art lovers should also make time to explore the Washington National Gallery of Art and its extensive sculpture garden.