Nestled just across the Potomac River from Washington D.C., Arlington, Virginia is often seen as a bustling, urban city full of history and culture. However, what many visitors might not know is that Arlington also boasts some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the region. From verdant parks to tranquil river views, Arlington offers a wealth of outdoor destinations that allow visitors to escape the urban hustle and immerse themselves in nature. In this article, I’ll share some of the best spots in Arlington to experience its incredible natural beauty, complete with personal experiences, travel tips, and recommendations for how to make the most of each site.
1. Roosevelt Island – A Tranquil Escape in the Heart of the City
Location: Located just off the George Washington Parkway, accessible by foot from the Rosslyn metro station or by kayak along the Potomac River.
If you’re seeking a quiet and serene spot to escape from the hustle and bustle of Arlington, Roosevelt Island is a must-visit. This 88-acre nature reserve is situated on the Potomac River and offers lush trails, scenic views, and peaceful spots for contemplation. What makes Roosevelt Island stand out is its isolation — while it’s so close to the city, it feels like you’ve stepped into a completely different world.
Walking along the trails, I was immediately struck by how peaceful the island felt. The Forest Trail takes you through a beautiful wooded area, filled with towering trees that create a canopy, casting dappled light on the path below. You can also walk along the riverfront to take in stunning views of the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Kennedy Center across the river. It’s a lovely spot for birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying a picnic.
What to Do & Tips:
- Activities: Hike, birdwatch, or just relax on the riverbanks.
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons, particularly during the spring and fall months when the foliage is most vibrant.
- Cost: Free entry, though you may need to pay for parking at nearby sites.
- Memorable Souvenirs: Since Roosevelt Island is relatively untouched, there aren’t traditional souvenir shops, but you can find some locally made hiking gear or nature photography prints from nearby stores in Arlington.
- Travel Tip: I recommend visiting Roosevelt Island on a weekday if you want to avoid crowds, as weekends tend to attract more visitors.
2. Theodore Roosevelt Island Park
Location: Just off the George Washington Parkway near Rosslyn, accessible via the George Washington Memorial Parkway.
A natural complement to the Roosevelt Island, Theodore Roosevelt Island Park offers yet another green space dedicated to the legacy of one of America’s most beloved Presidents. This 88-acre island was transformed into a memorial to Theodore Roosevelt, featuring a statue of Roosevelt himself, surrounded by lush woodland and meadows.
What I particularly enjoyed here was the walking loop around the island, which provided incredible views of the Potomac River. The island’s memorial plaza is a perfect spot for reflection, with a large statue of Roosevelt standing proudly in front of a serene waterfall. The trails are an easy and accessible way to explore the park, and they are well-maintained for leisurely walks or runs. In addition, the park features lovely wildflower meadows in the spring, making it a colorful experience for nature lovers.
What to Do & Tips:
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife observation, photography, and learning about Roosevelt’s life.
- Cost: Free, but donations are appreciated.
- Memorable Souvenirs: There are no souvenir shops on the island, but you can pick up a book on Roosevelt or local wildlife from Arlington’s bookstores.
- Travel Tip: If you visit during the spring or summer, pack a picnic to enjoy on the island’s scenic benches by the river.
3. Arlington National Cemetery – A Place of Peace and Beauty
Location: 1 Memorial Avenue, Arlington, VA.
While Arlington National Cemetery is undoubtedly one of the most solemn and historical sites in the area, it’s also a place of remarkable natural beauty. The cemetery’s lush landscaping and tranquil surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for reflection. As I walked through the rolling hills of Arlington National Cemetery, I was moved not only by the significance of the site but also by the natural scenery surrounding me.
The cemetery is spread across 624 acres of land, with rows of white gravestones stretching across perfectly manicured lawns. There are also several memorials that are surrounded by trees, flowers, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The elevated vantage points throughout the cemetery offer spectacular views of Washington D.C., the Potomac River, and the National Mall.
What to Do & Tips:
- Activities: Explore the memorials, visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and walk the serene grounds.
- Cost: Free entry; guided tours are available for a fee.
- Memorable Souvenirs: Consider buying a commemorative item like a book or a keepsake pin from the Arlington National Cemetery Visitor Center.
- Travel Tip: If you want to avoid crowds, I recommend visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Keep in mind that the cemetery is still an active military cemetery, so some sections might be closed for special ceremonies.
4. Glencarlyn Park – A Hidden Gem for Nature Enthusiasts
Location: 301 S. Harrison Street, Arlington, VA.
Glencarlyn Park is one of Arlington’s best-kept secrets, and I absolutely loved it. This park is a peaceful, forested area that offers a beautiful escape from the city. The park has a small stream running through it, which adds to its charm. The Glencarlyn Stream Trail takes you through a densely wooded area, providing a great spot for nature walks and picnics. The park is also home to various species of birds and small wildlife, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
I also recommend visiting the park in the spring, when the wildflowers are in full bloom and the forest is lush and green. It’s a quiet, tranquil place to reflect, meditate, or just take a break from your busy schedule.
What to Do & Tips:
- Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking by the stream.
- Cost: Free.
- Memorable Souvenirs: The area doesn’t have souvenir shops, but it’s a great spot for nature photography, so I recommend bringing a camera to capture the beauty of the park.
- Travel Tip: Glencarlyn Park is perfect for a secluded picnic or an afternoon walk. Since it’s less well-known, it’s often not crowded, allowing for a peaceful experience.
5. Marymount University’s Ballston Campus – A Peaceful Urban Retreat
Location: 2807 N. Glebe Rd., Arlington, VA.
Located just outside the Ballston area, Marymount University’s Ballston Campus features a beautiful campus garden that offers a peaceful retreat from the urban environment. The university’s well-maintained grounds are often overlooked, but they are home to a variety of native plants, ornamental trees, and tranquil walking paths.
During my visit, I took the time to sit by the reflecting pool, which provided a serene atmosphere for reflection and relaxation. It’s a hidden oasis that offers a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or studying in nature. The campus is open to the public, and I enjoyed taking a stroll around its peaceful grounds.
What to Do & Tips:
- Activities: Relax in the garden, walk the campus, or enjoy the greenery.
- Cost: Free.
- Memorable Souvenirs: While there are no shops on campus, you can purchase items like college apparel or educational materials from the Marymount University bookstore.
- Travel Tip: The campus is peaceful and accessible, so it’s a great place to visit if you need a moment of peace amidst the city life.
6. Four Mile Run Park – Connecting Nature with the Urban Landscape
Location: 4100 Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA.
Four Mile Run Park is a scenic and versatile outdoor space that offers both urban and natural beauty. The park follows the Four Mile Run stream and offers several miles of walking and biking trails that wind through parks, wetlands, and alongside the stream. It’s a great spot to enjoy a walk while being surrounded by nature.
The park’s multi-use trail also connects to other local parks, making it an excellent option for those wanting to explore Arlington’s natural scenery by bike or on foot. The park is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, and I’ve enjoyed biking along the trail, spotting wildlife along the way.
What to Do & Tips:
- Activities: Biking, walking, wildlife watching, and photography.
- Cost: Free.
- Memorable Souvenirs: There are no souvenir shops, but you can pick up a local map of the trails from Arlington’s Visitor Center or nearby local businesses.
- Travel Tip: The trail gets busier on weekends, so I recommend visiting during the weekday mornings or afternoons for a quieter experience.
Booking Your Arlington Adventure
For your convenience, I recommend using Viator for booking tours, Airbnb for lodging, and Expedia for flight bookings to make your stay in Arlington as smooth as possible. Each of these platforms provides excellent options for finding the best deals on accommodations, tickets, and experiences in Arlington, ensuring that you can spend more time enjoying the scenery and less time worrying about the logistics.
With so many stunning natural attractions to explore, Arlington is truly a hidden gem for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking through wooded trails, sitting by the river, or simply soaking in the views, this vibrant city offers a chance to connect with nature in a way that few urban destinations can match.
