Things to do in Arlington

Arlington sits just across the Potomac from the National Mall, 15-30 minutes from downtown Washington by Metro or car, and most visitors come for one reason: Arlington National Cemetery. Entry on foot is free, but vehicle access is restricted, so plan to walk.

The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier runs on a fixed schedule throughout the day, not on demand, so check the time before you arrive. Reaching JFK's grave and Arlington House means a genuine uphill walk of roughly 20-30 minutes each way from the visitor center, or a paid shuttle tram if you'd rather skip the climb.

Beyond the cemetery, Arlington is also a working city of high-rises, restaurants and offices along the river, most of which sits closer to the northern-virginia suburbs covered elsewhere.