Arlington Virginia, a national treasure trove of historic sites and museums, is directly across the Potomac River from Washington DC. It was originally part of the land slated to be part of our nations capital, but was returned to the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1846. Once known as Alexandria County, it became Arlington County in 1920.
One of its most famous sites is Arlington National Cemetery. Over four million people visit Arlington National Cemetery each year. It is most popular for the site of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Dedicated in 1932 with its famous inscription, “Here Rests in Honored Glory An American Soldier Known but to God,” the tomb is a somber reminder of the soldiers that have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The Memorial Amphitheater is the home of the tomb and is the site of Memorial day and Veterans day celebrations. All American presidents since the 20th century have presided over ceremonies in the Memorial Amphitheater.
Most people who visit Arlington National Cemetery enjoy the forty-minute bus tour that makes its way through the fifteen miles of roads stopping at various locations. The places you want to make sure you don’t miss are the Kennedy gravesites, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Arlington House. Arlington House was the home of Robert E. Lee and his family for 30 years. It is open year round 9:30 am to 4:30 PM. The Robert E. Lee museum, located at Arlington House is open from 8:00 am to 4:30 PM.
Another stop in Arlington National Cemetery is the Women in Military Service for America Memorial. It is located at the Ceremonial Entrance to Arlington. This monument gives tribute to women who served in the defense of America from the time of the American Revolution to today. There is an education center as well as the memorial that features artifacts and memorabilia, some of which has never been seen before. There is also a computerized register that contains the stories of 350,000 military women.
At South Courthouse Road is the site of Arlington Radio Towers. This significant site is important because it is the location of the first trans-Atlantic voice communication in 1915. Constructed in 1913 it is also the first time in history where the word “radio” was used as opposed to the traditional “wireless”.
The Pentagon Office Building Complex is a must see for government buffs. On Jefferson Davis Highway it is the largest office building in the world. It is the home of the Department of Defense and is across the Potomac from Washington DC Tours are available to schools and groups by reservation only. Contact the Pentagon for more information about touring.
In 1891 the Hume School was built and became the oldest school building in Arlington County. When it closed for renovations in the early 1960’s it reopened as the Arlington Historical Museum. It is a state landmark and is also on the National Register of Historic Sites. It is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays, year round, except February.
The Arlington Arts Center at 3550 Wilson Blvd., presents and exhibits artists from the region. A must see for any art lover. The museum strives to showcase regional artists and bring an appreciation for the arts to the public.
The DEA Museum and Visitors Center is dedicated to drugs, drug abuse and law enforcement. It strives to educate the public by displaying exhibits such as an illegal crack house and an opium den. The DEA Museum also educates about drugs in the present day. Located at 700 Army Navy Drive in Pentagon City it is open to the public free of charge.
This is a brief list of the many attractions to be seen in Arlington Virginia. Some others that you may want to check out are:
Ball-Sellers House at 5620 South Third Street. It is a perfect example of an ordinarypersons home in the 1700’s.
Fort C.F. Smith at 2411 24th Street. Home of the Hendry House, which is a restored mansion that is used for business meeting, weddings and other functions.
Fort C.F. Smith Park is a beautiful park that offers a spectacular view of Washington DC from it’s lovely tree lined park.
LBJ Memorial Grove, George Washington Memorial Parkway, is a scenic spot for picnics and bicyclists to enjoy the beauty of Virginia.
