Things to Do During a Layover at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

Fashion Centre at Pentagon City

1.9 miles by car/2 Metro stops on the blue line

Fashion Centre at Pentagon City offers a world-class shopping, dining and hospitality experience with direct connection to the Metro. In addition to the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Fashion Centre’s stellar lineup of retailers includes national and international favorites like Apple, Zara, MAC, Lululemon, Warby Parker, Tourneau, Nordstrom, Macy’s, and more. Just remember, you'll have to be able to fit all of your new goodies in your suitcase!

DEA Museum

2 miles by car/2 Metro stops on the blue line

If you packed light, the DEA Museum in Pentagon City could be an interesting way to pass some time. This museum has grown from one special agent’s collection of narcotics law enforcement badges into an exciting interactive learning environment filled with compelling artifacts, hands-on activities and personal histories that underscore DEA’s commitment to keeping Americans safe from dangerous drugs. It's important to note that all visitors 18+ are required to show REAL IDs, bags are subject to search, and certain items are prohibited in federal facilities.

Westpost at National Landing

2.1 miles by car/2 Metro stops on the blue line

Westpost at National Landing is a vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with a unique combination of specialty retailers, exciting restaurants, and amenities. This outdoor, walkable shopping center features dozens of specialty shops like LOFT, TJ Maxx, Target, and DSW, as well as an ice-skating rink in the winter. Eat inside, outside or fireside at a variety of delicious restaurants.

National Landing Water Park

1.1 miles by car/1 Metro stop on the blue line/possible to walk

Right down the street from DCA, National Landing Water Park is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings in between flights. With two full-service restaurants and a collection of grab-and-go food stalls, Water Park is the ideal spot to relax in a gorgeous outdoor setting with a unique and delicious meal.

Arlington National Cemetery

3.4 miles from DCA by car/4 Metro stops on the blue line

Arlington National Cemetery is the tranquil resting place for more than 400,000 active-duty service members, veterans and their families. “Service to country” is the common thread that binds all who are honored and remembered here. There are many notable memorials and grave sites including the Tomb of the Unknown Solider, the Challenger Space Shuttle Memorial, and the grave sites of John F. and Robert Kennedy. Make time to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Solider and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, performed by the U.S. Honor Guard. Tours of the cemetery are available onsite, and trolley tickets can be purchased from the visitor center (it's an extensive walk if you don't choose to take the trolley).

Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington

6.1 miles from DCA by car/7 Metro stops on the blue and orange or silver lines

The Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington in Virginia Square includes nine exhibition galleries, working studios for twelve artists, and three classrooms. At 17,000 square feet, the museum is one of the largest non-federal venues for contemporary art in the Washington metropolitan area. While you're in the neighborhood, you can also check out the many shopping and dining options at nearby Ballston Quarter or The Crossing Clarendon. Looking for more art? Try Arlington's self-guided public art walking tour to get some steps in and appreciate more art installations!

The Netherlands Carillon/Marine Corps War Memorial

3.6 miles from DCA by car/5 Metro stops on the blue line

Head over to Arlington's Rosslyn neighborhood and visit the Netherlands Carillon, the Marine Corps War Memorial, and grab a meal from a nearby restaurant while you're there. The Netherlands Carillon was a gift from the Dutch people in gratitude for U.S. aid given during World War II. The tower features 50 bells of the hanging in an open steel tower, which play various patriotic tunes at set times. The carillon's peaceful setting, with its floral libraries and sculpted lions, is the perfect place to listen to the music of the bells. The Marine Corps War Memorial is one of the largest cast bronze sculptures in the world with its 32-foot-high figures sitting atop gilded granite base. The magnificent memorial was based on an iconic, Pulitzer Prize winning photo of the second flag-raising on the island of Iwo Jima during World War II. While the statue depicts one of the most famous incidents of World War II, the memorial is dedicated to all Marines who have given their lives in defense of the United States since 1775.

The Mount Vernon Trail/Gravelly Point Park

1.7 miles from DCA by car/possible to walk from DCA

Gravelly Point Park is a primary intersection of boaters, cyclists, and airplane-spotters. Its unique location just a few hundred feet from the north end of DCA's runway 1/19 makes it one of the best spots in the United States for airplane-spotting. Bring a picnic lunch from a nearby restaurant and explore beautiful scenic views. Looking to get active? Rent a bike from Capital Bikeshare or lace up your running shoes to hike/bike the nearby 18-mile-long Mount Vernon Trail!

The Village at Shirlington

6 miles from DCA by car

At the Village at Shirlington, see a beloved Main Street of picturesque, wide brick sidewalks that are perfect for strolling and dining al fresco. See a play at Tony Award®-winning Signature Theatre or an art-house film at the AMC theater. Then, choose from more than 20 restaurants with cuisines including Indian, Hawaiian, Irish, Japanese, Chinese, Mexican, Thai, American and more!