What's New in Arlington?
Get ready to embark on an exciting Arlington adventure!
This year has brought a wave of unique attractions, mouthwatering restaurants and more to this already buzzing destination. From a thrilling revamped water park, to astounding art installations, and more there's no doubt that it's all in Arlington!
Below are some of Arlington's newest additions!
Metropolitan Park
This May Amazon opened the first phase of its second headquarters - Metropolitan Park in National Landing. This development is located at the intersection of 15th and Eads Streets and features two 22-story sustainably designed office towers (named Jasper and Merlin) with neighborhood retail, and acres of public park space.
Met Park is also home to 14 vibrant small businesses including a variety of local-favorite restaurants and retailers including Conte's Bike Shop, District Dogs, HUSTLE Fitness, Good Company Doughnuts & Cafe, Peruvian Brothers and more.
In addition, visitors to Met Park can also view a new sculpture titled Queen City by Nekisha Durrett. This sculpture confronts the 1941 seizure of Black-owned land by the federal government for the construction of the Pentagon, a story that is not often talked about as part of Arlington’s history. The piece features a 35-foot-tall brick tower which includes 903 ceramic vessels in the shape and color of a drop of water representing each individual that lived in Queen City and made by Black ceramicists from the local area and beyond.
Crystal City Water Park
This new attraction is making a splash in Arlington! The newly transformed Crystal City Water Park features captivating water features, an outdoor water bar, and plenty of dining options.
The 1.6-acre park will also include a performance stage, public art and a trailhead adjacent to Mt. Vernon Trail. Chef Enrique Limardo (owner of Michelin-starred restaurant Imperfecto) is opening his own dining concept named Surreal. There's also something for every palette with a variety of other eateries opening at the park including DC Dosa, Falafel Inc, Cracked Eggery, Queen Mother's Fried Chicken and more.
ParCiti Golf
It's tee time in Arlington! Hit the (virtual) greens and ParCiti Golf on Columbia Pike, a state-of-the-art golf simulator. ParCiti offers golf aficionados a place to practice their swings at a variety of famous golf courses while enjoying delicious food and drinks! They also offer PGA Professional private and semi-private golf lessons, bookings for group events and more.
Reclining Liberty at Museum of Contemporary Art, Arlington
Come chill with Lady Liberty! Reclining Liberty by Zaq Landsberg is one of Arlington's newest pieces of public art. Presented in partnership by the Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA) Arlington and Arlington Public Art this astonishing 25-foot-long sculpture will be displayed at MoCA Arlington's front lawn through July 28, 2024.
Reclining Liberty takes inspiration from the giant reclining Buddha statues of Asia, which represent the Buddha in one stage on the path to enlightenment and are a theme throughout Buddhist art. By merging the traditional Buddhist reclining pose and the quintessential American figurative symbol, Reclining Liberty asks the viewer to contemplate the status of the ideals the Statue of Liberty represents. Stop by to admire this unique piece of art!
New Restaurants
Ballstonian Coffee Cart
This charming and innovative coffee cart has been serving the Ballston neighborhood since June of this year. It is owned and operated by Isa Seyran, a filmmaker and restaurant industry veteran. Stop by to enjoy delicious Turkish coffee and scrumptious baklava. Bring along your pup for a special treat, a bone-shaped "barklava"!
The Filling Station
A brand-new live music venue is stepping into the spotlight in Ballston. Make your way to The Filling Station, an intimate performance spot with room for 50. Nestled right next to the vibrant taco haven and margarita paradise, El Rey, Filling Station opened its doors on August 11. Be sure to stay tuned for upcoming shows at this exciting new venue!
Chicken + Whiskey
Chicken and whiskey - What's not to love? This D.C.-based Peruvian chicken joint opened their fourth location in Arlington's Clarendon neighborhood this year. The aptly named eatery is known for their uniquely flavored rotisserie chicken, as well as their expansive whiskey bar.
Sabores Tapas
Make your way to Columbia Pike to experience Spanish and Latin flavors at Sabores Tapas. Their mission revolves around crafting a haven where both friends and families can indulge in scrumptious tapas. Stop by and dig into their delicious menu!
Coco B’s
Get a taste of the tropics at Coco B's in Clarendon! This "Instagram-worthy" spot will serve as a restaurant offering Caribbean-inspired food, a live entertainment venue and a rooftop bar. Enjoy one of their signature cocktails and be sure to snap a pic with their colorful interior!
Our Mom Eugenia
This family-owned restaurant opened up its third location in Shirlington this year. Our Mom Eugenia has become a staple in the area, serving flavorful authentic Greek cuisine, craft cocktails and more.
Mpanadas
This South American-inspired cafe opened a new location on Columbia Pike this June. Mpanadas invites you to take on a flavorful adventure. Whether you dine in with friends or savor their empanadas in the comfort of your home, they promise an experience that will leave you craving for more!
Z Burger
This legendary Washington D.C. fast-casual eatery has opened a location in Arlington! Z Burger's new location in Crystal City (National Landing) features their tried and true menu of burgers, hot dogs, cheesesteaks, fries, and shakes. You can't go wrong with a classic!
Chase the Submarine
Chef Tim Ma's popular sandwich shop has made a comeback! After closing his shop in Vienna, Chase the Submarine is now open in Westpost (formerly Pentagon Row). This joint offers subs stuffed with fillings like bulgogi, plus charcuterie, wine and beer.
For more info on Arlington's ever-expanding food scene, check out our Food & Drink page.