Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
North America
United States
Texas
Tarrant County

Arlington

Attractions and Places To See around Arlington - Top 17

Best attractions and places to see around Arlington include a blend of historical landmarks, natural spaces, and cultural sites. Located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., the area offers a variety of experiences for visitors. It features significant historical sites, serene natural preserves, and vibrant cultural points of interest.

Best attractions and places to see around Arlington

  • The most popular attraction is Cattail Pond, a lake that is a beautiful body of water in the Cedar Ridge…

Last updated: May 5, 2026

Bluebonnet Trail

Highlight • Trail

The Bluebonnet Trail is one of the fantastic footpaths in the Cedar Ridge Preserve. Despite being so close to Dallas, it really feels like you are out in the country …

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Cattail Pond

Highlight • Lake

Cattail Pond is a beautiful body of water in the Cedar Ridge Preserve. It can be accessed via the Cattail Pond Trail or the Fossil Valley Trail. It's a gloriously …

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

River Legacy Trail East

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

This well-maintained paved trail guides you along Lake Viridian and through River Legacy Park. It offers ample shade and provides breathtaking views of both the lake and the river. Be …

Tip by

Save

Cedar Brake Trail

Highlight • Trail

An undulating trail in the Cedar Ridge Preserve, the Cedar Brake Trail is wonderful for viewing the local birdlife. Approximately halfway around, there's a side trail that leads to a …

Tip by

Save

Lake Viridian

Highlight • Lake

This lake boasts a network of well-maintained trails that meander along its shores, providing stunning water views. Visitors can also enjoy various water activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. …

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Arlington.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Arlington

Hiking around Arlington

MTB Trails around Arlington

Running Trails around Arlington

Road Cycling Routes around Arlington

Cycling around Arlington

Tips from the Community

Tyler Sanders
May 23, 2025, River Legacy Trail East

This well-maintained paved trail guides you along Lake Viridian and through River Legacy Park. It offers ample shade and provides breathtaking views of both the lake and the river. Be vigilant for wildlife, as there have been sightings of bobcats in the area.

0

0

This lake boasts a network of well-maintained trails that meander along its shores, providing stunning water views. Visitors can also enjoy various water activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. The award-winning Viridian Sailing Center, located in the area, hosts a variety of events and activities for sailing enthusiasts.

0

0

An undulating trail in the Cedar Ridge Preserve, the Cedar Brake Trail is wonderful for viewing the local birdlife. Approximately halfway around, there's a side trail that leads to a superb overlook for the forest. Bear in mind that there are no water stations other than at the start of the trail.

1

0

The Bluebonnet Trail is one of the fantastic trail running options in the Cedar Ridge Preserve. Despite being so close to Dallas, it really feels like you are out in the country when running this superb limestone escarpment. The trail is named after the state flower of Texas, the purple Bluebonnet.

0

0

The Bluebonnet Trail is one of the fantastic footpaths in the Cedar Ridge Preserve. Despite being so close to Dallas, it really feels like you are out in the country when exploring this superb limestone escarpment. The trail is named after the state flower of Texas, the purple Bluebonnet.

0

0

Alex Foxfield
September 5, 2022, Cattail Pond

Cattail Pond is a beautiful body of water in the Cedar Ridge Preserve. It can be accessed by running the Cattail Pond Trail or the Fossil Valley Trail. It's a gloriously colorful place in spring with wildflowers and butterflies, as well as other mammals, insects, birds and reptiles.

0

0

Alex Foxfield
September 5, 2022, Cattail Pond

Cattail Pond is a beautiful body of water in the Cedar Ridge Preserve. It can be accessed via the Cattail Pond Trail or the Fossil Valley Trail. It's a gloriously colorful place in spring with wildflowers and butterflies, as well as other mammals, insects, birds and reptiles.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular natural attractions around Arlington?

Arlington offers a variety of natural spaces. You can explore Cattail Pond, a beautiful body of water known for wildflowers and wildlife, or hike the Bluebonnet Trail, which provides a country feel despite its urban proximity. Another popular spot is Cedar Brake Trail, great for birdwatching and forest views.

Are there family-friendly outdoor activities in Arlington?

Yes, Arlington has several family-friendly options. Cattail Pond is noted as family-friendly, offering opportunities to see wildflowers and various animals. River Legacy Trail East and Lake Viridian also feature well-maintained trails and water activities suitable for families.

What historical landmarks can I visit in Arlington?

While the komoot highlights focus on natural trails, Arlington, Virginia, is rich in historical landmarks. You can visit Arlington National Cemetery, the Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial), The Pentagon, and the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial. For local history, explore the Arlington Historical Museum or the Ball-Sellers House, the oldest structure in Arlington.

Where can I go hiking near Arlington?

Arlington offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find trails like the Bluebonnet Trail and Cedar Brake Trail within the Cedar Ridge Preserve. For more options, explore the Hiking around Arlington guide, which includes routes like the River Legacy Park loop and the Lake Viridian loop.

Are there good places for cycling or mountain biking?

Absolutely. The River Legacy Trail East is a well-maintained paved trail suitable for cycling. For mountain biking, check out the MTB Trails around Arlington guide, featuring routes like the DOBRA Trail loop. Cyclists can also find options in the Cycling around Arlington guide, including the Workman Park to Fish Creek Linear Park loop.

What are some scenic viewpoints in the area?

Many trails and parks offer scenic views. The Bluebonnet Trail and Cedar Brake Trail both feature viewpoints. River Legacy Trail East and Lake Viridian provide breathtaking views of the lake and river. Additionally, the Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial) offers iconic views of the Washington Monument and U.S. Capitol.

Can I bring my dog to attractions in Arlington?

Yes, several attractions are dog-friendly. Cattail Pond, River Legacy Trail East, and Lake Viridian are all noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion.

What cultural sites are there in Arlington?

Beyond historical sites, Arlington, Virginia, has a vibrant cultural scene. You can visit the Military Women's Memorial, the Black Heritage Museum of Arlington, or explore the numerous public art installations throughout the county. Areas like Shirlington and Clarendon are known for dining and theater experiences, including the award-winning Signature Theatre.

Are there any lakes or rivers to explore?

Yes, Cattail Pond is a beautiful lake within the Cedar Ridge Preserve. You can also explore Lake Viridian, which offers trails along its shores and opportunities for water activities like kayaking. The Potomac River, bordering Arlington, Virginia, also provides scenic views and recreational opportunities.

What do visitors enjoy most about Arlington's natural areas?

Visitors particularly enjoy the feeling of being immersed in nature despite the proximity to urban areas. For instance, the Bluebonnet Trail offers a 'country feel' with its limestone escarpment. Cattail Pond is appreciated for its 'gloriously colorful' spring wildflowers and diverse wildlife.

Are there any parks with unique features?

Yes, Arlington, Virginia, features unique parks like Theodore Roosevelt Island, an 88.5-acre wilderness preserve in the Potomac River with walking trails and a memorial. Gravelly Point Park is popular for plane-spotting near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, while Potomac Overlook Regional Park offers panoramic views of the Potomac River and D.C. skyline.

What is the best time to visit Arlington for outdoor activities?

Spring and fall are generally ideal for outdoor activities in Arlington, Virginia, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings wildflowers to places like Cattail Pond, while fall offers vibrant foliage in parks and along trails like the Mount Vernon Trail.

Most popular routes around Arlington

Easy hikes around Arlington

Most popular attractions around Arlington

Lakes

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

Fort WorthSansom ParkWhite SettlementRiver OaksWestover HillsWestworth VillageBenbrookHaltom CityGrapevineForest HillSaginawLake WorthNorth Richland HillsSouthlakeEdgecliff VillageColleyvilleWestlakeBlue MoundHurstEulessBedfordLakesideKellerRichland HillsWataugaAzleHasletFort Worth Nature Center & Wildlife RefugePelican BayPantegoMansfieldCrowleyPecan Acres

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Pantego

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy