Across the Potomac River from Arlington, Virginia, the capital of the United States, it is an urban community with a long history and full of unique attractions. In addition to famous landmarks like Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon, Arlington is home to a wealth of fascinating facts and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this Redfin article, we’ll uncover interesting facts about Arlington that make this city a destination worth exploring.
Interested in moving to Arlington? Check:
Apartments for Rent in Arlington, VA | Arlington, VA Houses for Rent | Arlington, VA Homes for Sale
Basic information about Arlington
| Median home sales price | $772,500 |
| average monthly rent | $2,165 |
| walk score | 71/100 |
| traffic score | 59/100 |
| bike score | 72/100 |
1. Arlington was originally part of Washington, D.C.
A portion of the 10-mile square of land originally designated as the nation’s capital in Arlington, Virginia, was ceded to Virginia in 1846.
2. The city is named after George Washington’s adopted son
Arlington takes its name from Arlington House, a historic mansion located on a hilltop overlooking the Potomac River. The home was originally owned by George Washington Parke Custis, George Washington’s adopted son.
3. Both presidents are buried in Arlington
Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place of two former U.S. presidents, John F. Kennedy and William Howard Taft. Their gravesites are marked by iconic monuments that serve as poignant reminders of their enduring legacy and contributions to American history.
4. There is a gas station under a church in the city.
An interesting fact about Arlington is that it is home to a gas station located beneath the historic St. Thomas More Cathedral. This unconventional arrangement was born out of compromise. However, as the city grew, there were plans to demolish the site, including the famous Sunoco gas station.
5. Home to the largest military cemetery in the United States
Spanning more than 600 acres, Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place of thousands of service members, veterans and celebrities, commemorating their sacrifices and contributions to our country.
method: Median home sales price and average monthly rent data come from the Redfin Data Center. Walk Score, Transit Score, and Bike Score data are derived from Walk Score.
