ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA - 5 miles from D.C.
Just across the Potomac River from D.C., Arlington is an integral
part of the Washington metropolitan area. It’s home to several
important national memorials, as well as a vibrant mix of
neighborhoods — including bustling Rosslyn, stylish Clarendon,
and booming Crystal City (the location of Amazon’s planned HQ2,
which breaks ground in early 2020).
To reflect on American history and sacrifice, visit Arlington National
Cemetery, the final resting place for more than 400,000 active
duty service members, veterans, and their families. Rows of white
headstones stretch across acres of rolling hills, an impactful visual
reminder of the many men and women who gave their lives for our
country. Visitors shouldn’t miss the changing of the guard at the
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame at the President
John F. Kennedy Gravesite.
Nearby, the United States Marine Corps War Memorial depicts the
Pulitzer Prize–winning image of World War II soldiers raising the
American flag at Iwo Jima. The poignant National 9/11 Pentagon
Arlington National Cemetery
Credit: Neon Vine Photography
Memorial (closed until late May 2020 for repairs) and the soaring
Air Force Memorial are important reminders of American resilience.
After visiting Arlington’s memorials, explore its lively restaurant and
nightlife scene. One local favorite is Ambar Clarendon, which serves
modern Balkan cuisine and wines in a bright, airy setting with lush
vines draping from tall planters. Its unlimited-small-plates specials are a
perfect way to taste a variety of dishes. Don’t miss its cozy underground
bar, Baba, for creative cocktails like the Baba Beets (made with rum,
beet juice, lime, maraschino liqueur, and mint) and Same Same But
Different (with pisco, crème de violette, lime, and ginger beer).
OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND - 146 miles from D.C.
This vibrant beach destination is a favorite getaway for D.C. locals.
With a three-mile wooden boardwalk dotted with fresh seafood
restaurants, souvenir shops, and stands selling saltwater taffy and ice
cream, it’s a nostalgic place for kids of all ages.
Catch a gull’s-eye view of the beach from the Ferris wheel or roller
coaster at Jolly Roger at the Pier. Daredevils can take on the park’s
Slingshot, which catapults them into the air. Also on the boardwalk,
Ambar Clarendon
Glenstone Museum
Credit: Ted Eytan
FLYWASHINGTON.COM 60 SPRING 2020