Arlington Magazine Issue - Arlington Magazine

Escape to This Stunning 1893 Mansion in Staunton, VA

The Historic Inn at Oakdene is home to lush gardens and beautifully preserved Queen Anne-style architecture.

Are Your Gardening Choices Hurting Arlington’s Ecosystem?

Many nonnative yard plantings do more harm than good to local wildlife. Here's what to plant and what to avoid.

Tales of a National Geographic Photographer

Bruce Dale's 40-year photography career sent him around the world. His Arlington attic is filled with souvenirs.

Why New Homes in Arlington Keep Getting More Expensive

The county's median single-family home price has doubled in 14 years. The economics are more complex than you might think.

Muffaletta Is the Star of This Del Ray Sandwich Shop

Chef Nathan Anda serves up six satisfying renditions of the New Orleans classic at Shorty's Deluxe on Mount Vernon Ave.

Check Out the Art at The Royal Sonesta Hotel on Capitol Hill

Works on display throughout the property include homages to RBG, Martin Luther King Jr., cherry blossoms and D.C.'s famed Tidal Basin beaver.

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The Smashburgers at Jon’s Joint in Buckingham Are Smashing

Our dining critic gives this homegrown burger joint in Arlington's Buckingham neighborhood two thumbs up.

Church Redevelopment Ignites New ‘Missing Middle’ Fight in Arlington, VA

Faith-based redevelopment projects are changing the landscape and raising questions about infrastructure and community values.

Take the Kids to This Charming West Virginia Mountain Town

Tiny Thomas, West Virginia, is a perfect launch point for outdoor adventures in Canaan Valley and Dolly Sods.

Neighborhood Real Estate Guide – Arlington, McLean and Falls Church, VA

Looking to buy or sell a home in Arlington, McLean or Falls Church? Here are the latest sales trends in 400+ neighborhoods.

Restaurant Review: Modan in Tysons

This luxe, new hideaway for Japanese fine-dining, sushi and omakase tasting menus is worthy of a celebration.

Get Away: Pendry Natirar in Somerset County, NJ

Once home to Moroccan royalty, this posh estate occupies 500 acres of rolling hills with luxe accommodations, a spa and a sustainable farm.

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Mansion on the Hill

Weekend Away: Blue Rock in Virginia Wine Country

Escape to this Rappahannock County inn for beautiful scenery, time with friends and memorable food by a star chef.

A Serene Home Makeover in Lyon Village

Soothing colors and elegant furnishings have a calming effect in this 1938 Tudor bungalow.

Honoring the ‘Grandfather of Black Basketball’

Basketball was a White-dominated sport until pioneering player and coach Edwin B. Henderson changed the game.

This Old House: A Love Story

Crime, punishment and architectural appreciation in a small town.

Get Away: The Publisher Hotel

Treat yourself to a literary sojourn at this publishing-themed hotel in Fredericksburg's historic downtown.

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This Luxe Bathroom Remodel Sets a New Gold Standard

Green and gold accents strike an opulent tone in this spa-like bathroom makeover in Falls Church.

Our Dining Critic Went Nuts For This Pistachio Latte

At MQR Cafe in Falls Church, you'll also find Middle Eastern flavors in everything from kunafa French toast to a New York bodega-style chopped cheese sandwich.

A Place for Knitters and Fiber Artists

Want to turn yarn, fabric or thrifted duds into something original? TINT Makerspace can teach you how.

Having the Tough Conversations About End-of-Life Planning

No one likes to think about the last chapter. But not being prepared for the inevitable makes the hard parts even harder.

Craving Paella? You’ve Got Take-Home Options

SER in Ballston offers several prepared versions of the classic Spanish rice dish for reheating, as well as make-your-own kits. Paella pan included.

Tales From the West Wing

Presidential speechwriter Terry Szuplat is a man of many words, writ large in the annals of history.

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Restaurant Review: Láylí Mediterranean Garden

With tasty Levantine fare, chic lighting and moody beats, this Clarendon newcomer gets the vibe just right.

Have You Ever Tried a Bier Bath?

Popular in Europe, a good soak in barley and hops has purported wellness benefits. Give it a go at this Maryland spa and alehouse.

Best of Arlington 2025

In case you need even more reasons to love where you live...our annual celebration of the best local restaurants, businesses, shops, services and things to do is here. 🏆

Get Away: Graduate by Hilton Princeton

Visiting colleges? If Princeton's on your list, here's a cool place to stay near the Ivy League campus in New Jersey.

Not Fade Away

D.C.’s Flight Wine Bar Is Returning as a Wine Shop in Arlington

Wine sellers Kabir Amir and Swati Bose are resurrecting their beloved business as a wine shop featuring modestly priced vinos from around the globe.

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A New Chapter for the Eden Center?

Forty years ago, this bastion of Vietnamese culture was founded by immigrants. Now there's talk of redevelopment.

A New Home With a View in Country Club Hills

This Arlington, Virginia, property had enviable views of D.C. that weren't being maximized. So the architect and owners pivoted.

The Life-Changing Gift of Choosing to Be Curious

A health scare pushed Lynn Borton out of her comfort zone. She hasn't looked back.

Where to Shop Local for Awesome Holiday Gifts

Find something for everyone on your list at these independent stores and boutiques.

Get Away: 1313 West in Annapolis

Located on a quiet street not far from Annapolis harbor, this elegant property has suites named after prize-winning racehorses.

19 Holiday Gift Ideas From Local Makers

These Northern Virginia artists and artisans have something delightful for everyone on your list.

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Westpost Has a New Korean Soju Bar

Tucked behind Bun'd Up, Noonchi hits the spot with beer, soju and Korean street food. It's the latest from chef Scott Chung.

Get Away: Book a Train Ride with Santa

Keep the holiday magic alive by taking a trip with St. Nick on the Virginia Scenic Railway.

Great Spaces: Sleeping in Nature’s Embrace

With this view, why would you ever get out of bed?

The Life-Affirming Power of Volunteering

Volunteerism is on the decline nationwide. But within our local community is a world of good.

Tomb Raiders in Arlington

Arlington's once-grand Abbey Mausoleum was demolished after falling victim to vandals. But its treasures live on.

She Founded a Coffee Shop to Fight Homelessness, Then Lost Her Home

Skyler Kelley has known hardship. Her Arlington coffee kiosk is the first step in an ambitious plan to pay it forward.

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Inside the Mind of Frank Lloyd Wright

Fallingwater isn't the only Wright structure in Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands. Here's a home tour for architecture enthusiasts.

Restaurant Review: Neutral Ground Bar + Kitchen

Chef David Guas brings charm and good eats, with hints of New Orleans, to a new gathering place in McLean.

Letter from the Publisher

Get Involved

Get Away: West Virginia’s Tygart Hotel

Nestled in an Appalachian mountain town, this historic property is an ideal base for a weekend hike or a scenic train ride.

Great Spaces: A Fanciful Dining Room

Wild colors and patterns elevate this whimsical dining room in Arlington's Williamsburg neighborhood.

An Impaired Motorist, a Child Lost and a Mother’s Fight

Four decades after her daughter's death, Candace Lightner is still fighting against drunk, drugged and distracted driving.

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Shop Local: Tiny Hooray Cards & Stationery

Arlington illustrator Beth Roszkowski’s cheeky product line is filled with relatable sentiments.

Get Away: The Mimslyn Inn

The historic property is close to Shenandoah National Park, Luray Caverns and other outdoor attractions.

Injured Animal? Meet Arlington’s Wildlife Rescue Experts

Who to call when you discover orphaned raccoons, stunned birds and other wild creatures that need help.

Shop Local: Icon Line Design

Upcycled jewelry made with vintage designer buttons—for your favorite fashionista.

Arlington Is Competitive. Take It From This Trivia Night Host

Match wits in a Virginia bar outside the nation's capital and you never know the experts you'll be up against.

When Parents Split: Divorcing With Kids

Some break-ups are unavoidable, but there are ways to make it easier on the kids if you decide to call it quits.

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Hit This Butcher Shop for Prime Proteins and Creative Sausages

Beer season is upon us, and Brick House Butcher in Falls Church has all kinds of grillable goodies to go with those pilsners and lagers.

When Arlington Banned School Dances

A statewide attempt to stymie desegregation in the wake of Brown v. Board of Ed didn't stop local teens from finding their groove.

This Persian Bar is Hopping in Tysons

Sharing space with upscale restaurant Joon, MayBar centers on clever cocktails, bar snacks and a vibey outdoor patio.

Art Imitates Nature at Meridian High School in Falls Church

Birds? Pollen spores? Coral reef? A community art project involving 850 students and faculty evokes images from the natural world. What do you see?

Have Yourself a Wizarding Weekend

Find potions, spells, Quidditch and cosplay at the Queen City Mischief & Magic festival in Staunton, Virginia.

Teachers We Love

Seasoned educators share stories and takeaways from their many years on the job.

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Get Away: The Oaks Waterfront Hotel

Relax and recharge your batteries at this picturesque waterfront retreat in Easton, Maryland.

AI Has Entered the Classroom. Are We Ready?

Generative AI has made its way into K-12 schools whether we like it or not. Here's how teachers and students are using the technology.

Restaurant Review: NiHao

Chef Peter Chang's Sichuan small plates restaurant in National Landing is a taste sensation.

Where Arlington’s Class of 2024 Applied to College

Which colleges and universities were most popular among this year's graduates? A look at the numbers.

Letter from the Publisher

Breaking Bad

Shop Local: Metal & Stone Creations

Sustainable, nature-inspired pieces by Falls Church artist Lisette Bez honor the jewelry-making traditions of Ecuador's Andean highlands.

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The Arlington County Fair Returns!

A time-honored summer tradition, the county fair brings carnival rides, agricultural competitions, a crafts expo, live entertainment and a pie-eating contest to the Thomas Jefferson Community Center.

Shop Local: We Love Sabrina Cabada

The Falls Church artist and D.C. gallery owner is known for her portraits of bold, audacious women. 🖌️

Get Away: Tracks and Yaks Rail Bike Tours

Chat it up as you pedal alongside the Great Allegheny Passage on a tandem...

Great Spaces: How to Make a Retaining Wall Barely Noticeable

A lush landscape design by Scott Brinitzer tricks the eye in Country Club Hills.

Weird History: A Plane Crash at Bishop O’Connell

Remembering the day a pilot ran out of fuel and narrowly averted disaster in an Arlington schoolyard. 🛩️

Get Away: Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn

This breezy boardwalk beach property isn't your average chain hotel. It feels like a coastal inn.

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De-Stress in These Low-Key New Jersey Beach Towns

The 7-mile barrier island anchored by Avalon and Stone Harbor is a paradise for birding, pampering, lounging and sticking your toes in the sand. 🏖️

April’s Most Expensive Home Sales

Recent sales included a Lyon Park bungalow that sold for $2.75 million and a McLean residence that commanded $5 million.

Extraordinary Teen Awards 2024

There are many ways to be extraordinary. These Northern Virginia students paint a multifaceted portrait of resilience and brilliance.

7 Things to Eat and Drink at Upside on Moore

Our dining critic went on a tasting tour of Rosslyn's new food hall. Here are a few of his faves.

Get Away: Sun Outdoors Chincoteague Bay

Outdoor lovers, rejoice! This bayside vacation spot offers fancy tents, waterfront cottages, RV sites and all kinds of summer fun.

What We’re Learning About Menopause and HRT

Women of a certain age are frustrated, fired up and tired of suffering. A new medical specialty is emerging.

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Sheriff Jose Quiroz Has a Few Thoughts About Jail Time

Arlington's first Latino sheriff grew up here and served in the Marine Corps. His corrections philosophy centers on accountability, structure and skill building.

Get Away: White Swan Tavern in Chestertown, Maryland

This Eastern Shore bed-and-breakfast is a short walk to the town’s waterfront, restaurants, shops, galleries and Washington College.

Who Invited You, Parkinson’s?

I thought our empty-nester years would bring carefree fun and travel. An unwelcome diagnosis prompted me to rewrite my next chapter.

Restaurant Review: Padaek

Chef Seng Luangrath takes her Lao food movement to soaring heights in Arlington Ridge.

Rediscovering the Anacostia River

Once too polluted for recreation, this D.C. waterway is making a dramatic comeback. Here are some fun ways to get out on the water.

Great Spaces: A ‘Rye Whiskey Kind of Room’

This vibey McLean sitting room designed by Ann Gottlieb is a place for after-dinner drinks and conversation.

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Shop Local: Custom Woodcrafts With an Edge

Arlington woodworker David DeJulio juxtaposes natural woods with epoxy resin to create one-of-a-kind furniture pieces.

How to Make Downsizing Less Overwhelming

Shedding a lifetime of belongings can be emotional, hard work. Break it down into these steps, says professional move manager Anna Novak.

Peek Inside These Dreamy Arlington Kitchen Makeovers

Thinking about remodeling? These culinary beauties will surely give you house envy.

These Craft Cocktail Trends Are on Fire

Thirsty for something special? Here's what’s fresh and new in the wonderful world of mixology.

Honeybees Aren’t the Pollinators We Should Be Most Worried About

Native bees play a vital role in healthy ecosystems, and their populations are dwindling. They need our protection.

It Was One of the Better Senior Pranks in Arlington’s History

That time a Bob's Big Boy mascot ended up on the roof of Wakefield High School...and other memorable acts of mischief.

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Sample a ‘Coffee Omakase’ at Gute Leute

Love coffee? Try a tasting flight of fancy caffeinated beverages, from a lavender float to a bubble-topped espresso, at this Ballston cafe.

Get Away: Charlottesville’s Little Mod Hotel

If you love retro furnishings, this groovy boutique hotel is just the place for a UVA college visit or graduation weekend.

The House That Grief Built

At first, decorating my house felt trivial after my mom’s death. It wasn’t.

Classic Hometown Restaurants We Love

There's a reason they've been in business for decades. Meet the families and friends behind the menus.

Get Away: Richmond’s Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

Find lush displays of peonies, irises and roses, plus outdoor concerts and fun for kids in this garden paradise.

Why We Should All Be Worried About Arlington’s Empty Office Buildings

Arlington has a lot of vacant office space. It’s not just a problem for the commercial sector.

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Cupcakes Almost Too Pretty to Eat

Celebrating a special occasion? These botanical beauties by Jam Sweet Bouquets are a buttercream dream.

Do You Know the ‘Mushroom Man’?

Meet Ian Triplett of Three Cap Farms. His weekly farmers market yield invariably sells out in National Landing's MetPark.

Shop Local: Fonts Books & Gifts

Attention readers: McLean now has its own independent bookstore.

From the Caribbean, With Love

At 13, Daniella Senior launched a catering business. Now the Colada Shop founder is expanding her hospitality empire and advocating for immigrants.