Ballston

Day Trips

Start your day with coffee at a local café, enjoying the aroma of freshly brewed beans. Take a leisurely stroll through the Ballston Quarter, watching the area wake up with shoppers and joggers. Consider a quick visit to nearby parks to soak in the fresh morning air.

Visit the Ballston Common Mall for lunch and some retail therapy; try out a new restaurant for a taste of local cuisine. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Arlington Historical Museum to immerse yourself in the city's rich history. Wind down your afternoon at a local park, perhaps enjoying a walkthrough of the art installations scattered throughout.

As the sun sets, head to one of Ballston’s rooftop bars for a spectacular view of the skyline with a signature cocktail. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the trendy eateries that serve everything from gourmet burgers to international dishes. Conclude your evening with a visit to a nearby theater for a live performance or a movie.

Begin with a visit to the Arlington Arts Center, where you can explore various exhibitions and possibly meet local artists. Afterward, indulge in breakfast at a charming café nearby, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and artisanal coffee. Take your time to browse through the local boutiques that dot the area.

Spend your afternoon at the National Gallery of Art, where you can marvel at masterpieces from various centuries. Take a break for lunch in the museum's café, which offers a delightful menu perfect for art lovers. Afterward, embark on a scenic walk through the gardens surrounding the museum, soaking in the beautiful flora and fauna.

For dinner, choose a locally-owned restaurant specializing in farm-to-table dining, offering seasonal dishes made with fresh ingredients. After the meal, head to the nearby metro station and catch a show at the iconic Kennedy Center for an unforgettable experience. End the evening with a quiet nightcap at a sophisticated bar featuring live jazz music.

Start with a hearty breakfast at a well-known diner before heading out to the beautiful parks around Ballston. Grab your walking shoes and embark on a nature trail, where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy the serenity of the outdoors. Consider renting a bicycle to cover more ground and see everything the area has to offer.

Stop for a picnic lunch at one of the popular parks, perhaps enjoying homemade sandwiches while soaking up the sun. After lunch, partake in recreational activities such as paddleboarding or kayaking at a nearby lake. Explore the local farmers market to grab fresh produce and artisan products to take home.

As the day fades into evening, find a warm, inviting restaurant that features outdoor dining to relish the scenery. Enjoy a farm-to-table experience with a menu curated from local farmers. Before heading back, take a walk along the waterfront, basking in the glow of the sunset.

Kick off your culinary journey with a breakfast food tour that highlights local favorites and introduces you to best spots in town. Engage with chefs and learn about the unique flavor profiles of local dishes as you sample a variety of morning delights. Capture these moments with photographs to depict the vibrant breakfast culture here.

Participate in a cooking class where you can delve into local cuisine, learning both traditional and modern techniques. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you share your culinary creations with fellow participants over lunch. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk to a local brewery for a tasting of locally crafted beers.

For dinner, indulge in a multi-course tasting menu at an upscale restaurant featuring a renowned chef, experiencing the best of Ballston's culinary offerings. Pair your meal with wine suggestions from a knowledgeable sommelier for a complete dining experience. Conclude your day with dessert from a famous bakery, perhaps savoring a signature cake or pastry.

Begin with a breakfast at a diner noted for its vintage decor and iconic dishes, setting the mood for your historical exploration. After satisfying your appetite, visit the Arlington National Cemetery and pay your respects while learning about the rich history surrounding the site. Join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the lives and sacrifices of those interred.

Visit the nearby Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, exploring the significance of this hallowed ground. Enjoy lunch at a café that celebrates local history through its themed decor and menu. Spend your afternoon at the nearby Fort Myer, where you can learn about military history and take peaceful walks in the beautiful grounds.

As evening falls, dine at a historic restaurant that has been a staple in the community for decades, relishing the stories the walls could tell. Participate in a ghost tour through Ballston, exploring haunted sites within the area and absorbing tales of the past. Finish with a nightcap at a local pub that's known for its history and inviting atmosphere.

Fuel up for a day of excitement with a hearty breakfast at a local café known for its mouth-watering brunch offerings. Head out to the local sports complex to catch a morning game or practice session of community sports teams, inspiring a sense of local pride. Join locals for a friendly chat about their favorite teams and sports events.

After the morning's action, grab lunch at a sports bar where you can enjoy game day specials while discussing the latest sports news with fellow fans. In the afternoon, try your hand at a sport by participating in a local league or pickup game, showcasing your skills. Explore the sporting goods stores in the area for souvenirs or gear.

As the day winds down, make your way to a local stadium or arena to enjoy a live sporting event, whether it's a minor league baseball game or a thrilling basketball match. Cheer alongside local fans, immersing yourself in the energetic atmosphere of the game. Afterward, wrap up with a late-night snack at a food truck known for its unique twist on classic comfort food.

Start your day with breakfast at a trendy brunch spot that offers delicious options for every palate. After breakfast, dive into the boutiques and shops of Ballston Quarter, where you can find everything from designer goods to unique handmade items. Don’t forget to stop by the local markets offering artisan goods and handmade crafts.

Following your shopping spree, enjoy lunch at an outdoor restaurant that allows you to people-watch and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Spend your afternoon exploring Ballston's local art galleries, taking in the creativity and cultural offerings of the area. Consider participating in a workshop or craft session during your visit.

For dinner, savor a culinary experience at one of Ballston’s upscale eateries that engage with seasonal ingredients. After the meal, explore the nightlife in the area by visiting a local cocktail bar, well known for its mixology. End your day with live music at a nearby venue, enjoying the ambiance of local talent.

Jumpstart your day with a health-conscious breakfast at a café that prioritizes fresh, local ingredients. Head to one of Ballston’s fitness studios for a morning class such as yoga or spin, aimed at energizing your body and clearing your mind. Take advantage of the free outdoor workout sessions often hosted at local parks.

Post-workout, refuel with a nutritious lunch at a nearby health food restaurant that specializes in organic dishes. Spend your afternoon exploring walking paths that promote wellness and relaxation, taking the time to appreciate nature all around you. Consider booking a spa treatment for a relaxing experience to rejuvenate your body.

As the day transitions, make your way to a healthy cooking workshop that teaches new recipes and nutrition tips, enjoying the dishes created by participants. Dine on the creations with a focus on healthy eating and sustainability. Wrap up with a serene evening walk, reflecting on the day’s accomplishments and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Kick off your family fun day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, known for its family-friendly atmosphere. After breakfast, head to a nearby amusement center featuring various games and attractions that will entertain all ages. Participate in engaging activities like mini-golf or arcade games, creating lasting family memories.

Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of Ballston’s family-friendly parks, with plenty of space for kids to play and explore. Spend the afternoon at the local science museum or children’s discovery center, where kids can learn and have fun at the same time. Engage in interactive exhibits that are sure to spark curiosity.

As the sun sets, savor a family dinner at a casual restaurant that offers a kid-friendly menu along with fun activities for children. Maybe watch an outdoor movie or participate in a family trivia night at a local venue, enhancing the fun. End your day with ice cream from a popular local parlor, celebrating the day’s adventures.