Facts for Kids

Arlington County is located in Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. 🌉

It's known for its beautiful parks, historic sites, and important government buildings. Arlington is home to about 238,000 people, making it a busy place! This county is famous for Arlington National Cemetery, where many heroes are laid to rest. 🏰

The county was created in 1801 and was named after Arlington House, the home of General Robert E. Lee. There are many fun things to do, see, and learn in Arlington County!

Parks and recreation are great in Arlington County! 🌳

There are over 150 parks, playgrounds, and natural areas for families to enjoy. Famous parks include Theodore Roosevelt Island, which has beautiful trails and lots of nature to explore. 🦋

Other parks, like Lubber Run Park, have picnic areas, sports fields, and places for kids to play. Arlington also has community centers offering fun activities, classes, and sports programs. ⚽

It’s a great way to stay active and meet new friends!

Arlington County covers about 26 square miles and is shaped like a triangle! 📐

It's situated right along the Potomac River, which gives it pretty waterfront areas. The weather in Arlington is a mix of four seasons. In summer (June-August) it can get hot, with temperatures reaching around 90°F (32°C). ☀

️ Winters (December-February) can be cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping to 30°F (-1°C) or lower, and sometimes even snow! ❄

️ Mixed weather lets you enjoy many outdoor activities throughout the year.

The economy in Arlington County is strong because of its location near Washington, D.C. 🌆

Many people work for the government or in the tech industry. Companies like Amazon have big offices here, creating lots of jobs. 🖥

️ In addition to tech jobs, Arlington has a booming hospitality industry filled with hotels and restaurants serving delicious foods from around the world! 🍔

Many residents also work in healthcare and education, making Arlington a diverse place to find jobs and opportunities.

As of 2020, Arlington County has approximately 238,000 residents! 🌍

This makes it one of the most densely populated counties in the United States. Many people who live here work in nearby Washington, D.C. Arlington has a diverse community, with people from different cultures and backgrounds. Over 40% of residents speak a language other than English at home, making it a vibrant melting pot. 🥣

In Arlington, you'll find families, young professionals, and lots of children attending local schools!

Arlington County has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. 🗓

️ The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Powhatan. In 1791, the land was chosen to be part of Washington, D.C. However, in 1846, the land was returned to Virginia, and Arlington County was officially established. During the Civil War (1861-1865), many battles occurred nearby. Arlington National Cemetery was created on the grounds of the Lee family home in 1864. Today, it honors U.S. military members and their families. 🇺🇸

Education is very important in Arlington County! 📚

The county has a strong public school system called Arlington Public Schools, which serves over 27,000 students. This includes elementary, middle, and high schools. There are also several private schools for families who choose them. Arlington is known for its great teachers and supportive learning environment. 🎓

Many students in Arlington go on to attend top colleges and universities, thanks to the quality education they receive growing up.

Arlington County has its own local government that helps make decisions for the community. 🏛

️ The government is made up of a County Board, which consists of five elected members. Elections take place every year. The County Board works on important issues like parks, schools, and public safety. Arlington has a history of being a progressive area that's open to new ideas. Democratic ideas are popular here, and many residents participate in local campaigns and community events. 🗳

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Arlington County has many fun cultural attractions and events! 🎭

You can visit the Arlington Arts Center to see amazing art exhibits. The county celebrates "Arlington Festival of the Arts" every year, where artists display their work. 🎨

There are concerts, plays, and festivals throughout the year, like the "Clarendon Day Festival." The county also has many memorials, such as the Marine Corps War Memorial, which honors U.S. Marines. 📜

With so much culture around, there's always something exciting happening!

Arlington County has excellent transportation options! 🚌

There are buses, metro trains, and plenty of bike paths, making it easy to get around. The Washington Metro has several stations in Arlington, including the popular Rosslyn and Ballston stops. 🚉

Many residents also choose to walk or ride bikes to explore the county. Cars are common, but the focus on public transport helps keep traffic manageable. Arlington even has a program called "Capital Bikeshare," where you can rent bikes to ride! 🚲

Arlington County has been home to many famous people! 🌟

For example, General Robert E. Lee lived at Arlington House before the Civil War. Today, notable residents include politicians, athletes, and artists. ⭐

Former President Gerald Ford lived in Arlington, along with Supreme Court justices. The contributions of these residents have made the county a wonderful place to explore history and culture. Many locals are involved in community service and volunteer work, making Arlington a supportive and caring community! 🤝