Crystal City Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Crystal City? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about visiting this vibrant destination, from the best places to visit and stay to safety and health tips.


Introduction to Crystal City

Crystal City is a bustling urban community located in Arlington, Virginia, just minutes away from downtown Washington, DC. Known for its cutting-edge technology industry, world-class museums, and top-notch dining and shopping options, Crystal City has something for everyone.

Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or looking for some urban excitement, Crystal City is a destination worth exploring. Join us as we take a closer look at the best things to do in Crystal City, including must-visit attractions, natural wonders, and cultural experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Crystal City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Crystal City’s museums and historical sites offer a glimpse into the city’s rich culture and history. Don’t miss these top attractions:

  • Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum: Home to hundreds of aviation and space artifacts, including the original Wright 1903 Flyer and the Apollo 11 Command Module.
  • Arlington Historical Museum: Provides a look at Arlington’s past, with exhibits on transportation, communication, and daily life in the early 20th century.
  • Arlington National Cemetery: One of the country’s most notable cemeteries, Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for over 400,000 service members and their families. Be sure to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Natural Attractions of Crystal City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For outdoor enthusiasts, Crystal City has plenty to offer. From hiking trails to scenic lookouts, here are some of the best outdoor attractions:

  • Long Bridge Park: This 30-acre park features athletic fields, a playground, and stunning views of the Potomac River and the DC skyline.
  • Mount Vernon Trail: This 18-mile trail runs along the Potomac River and offers scenic views of the city and its landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.
  • Roaches Run Waterfowl Sanctuary: A nature lover’s paradise, Roaches Run is home to a variety of bird species, including ducks, geese, and herons.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Crystal City

Crystal City has several hiking and biking routes for visitors to explore. Here are a few of the most popular:

  • Capital Bikeshare: With over 430 stations throughout the DC area, Capital Bikeshare is an affordable and convenient way to explore Crystal City’s bike routes.
  • Mount Vernon Trail: This 18-mile trail is perfect for both hiking and biking. Visitors can take in stunning views of the Potomac River and some of DC’s most famous landmarks.
  • Potomac Yard Trail: This paved trail is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. It runs through several parks and neighborhoods, providing a glimpse into daily life in Crystal City.

Best Things to Do in Crystal City: Activities and Tours

From museums to outdoor adventures, Crystal City has plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. Here are a few must-try experiences:

  • Ghosts of Georgetown Tour: Explore the spooky side of Georgetown with this guided walking tour. Visitors will learn about some of the city’s haunted landmarks and stories of paranormal activity.
  • Sunset Kayaking Tour: Take in the stunning DC skyline at sunset with this guided kayaking tour. Visitors can paddle through the Potomac River and take in views of some of the city’s most famous landmarks.
  • Fashion Centre at Pentagon City: This shopping mall has over 170 stores, including high-end retailers like Michael Kors and Nordstrom. Visitors can also take a break from shopping and catch a movie at the on-site cinema.

Week-Long Itinerary for Crystal City

For visitors planning to spend a week in Crystal City, here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore the National Air and Space Museum and the nearby Pentagon.
  • Day 2: Take a hike along the Mount Vernon Trail and enjoy lunch at one of the nearby restaurants.
  • Day 3: Visit the Arlington Historical Museum and stop by the nearby Arlington National Cemetery.
  • Day 4: Sign up for a guided tour of nearby Georgetown or Old Town Alexandria.
  • Day 5: Enjoy a day of shopping at the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City.
  • Day 6: Take part in a sunset kayaking tour along the Potomac River.
  • Day 7: Spend the day exploring Long Bridge Park and taking in views of the DC skyline.

Food and Drink Scene of Crystal City

Must-Try Dishes

Crystal City has a diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from traditional American fare to international cuisine. Here are a few must-try dishes:

  • Shrimp and grits: A southern classic, this dish features succulent shrimp served over creamy grits.
  • Half-smoke: A DC original, a half-smoke is a sausage made from half smoked beef and half pork.
  • Bibimbap: A Korean rice dish topped with sautéed vegetables, meat, and spicy sauce.

Local Beverages

Don’t miss these local beverage favorites:

  • Virginia wine: Virginia is known for its wine production, and many local wineries offer tours and tastings.
  • Port City Brewing Company beer: This local brewery offers a variety of beers, including their flagship Optimal Wit and Porter.
  • Bluejacket beer: Located in nearby Navy Yard, Bluejacket offers seasonal and specialty beers in their taproom.

Where to Stay in Crystal City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Crystal City has plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Here are a few top picks:

  • Hyatt Regency Crystal City: This four-star hotel offers easy access to the airport and is just a few minutes from downtown DC.
  • Crystal Gateway Marriott: Located on Crystal City’s main street, this hotel offers easy access to shopping, restaurants, and public transportation.
  • Crystal City Hostel: If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation, this hostel offers dorm-style rooms and private rooms at affordable rates.

What to Buy in Crystal City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave Crystal City without picking up these local souvenirs:

  • Boutique chocolates: Artisanal chocolatiers like Artisan Confections and Chocolate Chocolate offer unique treats to bring home.
  • Hatch Show Prints: These historic letterpress posters make great wall art and are available at nearby Hatch Show Print in Alexandria.
  • Virginia peanuts: These delicious roasted peanuts are a classic local snack and make great gifts for friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Crystal City

Crystal City is a community that prides itself on its diversity and inclusion. Visitors should be respectful of all cultures and customs, and should also abide by local laws and regulations.

Best Time to Visit Crystal City

The best time to visit Crystal City is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Crystal City

Do:

  • Do explore the local parks and outdoor attractions.
  • Do try the local food and drink, including Virginia wine and half-smokes.
  • Do take advantage of the public transportation system when exploring the city.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or be disrespectful of local customs and cultures.
  • Don’t ignore local laws and regulations.
  • Don’t forget your sunscreen and comfortable shoes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Crystal City

Crystal City is a safe destination for visitors, with a low crime rate. Visitors should still take common-sense precautions, such as avoiding dark alleys or deserted areas at night.

Health in Crystal City

Crystal City has several medical facilities, including Virginia Hospital Center and Inova Alexandria Hospital. Visitors should also be aware of the potential for air pollution, especially during the summer months.

Getting to Crystal City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Crystal City

Crystal City is just a few minutes away from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, which offers domestic flights and some international flights.

Bus Stations Near Crystal City

Crystal City is served by several bus stations, including the Crystal City Bus Station and the Pentagon City Metro station.

Other Options

Visitors can also take advantage of the DC Metro system, which runs throughout the city and provides easy access to Crystal City.

How to Get Around in Crystal City

Crystal City has a variety of transportation options, including public transportation, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Crystal City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Crystal City is just minutes away from other top DC destinations, including the National Mall, Georgetown, and Old Town Alexandria. Visitors can also take day trips to nearby destinations like Mount Vernon or Shenandoah National Park.

Conclusion

From its world-class museums and outdoor adventures to its top-notch dining and shopping options, Crystal City is a vibrant destination worth visiting. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip to this urban community in the heart of Northern Virginia.