5 Interesting And Unusual Attractions In Arlington

Arlington County is home to some of the nation's greatest attractions. From Arlington National Cemetery, through the Gravelly Point Park, to the award-wining Signature Theater, you can never run out of things to see in Arlington.

But, other than the all-too famous landmarks, there are some interesting and unusual attractions in Arlington that not so many people know about. Here are five that you should seek out.

Dark Star Park

Arlington's first major commissioned art project, the Dark Star Park features large concrete spheres designed to resemble fallen stars. The work was completed in 1984 by famed artist Nancy Holt. Every year on August 1 at 9.32 in the morning the spheres put on a light and shadow show like no other.

Rosslyn Metro Escalator

At 207 feet, this is one of the world’s longest continuous escalators. The escalator ride takes about three minutes from the street to the mezzanine levels.

DEA Museum

Just across from the Pentagon behind the Drug Enforcement Administration headquarters, this public museum details the effects of drug addiction and the law enforcement agency’s history in fighting their manufacture and trafficking. The museum’s exhibits include a replica pharmacy, head shop, and a crack house.

Headstone-Eating Trees of Arlington Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is the resting place for thousands of U.S. Armed Forces since 1864 representing every American war. The sprawling rows of white marble headstones and grassy lawns are shaded by over 8,600 majestic trees. But a few rogue trees are gradually consuming some of the historic marble grave markers.

Abingdon Plantation Ruins

Inside the bustling Ronald National Airport, nestled in between a parking lot and a rental car return at the airport, is the remains of the historic Abingdon Plantation--an 18th- and 19th- century estate owned by the prominent Alexander, Custis, Stuart, and Hunter families.

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