Car-Free Diet

Crystal City

Photo: outdoor sculptureCrystal City is a fascinating complex of office buildings, residential high-rises, boutiques, shops, cafes, and restaurants, all near the Crystal City Metro station. Many of the buildings around the Metro station are linked not only by tree-lined streets above ground, but also by an extensive underground system of corridors and walkways, lined with shops, eateries, and services.

Crystal City has over 4,600 hotel rooms to accommodate visitors, all of which have easy access to Washington, D.C. and Reagan National Airport. But more important to the thousands of people who live and work here, Crystal City is very convenient for everyday necessities as well. Pharmacies, banks, doctor and dentist's offices, a post office and supermarkets are all part of the amenities that Crystal City citizens can find close to home. There are even three universities offering professional and advanced degrees through night classes and other programs. The two Metrorail lines, Metrobus service, and major bike trails make it an ideal location for commuters, too. And Crystal City was the first Arlington neighborhood to be included in the regional Capital Bikeshare program.

Crystal City continues to grow every day. Potomac Yard is a new development being built on the site of a former rail yard. Apartment and condominium buildings and a Harris Teeter grocery store are already open, and much more retail and office space are soon to come. The new 220 Apartments on Crystal Drive are promising residents a higher perspective of Crystal City.

Photo: Metrobus stopRelaxation and fun have their place here too – the Crystal City Water Park is one of several outdoor lunch spots, and regularly offers summer concerts both during lunch and evenings. Many of the public plazas offer free wireless Internet for the residents, workers and visitors to enjoy. Public volleyball and basketball courts complement two Sport and Health clubs for those looking to stay in shape, and a short bike/pedestrian connector trail leads to the 18.5-mile Mt. Vernon Trail. Many of the D.C. area’s favorite restaurants are located here and provide not only great food, but also captivating views of Washington. There is also the historic Restaurant Row on 23rd Street providing a variety of cuisines and an active nightlife.

Did You Know?

A study in West Virginia showed that for $1 spent on trails, there was a $3-$4 reduction in direct medical costs.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy

Recent Blog Posts
Animated Spots Promote "Take the Bus"

February 1, 2012

Car-Free Diet Street Talk - Susan

January 25, 2012

Lights. Camera. Action. The Car-Free Diet Show is born!

January 18, 2012

Car-Free Diet Blog

News Headlines
Metro track work for weekend of Feb. 3-5

January 30, 2012, WMATA

Arlington sees threat to Metro in U.S. House transportation bill

February 3, 2012, Arlington County

Metro scales back hiring to 877 positions

Kytja Weir, February 2, 2012, Examiner

More News & Events

Upcoming Events
REI - Introduction for Hiking Class

Saturday, February 4, 2012 – Sunday, March 4, 2012

Ranger Led Walking Tour - John Paul Jones and Joshua Barney: Two Examples for the Navy

Saturday, February 4, 2012

Civil War Discovery: Winter Soldiering

Saturday, February 4, 2012

Events Calendar

The Car-Free Diet Show