The best parks & outdoor spots in Arlington County

3 places we’ve checked and would send a neighbor to. Open any one to read what we wrote about it.

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Dark Star Park (opens in a new tab)

1655 Fort Myer Dr · Arlington

Dark Star Park turns a small green space into a work of art, with five spheres, pools, poles, and tunnels woven into the landscape. The…

Dark Star Park turns a small green space into a work of art, with five spheres, pools, poles, and tunnels woven into the landscape. The spheres look like fallen stars, and the park’s clever shadow design gives you something to notice beyond the usual “nice place to sit” scenery.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 27, 2026

Mosaic Park (opens in a new tab)

538 N Pollard St · Arlington

This week, skip the usual loop and hit Mosaic Park for a colorful climbing wall, a multi-purpose court, and a flexible lawn that’s perfect…

This week, skip the usual loop and hit Mosaic Park for a colorful climbing wall, a multi-purpose court, and a flexible lawn that’s perfect for impromptu picnics or pickup games. Native plantings, a rain garden, and an LED-lit water feature make it feel like a tiny urban getaway.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 21, 2026

Virginia Highlands Park (opens in a new tab)

1600 S Hayes St · Arlington

Virginia Highlands Park packs a lot into nearly 20 acres: lighted tennis and basketball courts, pickleball, diamond and rectangular fields,…

Virginia Highlands Park packs a lot into nearly 20 acres: lighted tennis and basketball courts, pickleball, diamond and rectangular fields, a sprayground, even petanque and an interim dog run. Swing by this week, then wander the Highlands Urban Garden to see community-grown goodness in action.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 14, 2026