The Secret Side of Arlington: Stay, Eat & Play in Shirlington Village
Arlington’s Hilton Garden Inn Shirlington just wrapped up a top-to-bottom renovation, and it’s ready to welcome guests with stylish new rooms, upgraded amenities, and even a brand-new meeting space. But here’s the real bonus—its location puts you steps from one of Northern Virginia’s most walkable, foodie-friendly neighborhoods: The Village at Shirlington.
What’s New at the Hilton Garden Inn Shirlington
Guests will find:
Refreshed guest rooms with modern furnishings, cozy bedding, and tech-friendly touches.
A sleek new meeting space perfect for small events, team gatherings, or intimate celebrations.
Upgraded common areas where you can kick back with a drink or grab a fresh, cooked-to-order breakfast before heading out to explore.
Why Stay Here? Location, Location, Location
The Hilton Garden Inn sits right in Shirlington Village, which feels like its own little pocket town just minutes from D.C. and Reagan National Airport. Park your car once, and you can walk to:
Signature Theatre – A Tony Award-winning regional theatre that stages Broadway-quality shows in an intimate setting.
Local eats – Favorites include Busboys and Poets (bookstore + restaurant), Cheesetique (a must for wine and cheese lovers), and Guapo’s for Tex-Mex on the patio.
Boutique shopping – Stroll for unique gifts, art, and even gourmet dog treats (yes, Shirlington is famously dog-friendly).
Hidden Gems to Add to Your Trip
Shirlington Dog Park – Even if you don’t have a pup, it’s fun to walk along the stream and watch dogs splash and play.
W&OD Trail – Rent a bike or lace up your walking shoes; this 45-mile paved trail runs right past Shirlington for easy access to green space and fresh air.
Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse – Just a short drive away, this quirky theater lets you watch movies or comedy shows with food and drinks delivered right to your seat.
Traveler Tips
Skip the car when heading into D.C.: Hop on a quick bus ride from Shirlington to the Pentagon Metro station for easy access to monuments and museums.
Visit in spring or fall: Shirlington comes alive with outdoor festivals, art fairs, and patio dining. Fall’s Oktoberfest and spring’s wine festivals are local favorites.
Bring your appetite: With more than a dozen local restaurants within a few blocks, you’ll want to try something new each night.
The Bottom Line
The Hilton Garden Inn Arlington Shirlington’s renovation is more than just a facelift—it’s the perfect excuse to base yourself in a lively, walkable neighborhood with easy access to both D.C. highlights and Northern Virginia charm. Whether you’re in town for business, catching a show at Signature Theatre, or just looking for a weekend getaway with plenty of good food and local flavor, Shirlington delivers.
Jennifer is the Founder of Adventures in the US, where she shares hidden gems, road trip itineraries, and must-see destinations across the country. A lifelong explorer with a love for RV travel and quirky local finds, Jennifer believes the best adventures happen when you mix small-town charm with unforgettable experiences. Through her personalized itineraries, and travel tips, she helps families, couples, and fellow wanderers discover unique places they might otherwise miss.
Jennifer works by day as the Executive Director of a non-profit and in her downtime can be found enjoying community events near her home in Pennsylvania or sipping coffee while dreaming up new adventures.
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