According to the Walk Score, a nifty website that measures the walkability of any address based on specific criteria, 85% of Arlington’s neighborhoods have a Walk Score of at least 50 out of 100. What’s more, these Walk Score numbers make Arlington the most walkable jurisdiction in Virginia!
Coming in at the top of the Walk Score ranking for Arlington neighborhoods are Clarendon-Courthouse, Ballston-Virginia Square, and Aurora Highlands.
You can check out how your address measures up by clicking here.
What makes a neighborhood walkable? Walk Score’s criteria:
- A center: Walkable neighborhoods have a center, whether it's a main street or a public space.
- People: Enough people for businesses to flourish and for public transit to run frequently.
- Mixed income, mixed use: Affordable housing located near businesses.
- Parks and public space: Plenty of public places to gather and play.
- Pedestrian design: Buildings are close to the street, parking lots are relegated to the back.
- Schools and workplaces: Close enough that most residents can walk from their homes.
- Complete streets: Streets designed for bicyclists, pedestrians, and transit.
Not sure which neighborhood to explore first or what each has to offer? Go online to WalkArlington.com and check out the Walkabouts tab. WalkArlington’s Walkabouts are self-guided neighborhood walking tours that let you discover the beauty and history of Arlington’s neighborhoods.
There are 18 walkabouts to explore, from urban villages to rolling parkland, quaint neighborhoods to city streets. Each Walkabout lists the starting point, distance, and type of terrain you’ll find, plus a description to give you a feel for the neighborhood. Take a friend, the kids, your dog, or strike out on your own-you can’t go wrong.
All of our Walkabout maps are online and available in a pocket-sized color brochure, which is now being updated to include our two newest walking routes in Westover and Yorktown! Contact info@walkarlington.com (subject line: Walkabouts BrochureRequest) if you would like to be one of the first to receive the updated brochure!
Lauren Hassel
WalkArlington
