Virginia Highlands Park

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Virginia Highlands Park is a popular recreational destination nestled in the state of Virginia.


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Summary

Located in Arlington, this expansive park offers a plethora of activities and points of interest for visitors of all ages. Here's a summary of the park's highlights:

Reasons to Visit:
1. Abundant Green Spaces: Virginia Highlands Park boasts vast green spaces, perfect for picnicking, playing sports, or simply unwinding amidst nature's tranquility.
2. Playground and Sprayground: One of the main attractions, the park features a large playground with various play structures, swings, and slides, offering endless fun for children. Additionally, the sprayground provides a respite from summer heat with its interactive water features.
3. Sports Facilities: Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the park's basketball and volleyball courts, as well as baseball and softball fields.
4. Tennis Courts: Tennis lovers can enjoy well-maintained courts for both casual matches and organized tournaments.
5. Community Events: The park hosts numerous community events, such as concerts, festivals, and outdoor movie nights, fostering a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.

Points of Interest:
1. Arlington County Fair: Held annually at Virginia Highlands Park, the Arlington County Fair showcases local crafts, agricultural displays, live entertainment, and thrilling rides.
2. Aurora Hills Library: Adjacent to the park, the Aurora Hills Library is a convenient spot to relax, read, or explore its collection.
3. Arlington Historical Museum: Situated nearby, this museum offers insight into Arlington's rich history, including exhibits on the Civil War and local heritage.

Interesting Facts:
1. The park covers an area of approximately 18 acres and is situated near Crystal City, Pentagon City, and the Pentagon.
2. Virginia Highlands Park features an expansive dog park, providing a dedicated space for four-legged visitors to socialize and exercise.
3. The park is easily accessible, with ample parking, bike lanes, and proximity to public transportation options.

Best Time of Year to Visit:
The park is enjoyable throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique charm. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is ideal for families, as the sprayground and green spaces provide respite from the heat. Winter can still be enjoyable, especially for those who enjoy brisk walks or playing winter sports.

To ensure the accuracy of this information, it is recommended to verify these details across multiple independent sources such as official park websites, Arlington County government websites, and reputable travel guides.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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