Welcome to Shirlington-Fairlington
Charming neighborhoods with gorgeous homes and reposeful vibes
Settled in the southern corner of Arlington County, Shirlington-Fairlington is a charming collection of neighborhoods that are among the most desirable in the DC Metropolitan Area. These two communities give residents a dense, urban village feel with warm, tight-knit neighborhoods with access to all the best amenities in the area.
The communities of Shirlington and Fairlington were primarily rural farming communities until the end of World War II. During the postwar boom, both areas grew as the need for suburban housing in the DC Metropolitan area increased.
Outdoor and adventure enthusiasts can access the fantastic hiking and biking trails that wind through Northern Virginia, with nearby trailheads for the Four Mile Run and the Washington and Old Dominion Railroad Trail.
What to Love
- Endlessly charming tree-lined streets
- Vibrant shopping and dining districts
- The friendly, hospitable village atmosphere
- Ideally located in the DC Metropolitan Area
Local Lifestyle
Shirlington is a small, tightly-knit community that is perfect for those wanting quick access to the DC and Arlington area while still living in a charming, friendly neighborhood. The Village at Shirlington is an upscale shopping and dining corridor with over 15 shops and more than 20 restaurants.
Fairlington is a charming neighborhood consisting mainly of gorgeous brick, Colonial Revival-style townhomes that line its shady, peaceful lanes. Residents of the many smaller communities within Fairlington have access to their complex amenities like fitness and aquatic centers. The town is extremely dog-friendly, with a dedicated dog park and easy access to plenty of pet-friendly hiking trails.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Residents of Shirlington and Fairlington can quickly get to all the hotspots in Arlington and the rest of the DC area, giving them access to some of the most unique and upscale restaurants in the country. The lively
Green Pig Bistro serves French fare with an American twist, all artfully prepared by Executive Chef Tracy O’Grady. This award-winning eatery has extensive menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner that include plenty of vegetarian and pescetarian options.
Located in Arlington,
SER Restaurant serves Spanish comfort food in a warm, inviting dining space. The restaurant’s name stands for its main tenets: Simple, Easy, and Real. SER is known for its famous Sunday suppers, a three-course meal featuring favorites like papas bravas and paella.
In Crystal City,
McCormick and Shmick’s Seafood and Steaks is an upscale steakhouse with an old-school club vibe. This restaurant sources many of its ingredients from local growers, ranchers, and wineries. McCormick and Shmick’s take part in a sustainable seafood program to preserve the delicate marine ecosystem.
The casually chic
Cafe Colline is a French eatery in the nearby area of Lee Hills. The menu, carefully curated by Chef Brendan L’Etoile, includes inspired dishes for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Cafe Colline’s delectable French fare includes fare like moules frittes and cassoulet. This eatery also has an extensive wine and cocktail menu that pairs perfectly with its food.
Things to Do
Shirlington is a haven for the cultural arts scene of the greater Arlington region. It’s home to the Tony Award-winning
Signature Theatre, which is the region’s premier company theater for musical and dramatic productions. This theater features world premiere and reinvented concerts, musicals, and plays. The Signature also holds community programs and camps for up-and-coming performers.
Jennie Dean Park is an expansive multi-use athletic and leisure complex in Shirlington. The park feature fields and courts for basketball, baseball, tennis, and open-use play. There is a large children’s play structure and several picnic pavilions within the 12-acre park.
Four Mile Run Park has received multiple awards for sustainability and excellence. This park has a trail that winds along Four Mile Stream as well as areas for fishing and bird-watching. The park’s open areas have athletic fields and a playground structure.
The
Fairlington Community Center is an impressive mixed-use facility for fitness and recreation. The center boasts an art studio, a fitness center, and several multi-purpose rooms. On the grounds, there is an engaging children’s play structure, a running trail, and athletic fields. There is also a seasonal local farmers’ market that meets at the community center, offering fresh produce and goods.
Schools