The 'little big city' of Arlington is a county of the US Commonwealth of Virginia. Located directly across the Potomac River to the west of Washington DC, Arlington is an ideally located city that is an ideal destination to visit for a holiday steeped in American political history and tradition.

Even though it is the smallest self-governing county in the US, it is home to some of the nation's most famous monuments and historical sites. Arlington is the location of the Washington National Airport, the Pentagon, the US Marine Corps War Memorial and the Air Force Memorial.

Bordering the cities of Falls Church and Alexandria, Arlington is a diversely urban city that is brimming with world class dining, shopping and nightlife, offering history, culture and fun for all.

1. US Marine Corps War Memorial

This stunning bronze 78-foot statue will stir emotions of the 6,800 soldiers who died during WWII. These brave young men died while trying to capture the tiny Japanese island of Iwo Jima and are remembered in the hearts of Americans to this day. This war memorial stands as a symbol of America's esteem for the honoured dead of the US Marine Corps and is a must-see, if only to marvel at its unique beauty.

2. Arlington Historical Museum

The Arlington Historical Museum is owned and operated by the Historical society and is a must-see if you wish to experience the true depths of Arlington's history. The museum is close to the Pentagon City and Crystal City Metrorail stations, making it easy to find.

The museum is housed in the oldest school building in Arlington County and has now become a designated Virginia State Historical Landmark, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Full of fascinating artefacts, this museum is simply a must-see if history is what you are after.

3. Theodore Roosevelt Island Park

Get back in touch with nature and pay a visit to the Theodore Roosevelt Island Park and be transported into a world that boasts the simple pleasures in life. Enjoy a family picnic in a park that is a fitting memorial to an outdoors man, naturalist and visionary who was the 26th President of the US.

The island is open every day from dawn until dusk and is easily accessible from the northbound lanes of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. There are also some other fascinating sites along this stretch of road, including Arlington House, Bell Haven Park and Marina, The Clara Barton National Historic City, as well as the US Marine Corps War Memorial.

4. Art Museum of the Americas

For all those art fanatics out there, you won't be able to get enough of the Art Museum of the Americas. The museum places particular emphasis on the modern and contemporary art from Latin America and the Caribbean, with over 2000 objects calling the museum home. The art here ranges from paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings and photographs, offering a diverse range of art that will keep all fanatics happy.

The unique collection of the museum serves to preserve a unique visual and written record of the artistic achievements of artists of the Americas and their contributions to world art. It is a truly magical place to visit and you won't leave disappointed.

5. John F. Kennedy Gravesite

Although a visit to a cemetery may sound to you like a depressing experience, a visit the Arlington National Cemetery is guaranteed to be far from this. This cemetery is a truly sacred place that held very special meaning for President John F. Kennedy. His grave rests on the hillside near the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington House, cementing his strong presence in American political history.

Upon arrival at the cemetery, make sure you pop into the Visitors Centre where you will find maps, guidebooks exhibits and a book store, ensuring that you do not get lost in the history that seems to emanate from this place.

Arlington is a great place to visit if you wish to experience the perks of Washington DC, without the crowds. Steeped in political and war time history, this brilliant city is perfect for the historical holiday of a lifetime.

Christine Barton