Explore Arlington Like a Local

Arlington, Washington, offers small-town charm within easy reach of major metropolitan cities. Just 40 miles from Seattle, this destination makes a great weekend trip when you want to head somewhere quiet where time seems to move just a little slower. Enjoy the highlights of Arlington with the wise touch of a local to experience the best of the city, even on a short visit.

Take in the Public Art

Arlington is a beautiful city to explore, thanks to an abundance of public art that keeps things interesting nearly anywhere you’re headed. You can take in most of the city’s pieces along a self-guided art walk from Olympic Hill over the Stillaguamish River. Twenty-seven pieces are incorporated in the Art Walk with several additional pieces scattered around the city. You’ll find everything from the Tribute to Arlington Firefighters on the Fire Department building to the Dairy Queens cow mural on the co-op at 1st Street and Olympic Avenue.

Visit the Kangaroos

Head to The Outback Kangaroo Farm for an engaging exotic animal tour that includes kangaroos, wallabies, llamas, lemurs, peacocks, pygmy goats, and more. Guided tours are available from March through October, Wednesday to Sunday. Each tour lasts about 40 minutes, giving you plenty of time to appreciate the unique animals featured in this habitat.

Grab Lunch at Moose Creek Barbeque

Moose Creek Barbeque is one of the most popular restaurants in Arlington. Enjoy lunch in the city like a local with delicious dining here. Everything is made from scratch, so you can get homemade flavor without the trouble of cooking yourself. Popular items include wood-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and smoked pulled chicken. The Moose Creek Classic features the smoked brisket with roasted onions and peppers, pepperoncini, and provolone on a grilled bun. Order ahead to make sure your favorite is set aside for you, even when it sells out.

Catch a Show at the Byrnes Performing Arts Center

The Byrnes Performing Arts Center hosts dance recitals, band concerts, and theatrical shows. It focuses on small groups and local performers, making this an ideal stop if you want to experience the city on a more personal level. This venue seats nearly 700 people in both an upper and lower section. Tickets to these local performances are typically an affordable pick. Free parking is available at the high school next door.

Attend the Eagle Festival

The Eagle Festival is an annual highlight in Arlington that takes place every February. The 10th Annual Eagle Festival will happen in 2017. Events include paddle rafting on the Stillaguamish River, the Country Carvers Chainsaw Carving Show, a Bird Identification Walk, and the Petting Farm Barn. This is a family-friendly event with several activities children will enjoy, from a special craft at the Stillaguamish Salmon Shop to the Sneaky Art: Random Acts of Creative Kindness activity.

With these popular highlights, you can enjoy the best of Arlington whether you’re in town for a fun afternoon or a long weekend. Hop in the car and head to Arlington for a memorable escape today.

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