Retail Trails

Beat the Heat in Arlington
Summer 2009

"Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it."

Judging by his quote, the Pulitzer Prize-winning satirist Russell Baker definitely knows what a Virginia summer can be like. Yes, it can be deliriously hot and chokingly humid, but in addition to all the suffering, there are also lots of reasons to like, and maybe even love, summer in Arlington.

For example, if you’re the active sort, check out Bike Arlington's 113-mile bicycle network of trails, bike lanes, and bike routes. Big Wheels Bikes is conveniently located right off the Custis Trail and offers hourly and daily rentals. For picnic fare, local favorite The Italian Store) is just a couple doors down.

If something more low-key is in the cards, enjoy a refreshing glass of sangria at La Tasca or Mexicali Blues. La Tasca offers 11 different varieties by the glass or pitcher, while Mexicali Blues supplements its tasty concoction with daily food specials. Bonus: The Clarendon Farmers Market is Wednesdays 2-7 p.m. at the Clarendon Metro!

Lastly, if your kids are bouncing off the walls, let the Superheroes take over – the ones in Crystal City, that is. Mondays at sundown, grab a blanket and see the X-Men, the Fantastic Four, and Batman for free on the big screen under the stars. Let local restaurants like Café Pizzaiolo or El Pollito take care of dinner and then cool off with a tasty treat from Cold Stone Creamery.

Highlighted Retailers

Bike Arlington

Big Wheels Bikes
3119 Lee Highway
(703) 522-1110

The Italian Store
3123 Lee Highway
(703) 528-6266

La Tasca
2900 Wilson Boulevard
(703) 812-9120

Mexicali Blues
2933 Wilson Boulevard
(703) 812-9352

Café Pizzaiolo
507 23rd Street S
(703) 894-2250

Cold Stone Creamery
2200 Crystal Drive
(703) 418-2223

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