Nestled in North Arlington, the Old Dominion neighborhood is one of those quietly wonderful enclaves that many visitors miss but locals cherish. With its leafy streets, welcoming community, and proximity to both bustling city amenities and serene parks, Old Dominion delivers an exceptional quality of life. If you’re considering a move or just want a candid look into neighborhood living, here’s what makes Old Dominion stand out.
Community Vibe: Friendly and Welcoming
Life in Old Dominion is defined by friendly faces, well-tended yards, and an active sense of community. Residents here know their neighbors by name, wave hello on evening walks down Williamsburg Boulevard or North Columbus Street, and are quick to share recommendations on the best local dry cleaner or family restaurant. Community events like neighborhood block parties, Halloween parades, and spring yard sales are the norm, fostering connection and a strong sense of belonging.
While you’ll find young professionals attracted by the easy DC commute, Old Dominion’s heart is in its families and long-time residents, many of whom have lived here for decades. There’s a palpable pride in keeping Old Dominion clean, safe, and welcoming—something newcomers feel immediately.
Housing: A Blend of Classic and Contemporary
Old Dominion offers a diverse mix of housing, with something for nearly everyone. Most of the homes are single-family, many dating back to the 1930s and 1940s. Expect to see charming brick Colonials, Cape Cods, and ramblers, often updated with modern interiors while retaining their classic curb appeal.
- Streets like North Vermont Street and North Randolph Street are lined with stately homes and mature trees.
- Infill new construction is also slowly finding its way into the neighborhood, adding stylish modern homes alongside the more traditional stock.
- Yards tend to be larger than average for Arlington, offering both beauty and privacy—ideal for gardening enthusiasts, outdoor entertaining, or simply letting the kids play.
Though townhouse and apartment options are limited within Old Dominion proper, neighboring pockets of Arlington provide these alternatives within a short commute.
Walkability and Daily Convenience
While Old Dominion has a decidedly suburban feel, it’s far from isolated. The neighborhood is very walkable, particularly for daily essentials and recreation. You’ll see strollers, joggers, and dog walkers on the sidewalks—especially along streets close to the Lee Heights Shops and Dominion Hills Shopping Center.
- The Lee Heights Shops (on Old Dominion Drive) feature the beloved Arrowine & Cheese, Crisp & Juicy, and Pastries by Randolph—a favorite for weekend treats.
- Safeway and Starbucks are tucked just outside the border, making errands a breeze.
- Multiple Metrobus routes serve the area, though a car remains helpful for further outings or commuting.
On weekends, it’s common to see families walking to neighborhood parks or grabbing coffee from local spots on Old Dominion Drive.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
For families, Old Dominion is a standout choice, particularly for its access to highly rated Arlington Public Schools. The area feeds into:
- Nottingham Elementary (not far on North Little Falls Road)
- Williamsburg Middle School
- Yorktown High School
These institutions are known for academic excellence, strong sports programs, and active parent associations. The neighborhood’s quiet streets and proximity to playgrounds and green spaces mean you’ll often see kids biking or walking to school—an increasingly rare suburban perk.
Neighbors often highlight the close-knit “village” feel for parents: think babysitting swaps, holiday cookie exchanges, and neighborhood Facebook groups that keep everyone in the loop.
Parks and Green Spaces: An Outdoor Paradise
One of the true treasures of Old Dominion is its access to nature.
- Zachary Taylor Park (at the end of 30th Street North) offers woodsy trails, a peaceful creek, and picnic areas ideal for a weekend escape.
- The nearby Donaldson Run Trail is a local favorite for jogging, birdwatching, or dog walking. It’s especially lovely in the spring when wildflowers bloom.
- Greenbrier Park, just a short drive or bike ride, boasts sports fields, playgrounds, and a popular farmers market.
Many homes back up to or are just a short walk from these protected parklands, giving the neighborhood a tranquil, “urban canopy” atmosphere.
Safety: Peace of Mind
Safety is one of the most reassuring aspects of living in Old Dominion. With its quiet cul-de-sacs and tree-shaded streets, crime is exceptionally low. Neighborhood watches are active, and residents look out for one another. The Arlington County Police maintain a visible community presence, often stopping by block parties or chatting with dog-walkers.
Streets are calm, traffic is minimal, and sidewalks are well-lit—another plus for families with children or those who enjoy evening strolls.
Location: Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Old Dominion offers a near-perfect balance of suburban tranquility and urban access. It straddles Old Dominion Drive, making it a quick drive or bus ride to central Arlington, Ballston, or downtown DC.
- Commuters enjoy easy access to major arteries like Glebe Road and Lee Highway (Route 29).
- The Ballston Metro (Orange and Silver lines) is less than 10 minutes away by car or bike.
- Major employers—Amazon HQ2 in National Landing, federal offices in DC, and various Arlington tech firms—are all within reasonable reach.
For evenings and weekends, you’ll find yourself close to both the cultural happenings of DC and Arlington’s dining and shopping hubs, all without sacrificing peace and quiet at home.
What Residents Love Most
Ask any Old Dominion local what keeps them rooted, and you’ll hear common themes:
- The genuine sense of community and neighborly support.
- Beautiful, well-loved homes surrounded by mature trees and parks.
- Top-notch schools and a family-first spirit.
- The rare ability to unplug in nature or quickly access the best of Arlington and DC.
Many say Old Dominion offers “the best of both worlds”—a place where you can leave your car keys behind, let children roam, and still sample the restaurants, nightlife, and career opportunities of the region.
Final Thoughts
If you're searching for an Arlington neighborhood with timeless charm, a close community, access to trails and parks, and excellent schools—all with a laid-back, welcoming vibe—Old Dominion is hard to beat. It’s a place where neighbors wave hello, porch lights glow softly at dusk, and it’s not unusual for a quick errand to turn into a 20-minute chat.
Whether you’re looking to set down roots or just a peaceful place to call home, Old Dominion delivers the comfort, convenience, and charm that make Arlington special.