How to Get Around Arlington Without a Car

Arlington, Virginia, is a vibrant urban county just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., known for its diverse neighborhoods, thriving cultural scene, and strong transit infrastructure. Despite its proximity to the nation’s capital, many residents and visitors find themselves navigating life without a personal vehicle—whether due to cost, environmental values, lifestyle preferences, or temporary circumstances. The good news? Getting around Arlington without a car isn’t just possible; it’s often more efficient, affordable, and enjoyable than driving. From seamless metro connections to bike-friendly boulevards and on-demand shuttles, Arlington has built a transportation ecosystem designed for those who choose to go car-free. This comprehensive guide walks you through every aspect of non-automotive mobility in Arlington, offering actionable steps, expert tips, real-world examples, and essential tools to help you move confidently and comfortably across the county—no keys required.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand Arlington’s Transit Network

Before you begin your car-free journey, familiarize yourself with the backbone of Arlington’s public transportation: the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), locally known as Metro. Arlington is served by five Metro stations on the Orange, Silver, and Blue Lines: Arlington Cemetery, Crystal City, Pentagon City, Pentagon, and Rosslyn. These stations connect directly to downtown D.C., Alexandria, and beyond. In addition to Metro, Arlington Transit (ART) operates 17 local bus routes that feed into Metro stations and serve key destinations like the Pentagon, Ballston, Shirlington, and the University of Arlington. ART buses run frequently during peak hours and maintain reliable service until midnight on weekdays, with reduced but consistent weekend schedules.

To navigate effectively, map your most common destinations—work, grocery stores, gyms, restaurants—and identify the nearest Metro station and connecting ART route. Use the WMATA trip planner or Google Maps with transit enabled to simulate your commute. Many Arlington residents find that combining a short walk to a Metro station with a 10-minute bus ride gets them to their destination faster than driving during rush hour, especially when parking is limited or expensive.

2. Master the Use of Metro and ART

Using Metro and ART requires minimal setup. Purchase a SmarTrip card at any Metro station, CVS, or grocery store in Arlington. These reloadable cards work across all WMATA services, including Metrobus, Metrorail, and ART. You can also load your SmarTrip onto the WMATA mobile app for contactless tapping. Avoid cash fares—they cost more and slow down boarding.

ART buses have digital displays showing arrival times and route numbers. Use the ART Tracker tool on the Arlington County website to see real-time bus locations. Plan your trips during off-peak hours if you prefer less crowded rides, or take advantage of the “Rush Hour Express” routes (like ART 22A and 22B) that offer faster service between major employment centers. Always validate your SmarTrip card when boarding ART buses—failure to tap may result in a fine.

3. Leverage the Arlington Bike Share Program

Arlington launched its own bike-share system in partnership with Lyft in 2021, replacing the previous program with 300+ electric-assist bikes and 50+ docking stations across high-demand corridors. Stations are located near Metro stops, shopping districts, parks, and libraries. The system is affordable: $3 for a 30-minute ride, with monthly and annual memberships available for frequent users. Bikes can be unlocked via the Lyft app, which also shows real-time availability and recommended routes.

For longer trips or hilly terrain, the electric assist makes cycling accessible to nearly everyone, regardless of fitness level. Arlington’s extensive network of protected bike lanes—over 150 miles total—makes cycling safe even for beginners. Key routes include the Custis Trail, which runs parallel to I-66 and connects Rosslyn to the Pentagon, and the Mount Vernon Trail along the Potomac, ideal for weekend excursions to Old Town Alexandria.

4. Utilize On-Demand Ride Services

While not a replacement for public transit, on-demand ride services like Uber and Lyft play a critical supporting role in a car-free lifestyle. Use them strategically: for late-night trips after Metro shuts down, for carrying groceries, or for connecting to destinations not directly served by ART. Arlington County has partnered with Lyft to offer discounted rides for low-income residents through the “Arlington Access” program. Eligible individuals can receive up to $50 in monthly credits—apply through the county’s social services portal.

Consider using shared ride options (UberPool, Lyft Line) to reduce cost and environmental impact. These services are particularly useful during evening hours when ART buses run less frequently. Many residents combine a morning Metro ride with an evening Lyft home to avoid waiting for the last bus.

5. Walk with Confidence

Arlington is one of the most walkable counties in the United States. According to Walk Score, neighborhoods like Ballston, Clarendon, and Courthouse rank among the top 10 walkable areas in the country. Sidewalks are wide, well-maintained, and ADA-compliant. Traffic signals are timed for pedestrian safety, and crosswalks are clearly marked with countdown timers.

Plan walking routes using the Arlington County Walk Map, available online or at public libraries. Key pedestrian corridors include Wilson Boulevard, S. Glebe Road, and N. Glebe Road—all lined with cafes, pharmacies, bookstores, and parks. Many residents walk to work, especially those employed in the Pentagon, Crystal City, or Rosslyn. A 20-minute walk from Ballston to the Metro station is common and pleasant, even in winter, thanks to heated sidewalks at major intersections.

6. Explore Micro-Mobility Options

In addition to bike-share, Arlington permits the use of electric scooters and e-bikes from approved providers like Lime, Spin, and Bird. These are ideal for short hops—say, from a Metro station to your office, or from your apartment to a nearby grocery. Scooters are restricted to bike lanes and sidewalks in certain zones; always check local ordinances via the county’s mobility website. Most apps require you to park within designated “hubs” to avoid fines. Use these services sparingly and responsibly to avoid cluttering public spaces.

7. Coordinate with Community Resources

Arlington County offers free or low-cost transportation support for seniors, people with disabilities, and residents in underserved areas. The “Arlington Access” program includes door-to-door van service for eligible individuals. Applications are processed through the Department of Human Services. Even if you don’t qualify, many community centers, churches, and nonprofits organize carpool networks or volunteer driver programs for medical appointments and shopping trips. Check the Arlington Community Calendar or visit the Arlington Public Library for flyers and bulletin boards listing local ride-sharing initiatives.

8. Plan for Weather and Seasonal Challenges

Rain, snow, and heat can make transit less appealing—but Arlington is prepared. Most ART buses are equipped with climate control and real-time tracking. Metro stations have covered platforms and heated seating in winter. For cyclists, the county provides free bike storage lockers at major transit hubs. In winter, Arlington Public Works clears sidewalks and bike paths within 24 hours of snowfall. Keep a small emergency kit in your bag: a foldable rain poncho, hand warmers, and a portable phone charger. Many libraries and coffee shops offer free Wi-Fi and seating, making them ideal waiting spots during delays.

Best Practices

1. Build a Multi-Modal Routine

The most successful car-free residents don’t rely on one mode of transport—they combine them. A typical weekday might look like: walk to the Metro station, ride the Silver Line to downtown D.C., take a Lyft to a meeting in Georgetown, return via Metro, and bike home from Crystal City. This flexibility reduces stress and increases efficiency. Create a weekly transportation calendar in your phone or planner, noting which mode works best for each destination and time of day.

2. Time Your Trips Strategically

Peak hours (7–9 a.m. and 4–7 p.m.) mean crowded trains and buses. If your schedule allows, shift your commute by 30–60 minutes to avoid congestion. ART buses are often less crowded midday, and Metro trains run more frequently during rush hour, so prioritize speed over comfort when necessary. Use the WMATA app to check train crowding levels before boarding.

3. Pack Light and Smart

Carrying groceries, work gear, or a laptop on transit requires planning. Invest in a lightweight, wheeled backpack or a foldable shopping cart that fits under bus seats or in Metro train storage areas. Many Arlington grocery stores offer delivery for orders over $35, eliminating the need to haul heavy bags. Consider using Amazon Locker pickup points located at Metro stations and community centers for convenient, no-contact parcel retrieval.

4. Stay Informed and Flexible

Service disruptions happen. Metro may delay trains for signal issues; ART buses can get rerouted during construction. Subscribe to Arlington County’s transportation alerts via email or text. Follow @ArlingtonTransit on Twitter for real-time updates. Always have a backup plan: if your bus is delayed, check if you can walk to the next stop or catch a Lyft. Flexibility reduces frustration and keeps you on schedule.

5. Advocate for Better Infrastructure

Public transit improves when users speak up. Attend Arlington County’s monthly Mobility and Transportation Committee meetings (open to the public) or submit feedback through the county’s “311” portal. Report broken bike racks, overgrown sidewalks, or unsafe crosswalks. Community input has led to expanded bike lanes, extended ART hours, and improved lighting at Metro entrances. Your voice helps shape a better car-free future.

6. Embrace the Social Benefits

Traveling without a car opens doors to unexpected connections. You’ll chat with neighbors on the bus, learn about local events from fellow commuters, and discover hidden gems—like a new bakery on Wilson Boulevard or a pop-up art show near the Courthouse Metro. Car-free living fosters a stronger sense of community. Keep a journal or photo log of your discoveries; it reinforces the joy of exploration without a vehicle.

7. Budget Wisely

While eliminating car payments, insurance, and gas saves hundreds monthly, transit and ride services still cost money. Create a monthly mobility budget: allocate $50–$100 for transit passes, $20–$50 for occasional Lyft rides, and $15 for bike-share subscriptions. Use the Arlington County Transit Discount Program for reduced fares if you qualify. Track spending with apps like Mint or YNAB to stay within limits. Over time, the savings compared to car ownership—often $8,000–$12,000 annually—can fund travel, hobbies, or savings goals.

Tools and Resources

1. WMATA App

The official Washington Metro app provides real-time train and bus arrivals, trip planning, service alerts, and fare information. Download it for iOS or Android. It integrates with SmarTrip cards and allows you to reload balances directly from your phone.

2. Arlington Transit (ART) Tracker

Visit arlingtonva.us/arttracker to view live bus locations, estimated arrival times, and route maps. You can also text your stop number to 31141 to receive arrival updates.

3. Google Maps (Transit Mode)

Google Maps is one of the most reliable tools for multi-modal routing. Enable “Transit” mode and input your origin and destination. It will suggest combinations of walking, Metro, ART, and bike-share options with estimated times and costs.

4. Arlington County Walk Map

Download the official pedestrian map at arlingtonva.us/walking. This interactive PDF highlights sidewalks, crosswalks, curb ramps, and rest areas. Print a copy for your wallet or save it offline.

5. Lyft App (for Arlington Access)

Download the Lyft app and register for the Arlington Access program if you meet income eligibility criteria. You’ll receive monthly ride credits and access to discounted rates. Even without the program, Lyft offers “Shared” rides at lower prices than solo trips.

6. Bikeshare Arlington App

Available on iOS and Android, this app lets you locate, unlock, and pay for electric bikes. It includes route suggestions based on elevation and safety, and shows battery levels before you rent.

7. Arlington Community Calendar

Check arlingtonva.us/events for free public events, shuttle services to festivals, and pop-up transit info sessions. Many events offer free transit passes for attendees.

8. Arlington Public Library Resources

Libraries across Arlington offer free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and printed transit guides. Staff can help you plan routes, print maps, or connect you with community mobility programs. Ask about “Mobility Kits”—free loaner bags with a reusable water bottle, portable charger, and transit map.

9. TransitCenter and Smart Cities Resources

For deeper insights into urban mobility trends, visit transitcenter.org and explore Arlington’s own “Mobility 2040” plan at arlingtonva.us/mobility2040. These resources provide context for why Arlington’s car-free infrastructure is among the most advanced in the U.S.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, Marketing Manager, Lives in Clarendon

Maria works at a startup in Crystal City. She lives in Clarendon, a 15-minute walk from the Clarendon Metro station. Every morning, she walks to the station, takes the Orange Line to Pentagon City (two stops), and transfers to the free Crystal City Circulator shuttle—a small electric bus that runs every 10 minutes. Her total commute: 28 minutes. On Fridays, she bikes home via the Custis Trail, stopping at a café along the way. She spends $45/month on her SmarTrip card and $10 on bike-share. She saved $9,000 in the first year by not owning a car.

Example 2: James, Retired Teacher, Uses Arlington Access

James, 72, lives in the Arlington Ridge neighborhood. He no longer drives due to declining vision. He uses Arlington Access to get to his weekly doctor’s appointments at Arlington Memorial Hospital. The van picks him up at his door and drops him off at the entrance. He also takes ART buses to the library and grocery store. He receives $50 in monthly ride credits and pays nothing out of pocket for essential trips. “I feel independent again,” he says. “I don’t have to beg my kids for rides.”

Example 3: Priya and Sam, College Students, Share a Bike

Priya and Sam are students at the University of Arlington. They live in a shared apartment near the Ballston Metro station. Instead of buying two bikes, they split a single bike-share membership. They use it for weekend errands—grocery runs, visiting museums, or biking to the Potomac River. They take the Metro to class and use Lyft only for late-night study sessions. Their monthly transportation cost: $35. They’ve never felt the need for a car.

Example 4: The Rodriguez Family, Visiting from Out of Town

The Rodriguez family spent a long weekend in Arlington without renting a car. They stayed at a hotel near the Pentagon City Metro station. They walked to local restaurants, took the Silver Line to the National Mall, used Lyft for a trip to Mount Vernon, and rented bikes for a sunset ride on the Mount Vernon Trail. “We saw more of Arlington than we would’ve in a car,” says Maria Rodriguez. “We stopped to talk to street artists, found a hidden ice cream shop, and got lost in the best way possible.”

Example 5: Carlos, Delivery Driver, Uses E-Bike

Carlos works for a local food delivery service. He replaced his motorcycle with an electric cargo bike through a county incentive program. He can carry three orders at once, parks anywhere, and avoids traffic jams. He charges his bike overnight at his apartment. His delivery times have improved, and his fuel costs dropped to zero. He now earns more per hour because he spends less time stuck in traffic.

FAQs

Is it really possible to live in Arlington without a car?

Absolutely. Over 40% of Arlington households do not own a car—among the highest rates in the U.S. for a suburban county. With Metro, ART, bike lanes, walkable neighborhoods, and ride-sharing options, daily needs—from work and groceries to healthcare and entertainment—are easily accessible without a vehicle.

How safe is biking in Arlington?

Very. Arlington has invested over $100 million in protected bike lanes, bike signals, and educational campaigns. The county consistently ranks in the top 5 for bike safety in the U.S. Always wear a helmet, use lights at night, and follow traffic rules. The city also offers free helmet giveaways at community events.

What if I need to travel outside Arlington?

Metro connects directly to D.C., Alexandria, and parts of Maryland. For longer trips, Amtrak and VRE commuter rail serve Arlington stations. Greyhound and Megabus stop at Pentagon City. Ride-share apps can take you to regional airports or train stations. Plan ahead using Google Maps or the WMATA trip planner.

Are there discounts for students, seniors, or low-income residents?

Yes. Seniors (65+) and people with disabilities receive 50% off Metro fares with a SmarTrip card registered for reduced fare. Students at participating institutions can apply for discounted passes. Low-income residents qualify for Arlington Access, offering ride credits and transit discounts. Visit the county’s transportation website for application forms.

What do I do if I miss the last Metro or ART bus?

Use Lyft or Uber for late-night rides. ART buses run until midnight on weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends. After that, Lyft offers discounted late-night fares in Arlington. Some employers provide shuttle services for employees working late. Always check the last departure times on the WMATA app before heading out.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair on ART buses and Metro?

Yes. All ART buses and Metro stations are fully ADA-compliant. Buses have ramps and priority seating. Metro elevators are available at every station. If you need assistance, ask the bus operator or station attendant—they’re trained to help.

How do I report a broken sidewalk or missing bike rack?

Use the Arlington 311 app or website. You can upload photos, describe the issue, and track its resolution. Most problems are addressed within 5 business days.

Is public transit reliable during snow or storms?

Yes. Arlington prioritizes clearing sidewalks and bike paths after snowfall. Metro and ART maintain service during most weather events, though delays may occur. The county issues alerts via email and social media. Always check before heading out.

Can I use my bike on the Metro?

Yes. Bikes are allowed on Metro trains during off-peak hours (9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. and after 7 p.m. on weekdays, all day weekends). Use the designated bike cars (front and back of each train). During peak hours, foldable bikes are permitted, but full-size bikes are restricted.

What if I need to carry heavy items?

Use grocery delivery services (Walmart, Whole Foods, Amazon Fresh), which offer same-day delivery in Arlington. Many local stores also offer curbside pickup. For occasional heavy loads, Lyft offers “XL” vehicles with extra cargo space. Or, use the Arlington County “Ride for Goods” program—free van service for seniors and disabled residents to pick up large items from stores.

Conclusion

Living without a car in Arlington isn’t a compromise—it’s a smarter, more connected, and often more rewarding way to live. The county’s intentional investment in transit, walkability, and sustainable mobility has created a model for urban living that prioritizes people over pavement. Whether you’re a student, a professional, a retiree, or a visitor, the tools, routes, and community support are already in place to make car-free living not just feasible, but enjoyable.

Start small: walk to the nearest Metro station this week. Try a bike-share ride on the weekend. Use the ART Tracker app to plan your next grocery run. Over time, you’ll discover that the rhythm of life without a car is slower, more intentional, and deeply integrated with the community around you. You’ll save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and gain a deeper appreciation for the places you live and the people you share them with.

Arlington proves that mobility doesn’t require a steering wheel—it requires awareness, planning, and a willingness to explore. You already have everything you need to get started. All you have to do is step out the door.