The unofficial “county seat” of Arlington County, Courthouse is home to the county’s administrative complexes, government buildings, and courthouse. It is conveniently located near the popular Rosslyn and Clarendon neighborhoods. Courthouse is served by the Metro’s Orange and the Silver lines and is close to I-66, Route 1, and the George Washington Parkway.

Local History

Fort Woodbury, part of the “Arlington Line” of fortifications during the Civil War, once stood atop one of the highest hills in this part of Arlington. This site is now home of the Arlington County Courthouse. The fort was named for Major D.P. Woodbury, the engineer who designed and constructed it. Courthouse grew as a residential suburb throughout the early part of the twentieth century; its proximity to the Pentagon and the streetcar line made it an ideal location.

Local Real Estate

Courthouse housing options consist of condos, co-ops, townhomes and apartments. It is home to the first garden-style apartment complex built in the United States, Colonial Village. Colonial Village, which is now private condos, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Courthouse is also home to many high-rise residential buildings. Woodbury Heights, a high-rise condo building constructed in the 1980s, is named for the former fort on which it now sits.

Local Community

Courthouse Plaza hosts several spring and summer events, like outdoor concerts and a Saturday farmers market. Hillside Park is a well-groomed “urban forest” that makes the most of its natural tree canopy. The Courthouse area offers an diverse mix of restaurants and boutiques.

Local Favorites

Start your day at Bayou Bakery & Cafe for a taste of New Orleans – beignets and cafe au lait. For dinner, visit Ray’s the Steaks for mouthwatering steaks seasoned with a signature rub and grilled over an open flame. Courthaus Social has an outdoor beer garden offering craft brews, German food, and plenty of sports viewing action.