If you’re searching for a neighborhood in Arlington, VA that blends historic charm, family-friendliness, and easy access to the excitement of DC, Tara should definitely be on your radar. Tara is a small, inviting enclave tucked between the bustling Lee Highway (now Langston Boulevard) and Glebe Road, set just west of Ballston and north of Bluemont. From lovely tree-canopied streets to top-rated schools, here’s what it’s like to truly live in Tara.
Community Vibe: Friendly, Quiet, and Connected
Tara residents often describe the neighborhood as “neighborly” in the truest sense of the word. There’s a subtle sense of belonging here — whether you’re chatting with a dog walker along N. Lexington Street or greeting parents during pickup at McKinley Elementary. Community traditions, like the annual block parties and Halloween parades centered around N. Jefferson Street, foster a genuine sense of camaraderie. Many folks wave hello as they pass, and neighbors often stop to chat in the yard — it’s the kind of place where people look out for each other without being intrusive.
Housing: A Picturesque Mix of Old and New
The residential character of Tara is best described as classic Arlington with a dash of elegant renovation.
- Homes date primarily from the 1940s and 1950s, with charming brick colonials and Cape Cods lining tree-shaded streets such as N. Potomac St and N. Harrison St.
- Recent years have seen tasteful expansions and tear-downs, but even the larger new builds tend to blend in with the established neighborhood look.
- Yards here are generous by Arlington standards, and manicured gardens are a common sight.
Condominiums and rental options are limited; most homes are owner-occupied single-family houses. This continuity gives Tara its cozy, settled feel.
Walkability and Convenience
Tara scores well when it comes to walkability, especially for daily errands and morning jogs:
- Within a mile, residents can stroll to several grocery stores — including Harris Teeter at Lee Harrison Shopping Center or Safeway on Langston Boulevard.
- Local favorites, such as Duck Donuts and Starbucks, as well as a mix of small shops and dining options, are accessible on foot or a quick bike ride.
- Sidewalks wind through every block, and crosswalks are conveniently marked — making Tara safe for walkers, kids, and strollers alike.
While Ballston Metro is about a mile away (walkable for most commuters), robust bus lines serve Glebe Rd and Langston Blvd, making public transit connections easy.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
One of the biggest draws to Tara is its excellent school pyramid:
- McKinley Elementary sits right in the neighborhood, with a reputation for nurturing teachers and active parental involvement.
- Swanson Middle School and Washington-Liberty High School are both nearby, each recognized for strong academics and a vibrant roster of extracurriculars.
The neighborhood is also home to several preschools and is within easy distance to places like the Arlington Traditional School and private options, making it a practical choice for families from infant through high school.
From ice cream socials at McKinley to weekend soccer at Tara-Leeway Heights Park, the area is practically designed for kids to thrive and play.
Parks and Green Spaces
Nature lovers and active families will find plenty to love:
- Tara-Leeway Heights Park is a favorite, with updated playgrounds, shaded picnic areas, tennis courts, and basketball hoops. On weekends, you’ll spot kids learning to ride bikes and neighbors organizing pickup games.
- The Custis Trail, a major biking and running route connecting Arlington to DC and Falls Church, is less than a mile away, perfect for outdoor exercise enthusiasts.
- Well-kept lawns and mature oaks lend the streets a park-like aura even in the heart of the residential blocks.
The presence of green spaces not only boosts Tara’s peaceful quality, but also enhances property values and the day-to-day experience of residents.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a hallmark of the Tara experience. Residents describe the neighborhood as peaceful, with low crime and active neighborhood watch programs. The sense of tranquility is reinforced by the slow residential traffic; families often let kids bike or scooter around nearby N. Potomac Street without worry. Community listservs and a vigilant homeowners association keep everyone connected and informed about local happenings.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Location is where Tara truly shines for commuters:
- Downtown DC is about 6 miles away — reachable in 15–25 minutes by car outside rush hour, with direct routes along Glebe Road or nearby I-66.
- Ballston, home to many employers and a dynamic urban scene, is less than a 10-minute drive or a brisk walk/bike ride.
- For Amazon HQ2 employees, Crystal City is just a short drive or Metro hop away.
This balance of easy city access with true neighborhood tranquility is rare in the DMV area and one of Tara’s greatest assets.
What Residents Love Most
Ask Tara locals what makes the area special, and you’ll reliably hear:
- That “small town in a big city” feeling, where people know their neighbors and pitch in to help.
- Beautiful, safe streets shaded by mature trees and lined with well-kept homes.
- The ability to walk or bike to nearly everything — from schools and grocery stores to parks and eateries.
- A strong sense of tradition, enhanced by community events and the lingering presence of families who have called Tara home for generations.
For many, choosing Tara means opting for community roots and a peaceful day-to-day life without sacrificing the perks of city living.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Tara isn’t just a change of address — it’s embracing a lifestyle centered on connection, walkability, and classic Arlington charm. Whether you’re looking for an inviting place to raise a family, settle in with a partner, or simply savor a slower pace within sight of Washington, DC, Tara is an Arlington gem worth considering.