Welcome to Arlington, WA

Arlington, Washington is a city of grit, vigor, and artistry. It’s a town molded from muraled, sun-baked bricks and smalltown stucco storefronts crouching in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains.

Rooted at the confluence of the north and south forks of the Stillaguamish River (a freshwater mecca for anglers where the pastime of flyfishing was elevated to an art from), the town’s bounty is carried to market: fresh produce, eggs, flowers, and dairy in abundance.

When you visit Arlington, you also become part of the story of this place. It’s a story of how staying close the land and your community fosters an appreciation for authenticity. It’s a story best appreciated over a cup of no-nonsense diner coffee that reflects the neon lights of another passing day in paradise.

Choose Arlington for Agritourism

Trip Inspiration

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How did Arlington get its name?

Interesting story here. This area was actually originally home to two cities: Haller City and Arlington. They had a rather heated rivalry, seeing which city could be the area’s most economically viable municipality. Eventually Arlington absorbed Haller City and here we are.

The name Arlington has Anglo-Saxon origins and is derived from the Old English elements 'earl' (meaning nobleman) and 'tun' (meaning settlement or town). Thus, it signifies "the town or estate of the earl" or "the nobleman's settlement". Additionally, it can be interpreted as "the noble's town". The first part, "Arling," suggests a connection to individuals of high social status or noble lineage. Overall, Arlington reflects a heritage of nobility and settlement.

Need to relieve stress?

Funny you should mention it! Arlington Pickers has a “therapy” booth in the back of their store. You pay $1/dish (they even have a QR code with Venmo). You can then hurl the dish at a concrete wall painted with a rough circle for a target. We were hesitant at first, being passive folk, but a half-dozen dishes later, we found out that smashing dish after dish is remarkably cathartic.

Who serves up the best pie and coffee?

It’s hard to say. There’s team Bluebird Cafe and Team Stilly Diner. Which has the best smalltown diner vibes? I suppose you’ll have to try out both and let us know what you think!

Where can I find a secret, taxidermized mountain lion?

Ok. Go into Arlington Hardware and look for the upward-leading stairwell lined with wood paneling. Halfway up, turn around and look behind you. Meow!