Bellona-Gittings, Fort Myer, VA

Bellona-Gittings Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Bellona-Gittings is a charming, established residential neighborhood located in the heart of Arlington, Virginia, not Fort Myer. Fort Myer is a distinct, active U.S. Army post adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery. Bellona-Gittings, however, sits just east of the Yorktown Boulevard corridor, nestled between the Lee Highway (Route 29) to the south and the bustling commercial district of Cherrydale to the north. Its central location provides a serene, tree-lined retreat with outstanding accessibility to Washington, D.C., and the broader Northern Virginia region.

The neighborhood's character is defined by its mature canopy of oak and maple trees, gently rolling hills, and a cohesive collection of primarily Colonial, Cape Cod, and Tudor Revival homes built from the 1920s through the 1950s. Historically, it developed as a streetcar suburb, offering a peaceful alternative to city living while remaining connected via the Washington-Virginia Railway. This legacy is evident in its walkable, grid-like street pattern and strong sense of community, which has been carefully preserved over decades.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Bellona-Gittings is predominantly single-family homes, featuring classic brick and siding facades, spacious front porches, and well-maintained yards. Lot sizes are generous for inner-ring Arlington, and many homes have been thoughtfully expanded or renovated while respecting the neighborhood's traditional architectural aesthetic. The area also includes a smaller number of townhomes and duplexes, particularly along its perimeter streets.

Real estate in Bellona-Gittings is highly sought-after, commanding premium prices reflective of its location, lot sizes, and community appeal. Home prices consistently rank among the highest in Arlington County, typically ranging from $1.2 million to well over $2 million for renovated properties. The market is overwhelmingly owner-occupied, with a very low rental vacancy rate. Recent trends show continued strong demand, with homes often selling quickly, and a focus on modernizing interiors while enhancing outdoor living spaces.

Schools & Education

Families in Bellona-Gittings are served by some of the highest-rated schools in the state. The neighborhood is zoned for the Arlington Public Schools system, specifically the Yorktown High School pyramid. Students typically attend Jamestown Elementary School and Williamsburg Middle School, both of which are consistently recognized for academic excellence and strong community involvement. The proximity to these highly desirable schools is a significant driver of the area's real estate demand.

Beyond the exceptional public schools, residents have access to numerous private and parochial school options in nearby communities, such as St. Agnes School in Cherrydale. The neighborhood's central location also provides easy access to Marymount University and is a short Metro ride to the universities and cultural institutions of Washington, D.C. The community places a high value on education, which is reflected in strong parent-teacher associations and neighborhood support for school initiatives.

Parks & Recreation

Bellona-Gittings is renowned for its access to green space, most notably the 67-acre Upton Hill Regional Park, which sits directly on its western border. This park offers a public swimming pool, mini-golf, batting cages, walking trails, and picnic areas, serving as a recreational hub for the community. Within the neighborhood itself, the small but beloved Gittings Garden park provides a quiet, shaded spot for relaxation and community gatherings.

Residents also enjoy easy access to the W&OD Trail via the nearby Four Mile Run trail network, ideal for cycling, running, and walking. The neighborhood's walkable streets and low traffic volumes make it popular for evening strolls and family bike rides. For organized sports, the community is close to the fields and facilities at Yorktown High School and the programs offered through Arlington County's Department of Parks and Recreation.

Local Dining & Shopping

While Bellona-Gittings itself is strictly residential, its perimeter is lined with an array of convenient and beloved businesses. The commercial node at the intersection of Lee Highway and North Harrison Street, often considered the neighborhood's "front door," features staples like the Italian Store, a legendary deli and pizzeria, and distinctive spots like Bakeshop and Cafe. Just north in Cherrydale, residents find a wider selection of restaurants, cafes, and services along Lee Highway.

Daily shopping needs are met at the nearby Giant Food on Lee Highway or the Fresh Market in Cherrydale. For more extensive retail, the vibrant Ballston Quarter and the shops of Clarendon are only a short drive or bus ride away. The neighborhood's commercial proximity strikes an ideal balance—offering walkable access to essential amenities while preserving the quiet, residential character of its interior streets.

Who Lives Here

Bellona-Gittings attracts a mix of established families, professionals, and long-term residents who value stability, community, and proximity to D.C. The population is largely composed of dual-income households working in government, law, technology, and other professional sectors. Many residents are deeply involved in neighborhood affairs, participating in the active civic association that organizes social events, maintains the community garden, and advocates on local issues.

The community vibe is one of understated elegance and strong neighborly bonds. It is a place where residents know each other, children play in front yards, and neighborhood potlucks are common. People are drawn here for the quintessential "village-in-the-city" feel—a safe, beautiful, and connected environment with top-tier schools and a profound sense of place that has been carefully cultivated over generations.

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