Gittings, Fort Myer, VA

Gittings Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Gittings is a quiet, residential enclave situated within the larger Fort Myer Heights neighborhood of Arlington, Virginia. It is located directly adjacent to the U.S. Army post of Fort Myer itself, creating a unique atmosphere of serene, tree-lined streets with a backdrop of historic military significance. The neighborhood is bounded roughly by Washington Boulevard to the south, North Meade Street to the east, and the grounds of Fort Myer to the north and west, placing it just minutes from the dynamic Rosslyn-Ballston corridor and a short commute across the Potomac River to Washington, D.C.

The area's history is deeply intertwined with Fort Myer, established as Fort Whipple during the Civil War. While the military installation evolved, the surrounding civilian neighborhood developed in the early to mid-20th century, with much of its housing stock built during the 1940s and 1950s. The character of Gittings is defined by its sense of privacy, stability, and a strong community feel, offering a suburban-like retreat within an intensely urban county. Its elevated position provides some homes with stunning views of the Washington Monument and the D.C. skyline.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Gittings is predominantly composed of detached single-family homes, many of which are classic Colonial, Cape Cod, and rambler styles from the mid-century era. Lot sizes are generous for Arlington, often featuring mature landscaping that enhances the neighborhood's secluded, park-like ambiance. There is also a smattering of larger, custom-built homes on the ridges with premium views. The neighborhood is almost exclusively owner-occupied, with a very low turnover rate reflecting the high desirability and long-term satisfaction of its residents.

Real estate prices in Gittings are among the highest in Arlington County, consistently commanding a premium due to the lot sizes, quiet character, and prestigious location. Homes frequently sell in the multi-million dollar range. The market is competitive, with inventory typically low. Recent trends show continued strong demand, with many buyers undertaking significant renovations or complete teardowns and rebuilds to modernize homes while maintaining the established neighborhood aesthetic and scale.

Schools & Education

Families in Gittings are served by some of the most highly regarded schools in the state. The neighborhood is zoned for the Arlington Public Schools system, specifically the Ashlawn Elementary School, Swanson Middle School, and Washington-Liberty High School cluster. This cluster is consistently ranked at the top for academic performance, extracurricular offerings, and college preparedness. The proximity to these excellent public schools is a primary driver for family-oriented buyers in the area.

Beyond the public system, numerous prestigious private and independent school options are within a short drive. These include the Bishop O'Connell High School in Arlington and various elite schools in Washington, D.C., such as Georgetown Day School and Sidwell Friends. For higher education, the neighborhood's central location provides easy access to George Mason University's Arlington campus, Georgetown University, and George Washington University.

Parks & Recreation

Residents enjoy immediate access to significant green and recreational spaces. The most prominent is the 100-acre Arlington National Cemetery, which borders the neighborhood to the east and offers solemn, beautifully maintained grounds for reflective walks. Just to the north, the active Fort Myer post contains historic sites, parade grounds, and the Old Guard Museum. While base access is restricted, the adjacent presence adds to the open, uncrowded feel.

For active recreation, the nearby Arlington Boulevard Trail and connecting network of sidewalks are popular for walking, running, and cycling. The neighborhood is also a short distance from the extensive trails of the Potomac Riverfront, including Theodore Roosevelt Island, a natural wilderness preserve. For organized sports and community parks, residents often utilize facilities in nearby Lyon Village or at the Quincy Park complex, which features tennis courts, playgrounds, and athletic fields.

Local Dining & Shopping

Gittings itself is strictly residential, but it is surrounded by some of Arlington's most vibrant commercial corridors. The Rosslyn metro district, just a five-minute drive south, offers a dense concentration of restaurants, from casual eateries and coffee shops to upscale dining with views of the D.C. skyline. The Clarendon and Courthouse neighborhoods, further along the Orange Line, provide a walkable mix of national retailers, boutique shops, gourmet markets, and a thriving nightlife scene.

For everyday needs, the nearby Lee Harrison Shopping Center on Lee Highway offers a Harris Teeter grocery store, a post office, and several local service businesses. The Westover neighborhood, to the west, is another favorite local destination, known for its old-school butcher, bakeries, beer garden, and eclectic restaurants. This setup allows Gittings residents to enjoy supreme convenience and urban amenities while returning home to a peaceful, insulated environment.

Who Lives Here

The Gittings neighborhood attracts a mix of established professionals, high-ranking government and military officials, and families seeking top-tier schools within a tranquil setting. Many residents have long tenures, contributing to a stable and tight-knit community atmosphere where neighbors know each other. The demographic tends to be well-educated, with households often comprising senior-level professionals in law, consulting, defense, and federal government.

The community vibe is one of understated elegance and privacy, with an emphasis on quiet enjoyment of one's home and surroundings. It draws those who value proximity to the power centers of Washington, D.C., but who prioritize space, greenery, and a sense of retreat over immediate walkability to bars and shops. It is a neighborhood for those who

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