Following an eagerly awaited period spanning nearly three years, the rejuvenated Crystal City Water Park made its grand opening this month in National Landing, VA. The 1.6-acre park showcases an array of exciting additions, including nine restaurant kiosks, a sophisticated cocktail and oyster bar, comfortable seating arrangements, captivating public art installations, innovative water features that encompass the original water wall, and a dynamic live performance stage. Water Park is located in National Landing at 1601 Crystal Drive Arlington, VA 22202 – just a quick few blocks from many Dweck Properties communities.

“Water Park is a really exciting addition to the neighborhood that has been a long time coming. What once was an underused, dated, open space has been transformed into a modern park, designed by well-known architects, Elkus Manfredi and Hoerr Schaudt. Water Park is unlike anything else we have in the DC region,” said Ben Wills, Director of Marketing and Communications of National Landing BID.

In addition to the charming kiosks, an elegant cocktail and oyster bar called “Water Bar,” graces the park, perched atop the mesmerizing water wall at the park’s rear. Operated by the renowned Atlanta-based hospitality group, STHRN, this restaurant boasts a raw bar that celebrates the bounties of the sea and an extensive cocktail selection. Water Park will embrace a “sip and stroll” concept, allowing visitors to savor alcoholic beverages while meandering through the enchanting space.

Water Park’s exciting new vendor lineup also includes:

• Brij Coffee
  Skyler Kelley, founder and entrepreneur of Brij Coffee, opened her business to provide excellent hospitality in the DMV as well as provide job opportunities for unhoused, single mothers and LGBTQ youth. “We hold a vision to bridge people and communities together with delicious coffee that makes a difference,” said Kelley.

• Bubbie’s Plant Burgers & Fizz
  Bubbie’s Plant Burgers & Fizz provides plant-based and Kosher certified burgers. These vegan and vegetarian friendly options are for everyone. Bubbie’s quality, delicious plant-based cuisine is dedicated to meeting a variety of dietary needs. One of Bubbie’s latest menu items is the Pink Pineapple Pepper Burger with a house-made beet patty, Del Monte’s exclusive Pink Glow Pineapple, house-made Vertage pepper jack cheese, fried shallots, green leaf and black garlic cashew cream aioli on a soft roll.

• Dolci Gelati
  Gianluigi Dellaccio, owner and founder of Dolci Gelati, is originally from Naples, Italy and has been in the gelato business since 2006. Dubbed the “first gelato ambassador” with the mission of bringing delicious, authentic gelato to the United States, Dellaccio “wants to teach and spread the passion of making gelato.” Dolci Gelati has four gelato locations in the DMV with the newest that recently opened in Water Park. With over 450 gelato flavors including seasonal flavors: pumpkin, sage and mascarpone, there are always a vast array of new flavor options to taste including thoughtfully-crafted vegan options that Dellaccio has taken time to perfect.
  Falafel Inc. Known for its award-winning healthy, authentic and affordable falafel. Falafel Inc. is the first falafel fast casual social enterprise franchise in the world. All menu offerings are under $6 to maintain their mission to provide locally-sourced, affordable meals. “Eat For Good” is the ethos behind Falafel Inc.’s brand and movement. Falafel Inc. actively partners with the World Food Programme, which provides food to refugees around the world.

• Queen Mother’s
  Helmed by Chef Rahman “Rock” Harper, a distinguished James Beard finalist, this culinary haven specializes in an array of irresistible fried chicken sandwiches. Indulge in the delight of eight distinct, tantalizing saucy flavors, including the likes of Gochu BBQ, the beloved Mother Sauce, and the unforgettable Mambo crafted by Uncle Dell’s, just to name a few. Honoring culture, serving smiles and building community are goals of Queen Mother’s as they are committed to serving all natural, better-tasting, hormone and antibiotic free chicken to their guests.

Other vendors include Cracked Eggery, Crush Pizza, DC Dosa, PhoWheels and Tiki Thai.

Water Park is thoughtfully designed for easy and accessible access for all. The space includes public restrooms, bike facilities, and (coming soon) a new entrance of the Virginia Railway Express station with a handicap accessible connection.

The park graciously welcomes the public daily, offering an inviting space from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., although the operating hours of individual vendors may vary, ensuring a delightful experience for all.

Learn more about Water Park here: https://www.nlwaterpark.com/