Ball-Sellers House
Arlington's oldest house (c. 1750), offering a rare glimpse into 18th-century yeoman farm life with original architectural details.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Season opening with reenactors
Ball-Sellers House
Best Time
Season opening with reenactors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Arlington's oldest house (c. 1750), offering a rare glimpse into 18th-century yeoman farm life with original architectural details.
"It's amazing to have this historic home in the middle of Arlington's Glencarlyn neighborhood. If you're interested in history, it's worth a visit."
Check Opening Dates
Museum closed Nov-Mar. Reopens first Saturday in April! 📅
Limited Space Inside
Book large group tours in advance. Space is limited. :bustsinsilhouette:
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
18th-Century Architecture
Entire House
Step back in time to see original carpentry, wide plank floors, and mortise and tenon joinery from the 1750s.
Colonial Farm Life Glimpse
Preserved Section
Experience a quiet look into the daily lives of a mid-18th century yeoman farm family.
Arlington's Oldest House
Exterior and Grounds
Marvel at the oldest surviving house in Arlington County, a significant historical artifact.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seasonal Access is Key
Limited Visiting Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Dates
Museum closed Nov-Mar. Reopens first Saturday in April! 📅
Limited Space Inside
Book large group tours in advance. Space is limited. :bustsinsilhouette:
Historic Preservation
See original carpentry & wide plank floors. Amazing details! :hammerandwrench:
Arlington History Hub
Oldest house in Arlington County! A true historical artifact. 📜
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Dates
Museum closed Nov-Mar. Reopens first Saturday in April! 📅
Limited Space Inside
Book large group tours in advance. Space is limited. :bustsinsilhouette:
Historic Preservation
See original carpentry & wide plank floors. Amazing details! :hammerandwrench:
Arlington History Hub
Oldest house in Arlington County! A true historical artifact. 📜
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Ball-Sellers House a fascinating historical artifact, appreciating its status as Arlington's oldest home and the glimpse it offers into mid-18th century farm life. The preserved original carpentry and architecture are frequently highlighted as impressive. However, the very limited seasonal hours and restricted visiting times are a common point of frustration for potential visitors.
"This is the oldest house remaining in Arlington County, which was previously part of Fairfax County (and Washington DC). It has two parts, one renovated with a tenant and one preserved from the mid 18th century. Its an interesting historic artifact."
david turvene
"We visited on the opening day for the season (first Saturday in April). There were many rein-actors including a fife and drum corps. It is quite surprising to see how earlier generations lived. Simple but interesting and well preserved."
Katie W
"PLEASE NOTE: The museum is CLOSED from November through March, since there is no heat in the oldest section of the house. The museum reopens on the first Saturday in April. The Ball-Sellers is a quiet place to get a glimpse of Colonial era farm life. Space inside the museum is limited, so big group tours should be specially requested."
Penny Royal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ball-Sellers House is located in Arlington, Virginia's Glencarlyn neighborhood. While specific public transport details can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Parking information should be confirmed with the Arlington Historical Society closer to your visit.
Parking availability can be limited due to its residential neighborhood setting. It's advisable to check with the Arlington Historical Society for the most current parking guidance before your visit.
Yes, the Ball-Sellers House is a feasible day trip from Washington D.C. Its location in Arlington makes it an accessible historical detour for those exploring the wider D.C. metro area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Ball-Sellers House has very limited visiting hours and is typically open from April through October. It's crucial to check the Arlington Historical Society's official website for the exact days and times, as they can change seasonally.
Advance ticket purchase information should be verified with the Arlington Historical Society. Given the limited hours and potential for small group tours, it's wise to confirm their ticketing policy.
Admission fees, if any, are typically managed by the Arlington Historical Society. It's best to consult their official channels for the most up-to-date pricing information.
The Ball-Sellers House season generally runs from the first Saturday in April through October. It closes for the winter months due to the lack of heating in the historic section.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the preserved mid-18th century yeoman farm house, marvel at original carpentry, wide plank floors, and get a glimpse into colonial farm life. Special events may include reenactors.
Due to limited space inside the historic house, large group tours should be specially requested and arranged in advance with the Arlington Historical Society.
It is the oldest house remaining in Arlington County, dating back to approximately 1750, making it a significant historical artifact and a rare example of early colonial architecture in the D.C. metro area.
Yes, the opening day of the season often features reenactors, including fife and drum corps, offering a more immersive historical experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies inside historic houses can vary. It's best to inquire with the Arlington Historical Society about their specific rules regarding interior photography.
The exterior of the house, with its historic architecture, offers great photo opportunities. The surrounding grounds can also provide charming backdrops, especially during seasonal events.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit