Spread the love!

Alexandria, Virginia: Where Fun and Adventure Collide – The Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!

Old Town is the part that survived, and everything worth walking is inside it. King Street runs a mile from the waterfront up through 200 shops and restaurants in their original buildings. The Carlyle House from 1753 and Gadsby’s Tavern both sit on the side streets off it. The Torpedo Factory is down on the water at the bottom of King Street. Jones Point Lighthouse sits at the southern end, and Fort Ward is the one that needs a car.

Are you planning a trip to Alexandria, Virginia and wondering what to do and where to go? You are in the right place. Alexandria, sitting a stone’s throw from Washington, D.C., is a charming city that runs a deep bench of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. With its long history, its working arts scene and its waterfront, Alexandria is worth the trip for anyone travelling the East Coast.

Let your inner artist out by taking a painting or pottery class at one of Alexandria’s many art studios. Take a stroll through Old Town, the city’s historic district, and look at the 18th-century architecture while ducking into locally-owned boutiques and restaurants. If you take food seriously, you will like dining and drinking in Alexandria, which runs a broad culinary scene covering everything from seafood to international cuisine.

If you love being outdoors, Alexandria will not disappoint. Explore the Great Outdoors by biking or hiking along the scenic Mount Vernon Trail or kayaking on the Potomac River. History readers will enjoy the city’s many historical sites, including George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate and the Torpedo Factory Art Center, a former torpedo factory turned art center. An experience you will not get elsewhere, a shopping day, or a special event, Alexandria covers all three.

Key Takeaways

• Alexandria, Virginia offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests.
• Unleash your inner artist, explore the great outdoors, or immerse yourself in the city’s rich history.
• Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or a shopaholic, Alexandria has something for everyone.

Unleashing the Artist Within

Are you feeling creative? Then Alexandria has you covered. There are plenty of places where you can let the artist out. Here are the places to visit:

Torpedo Factory Art Center

The Torpedo Factory Art Center is worth going out of your way for if you follow art. This former torpedo factory turned art center holds over 80 artist studios and several galleries. You can watch artists at work, take a workshop, or buy work to take home.

Art Galleries and Workshops

If you want more art galleries and workshops, Alexandria runs plenty. The Art League Gallery, sitting in the Torpedo Factory Art Center, exhibits work by local artists and runs classes and workshops. The Athenaeum Gallery shows contemporary art in a historic building. The Principle Gallery carries contemporary realism and figurative art.

There are also plenty of workshops for anyone who wants to try making their own work. The Art League School, sitting in the Torpedo Factory Art Center, runs classes in painting, drawing, sculpture and more. AR Workshop Alexandria runs DIY workshops where you can make your own home decor, jewelry and more.

So, experienced artist or complete beginner, Alexandria has the room for it. Do not be afraid to let the artist out and work through the many art galleries, artist studios and workshops that this city runs.

A Stroll Through Old Town

If you want a charming and picturesque walk, Old Town Alexandria is where to take it. As you work through the cobblestone streets and look at the historic architecture, you will feel like you have stepped back in time. Here are a few highlights to check out along the way.

King Street Mile

Start your stroll along King Street, which has been named one of the Great Streets of America. This mile-long stretch is lined with over 200 independent shops and restaurants, all sitting in historic buildings with red-brick sidewalks. As you walk, keep an eye out for the free shuttle that runs up and down the street, which is what you want if your feet give out.

Cobblestone Streets and Architecture

As you turn off King Street and onto the side streets, the cobblestone starts under your feet. Take a moment to look at the architecture of the historic homes and buildings, many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Keep an eye out for the Carlyle House, a Georgian mansion built in 1753 that has been carefully preserved.

As you carry on walking, you will notice that many of the buildings carry plaques with historical information on them. Take a few moments to read them and learn about the long history of Old Town Alexandria.

History reader or somebody just after a slow stroll, a walk through Old Town Alexandria is worth your morning. So grab your walking shoes and get ready to step back in time.

Dining and Drinking in Alexandria

When it comes to dining and drinking in Alexandria, you are in for a real week. From gourmet restaurants to cozy pubs and bars, the city covers the range. Here are the places to eat and drink in Alexandria.

Gourmet Restaurants

If you want a fancy night out, Alexandria runs plenty of gourmet restaurants. Old House Cosmopolitan is a spot people book for German and European cuisine. The pork schnitzel and the grilled seafood are what people order. Le Refuge Restaurant is another strong option for French and European cooking. Their menu carries dishes like escargots and duck confit.

Pubs and Bars

If you are in the mood for a more laid-back room, Alexandria runs plenty of pubs and bars. The Tavern is a local favorite for its cozy room and its food. They also carry a strong selection of craft beer on draft. Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub is another strong spot for a pint of Guinness and some traditional Irish fare.

Port City Brewing Company

If you follow craft beer, do not miss a visit to Port City Brewing Company. They run a range of beers, including their Optimal Wit and Monumental IPA. Take a tour of the brewery and learn about the brewing process, or just sit down with a pint in their tasting room.

No matter what your taste buds are after, Alexandria has it. So go ahead, work through some good food and drink. You have earned it.

Exploring the Great Outdoors

You are in for a good week if you love the outdoors, because Alexandria, Virginia runs some of the strongest outdoor days in the region. From hiking trails to bird-watching spots, the city covers it. Here are a few of the outdoor activities worth trying in Alexandria.

Hiking the Mount Vernon Trail

If you want a scenic hike, the Mount Vernon Trail is worth going out of your way for. This 18-mile trail runs along the Potomac River, opening up long views of the water and the country around it. The trail also suits biking, jogging or a slow stroll. You can start the trail at any point, though starting at the George Washington Memorial Parkway and heading south toward Mount Vernon works well.

Bird-Watching at Huntley Meadows Park

Huntley Meadows Park is strong ground for bird-watching. This 1,500-acre park holds over 200 species of birds, which makes it one of the strongest places in the region to spot them. The park also runs a boardwalk trail through wetlands and forest, where you can see a range of wildlife, including beavers, frogs and turtles.

Jones Point Lighthouse and Park

For an outdoor day with a different shape, head to Jones Point Lighthouse and Park. This park sits at the southern end of Old Town Alexandria and opens up long views of the Potomac River. The park also holds the Jones Point Lighthouse, which was built in 1855 and is one of the few remaining riverine lighthouses in the country. You can take a tour of the lighthouse and learn its history, or just have a picnic in the park with the water in front of you.

Nature lover or somebody just after a fun day outdoors, Alexandria has the ground for it. From hiking trails to bird-watching spots, you will find the outdoor day that suits you. So grab your hiking boots and get out there.

Old Town does the walking for you, which is rather the point with children in tow. King Street runs a mile end to end and the free shuttle covers the whole of it. Nobody has to walk that distance twice. The Torpedo Factory is indoors and the artists are working in there, which holds children a good deal longer than a museum case does. The honest friction is the cobblestones: they are original, and strollers hate them.

Historical Wonders

If you are a history reader, Alexandria runs plenty of historical sites. Here are the spots that will take you back in time:

George Washington Masonic National Memorial

You cannot visit Alexandria without paying respects to the father of our country, George Washington. And the way to do it is by visiting the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. This towering monument is dedicated to the life and legacy of Washington, who was a Mason himself. The sheer size of the memorial will stop you where you stand, and its 333-foot tower can be climbed for a long view over the city. And if you are lucky, you might even catch sight of the ghost of George Washington himself, or so the legends say.

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

If you follow colonial history, do not miss Gadsby’s Tavern Museum. This historic building was once a gathering spot for the likes of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and the other founding fathers. Today, it has been restored to its original condition and turned into a museum that opens a window onto life in the 18th century. You can tour the rooms where the founding fathers dined, drink in the same tavern they did, and even dress in period costume to get properly into it.

Fort Ward Museum

For a taste of Civil War history, head to Fort Ward Museum. This fort was built in 1861 to protect Washington, D.C., and was the fifth largest fort in the area. Today, it has been turned into a museum showing what life was like for soldiers during the war. You can work through the fort’s earthworks, see artifacts from the period, and even try on a Civil War uniform. And if you time it right, you might even catch a reenactment of a battle.

These are a few of the historical sites Alexandria runs. From the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum to the Carlyle House, this city has kept a great deal of its record. So put on your walking shoes, grab your camera and get ready to step back in time.

Unique Experiences in Alexandria

Looking for something different to do in Alexandria? Check out these experiences, which will stay with you.

Escape Room Live

Put your problem-solving to the test at Escape Room Live. Choose from a range of themed rooms, such as Sherlock Holmes or Titanic, and work with your team to solve the puzzles and get out before time runs out. It is a fun and demanding hour with friends or family. Plus, if you are feeling competitive, you can see how your time stacks up against other groups on the leaderboard.

Ghost Tour

If you are feeling brave, take a ghost tour of Alexandria. Learn about the city’s haunted history as you walk through Old Town and hear the stories of ghosts and paranormal activity. Who knows, you might even have an encounter of your own. Just bring a friend to hold onto when things get spooky.

Spite House

Visit the Spite House, a home so narrow it will make you feel like a giant. Legend has it that the home was built to block loiterers from the alley beside the owner’s house. It is an unusual piece of Alexandria’s history and a strong photo. Plus, it is one of the alley houses in Old Town Alexandria, so you can make a day of working through them all.

No matter what you choose to do in Alexandria, these experiences will stay with you.

Shopping Extravaganza

Looking for a shopping day? Alexandria, Virginia has you covered. From boutique shops on King Street to the farmers market, the city runs the range.

Boutique Shops on King Street

King Street is a shopaholic’s paradise. The historic street is lined with boutique shops, gift shops, and more. Hop on the King Street Trolley for a fun and easy way to explore the area.

Check out the boutique shops for finds you will not see elsewhere. You will turn up everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry. And stop by the gift shops for souvenirs and other trinkets.

Farmers Market

If you want fresh produce and other local goods, head to the farmers market. The market runs year-round and carries vendors selling everything from fruit and vegetables to baked goods and handmade crafts.

Stock up on fresh ingredients for a home-cooked meal or grab a snack to eat while you work through the rest of the city. And bring a reusable bag to carry it all.

Boutique shopping or a farmers market, Alexandria has you covered. Get ready to work the street.

Special Events and Festivals

If you want a good time in Alexandria, Virginia, you are in luck. The city runs a range of special events and festivals through the year that will keep you busy. Here are a few of the strongest:

Cherry Blossom Festival

Who needs to go to Japan to see cherry blossoms when you can get the Cherry Blossom Festival right here in Alexandria? Held in early spring, this festival celebrates the cherry blossom trees that line the city’s streets. Take a stroll through Old Town and take in the pink and white blooms, or get to one of the many events that are part of the festival, such as the Cherry Challenge cooking competition or the Cherry Blossom Boat Tour.

Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend

If you’re a fan of bagpipes, kilts, and all things Scottish, you won’t want to miss the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend. Held in early December, this festival features a parade of Scottish clans, a holiday market, and a traditional Scottish dinner. Plus, you’ll get to see Santa Claus arrive in town on a fire truck.

Alexandria Old Town Art Festival

Art lovers, this one is for you. The Alexandria Old Town Art Festival takes place in September and carries work by artists from all over the country. You will find paintings, sculptures, jewelry and more on display, and you can buy pieces to take home. Plus, the festival is rated as one of the top 100 art shows in the country by Sunshine Artist Magazine, so you know what you are getting.

Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

What’s better than a boat parade? A boat parade with lights, of course. The Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights takes place in early December and features boats decked out in festive lights and decorations. You can watch the parade from the shore, or even better, hop on a boat and join in on the fun yourself.

Historic Homes Tour

Take a step back in time with the Historic Homes Tour, held in September. This walking tour takes you through some of the finest homes and gardens in Old Town, opening a window onto the city’s long history. You will also see some of the city’s strongest backyard entertaining spaces, so you can take some ideas home for your own.

Art on the Avenue

In October, head to Del Ray for Art on the Avenue, a festival that celebrates all things artistic. You will find work by local artists, live music, and plenty of food and drink to keep you going. Plus, there are activities for kids, so the whole family gets something.

As you can see, Alexandria knows how to run a party. No matter what time of year you visit, there will be a special event or festival that makes the trip stick.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Old Town Alexandria? Is it really old or just pretending to be?

Oh, it is old alright. Old Town Alexandria was founded back in 1749. That is genuinely ancient, man. But do not worry, it is not all cobblestone streets and powdered wigs. Old Town runs plenty of modern amenities, like trendy restaurants, cool boutiques and even a waterfront park.

Can I take a selfie with George Washington in Alexandria? Where should I go?

Well, unless you have a time machine, you are not going to get a photo with the real George Washington. But there is a life-size statue of the first president at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. That is the spot for a presidential selfie.

What’s the best way to explore King Street in Alexandria without breaking the bank?

King Street is the heart of Old Town, and it’s definitely worth checking out. But let’s be real, it can be expensive. So here’s a pro-tip: take advantage of the free King Street Trolley. It runs every 10-15 minutes and stops at all the major attractions. Plus, it’s air-conditioned, so you can beat the heat while you save some cash.

Are there any haunted spots in Alexandria? I’m asking for a friend.

Oh, you had better believe it. Alexandria is full of spooky stories and haunted spots. Check out the Carlyle House or Gadsby’s Tavern for the ghostly tales. And if you are feeling brave, take a ghost tour of Old Town. Just do not blame us if you cannot sleep at night.

What’s the most Instagrammable spot in Alexandria? Asking for a social media addict.

There are so many photogenic spots in Alexandria, it’s hard to choose just one. But if we had to pick, we’d say the Torpedo Factory Art Center. It’s a former torpedo factory turned art space, with tons of cool galleries and studios. Plus, the building itself is pretty darn Instagram-worthy.

Is it possible to visit Alexandria without falling in love with it? Asking for a friend who doesn’t want to be charmed.

Hmm, that is a tough one. Alexandria has a way of creeping up on you and taking your heart. But if your friend is really determined, avoid the waterfront, skip the charming boutiques, and definitely do not try any of the restaurants. Good luck with that.

Frequently asked questions about Alexandria, Virginia

Which fort near Alexandria is the one that has been kept exactly as it was?

Fort Ward Museum. It went up in 1861 to protect Washington, D.C., and it stood as the fifth largest fort anywhere in the area at that time. The earthworks thrown up around it are still walkable, and artifacts from the war period sit inside the museum building alongside them. Uniforms hang on the wall there for visitors to try on themselves.

Which lighthouse in Alexandria is the one that is still left standing?

Jones Point Lighthouse. It was built at the southern end of Old Town in 1855, and very few riverine lighthouses of its kind remain standing anywhere in the country. Guided tours run right through the inside of the tower, and the park around it faces straight onto the Potomac River. Picnic tables sit along the bank underneath it.

Which park near Alexandria is the one that holds all of the birds?

Huntley Meadows Park. It covers 1,500 acres of wetland and forest, and over 200 species of bird have been recorded on that ground over the years. A boardwalk trail crosses directly over the open water, and beavers, frogs and turtles all work the wetland beneath it. The boards themselves stay dry underfoot the whole way.

Spread the love!