About Alexandria

Just south of Washington, D.C. on the Potomac River, quaint and historic Old Town Alexandria looks much the same today as it did hundreds of years ago with its (restored) homes and shops. Cobblestone streets and brick sidewalks feature boutiques, book stores, art galleries, restaurants, historic buildings and gardens. Over one million people visit Alexandria each year and discover Colonial taverns, specialty shops, walking tours, waterfront dining, and scenic boat tours. When visiting the nation’s capital, it’s a trip across the Woodrow Wilson Bridge to this historic town with 2,000 buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Attractions and museums include the Alexandria Archaeology Museum, Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site, Friendship Firehouse Museum, Gadsby’s Tavern, the Lyceum-Alexandria’s History Museum, Black History Museum, Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, Christ Church (where George Washington and Robert E. Lee worshipped), Gunston Hall, George Washington National Masonic Memorial, George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens,and the list keeps going. Nature parks, scenic biking and walking trails include the Alexandria Heritage Trail, Mount Vernon Forest Trail, and the Civil War Trails. There are tours by boat, bus, carriage or walking. This is a history buff’s paradise.

Annual events include the Civil War Ball at Gadsby’s Tavern, George Washington Birthnight Ball, St. Patrick’s Day Celebration & Parade, Civil War Camp Day, Juneteenth Celebration, Alexandria Scottish Games, Friendship Firehouse Festival, and Seaport Days.

There are the usual chain hotels and a number of unique bed and breakfasts. The same can be said for the dining. When in D.C. come take a look!