Alexandria Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary
Just minutes from Washington, D.C., Alexandria offers a perfectly preserved colonial atmosphere with cobblestone streets, vibrant waterfront dining, and a deep connection to America's founding history. Explore the historic Old Town district where red-brick sidewalks meet boutique shopping and award-winning culinary experiences.
Stepping into Alexandria feels like walking onto a movie set of colonial America, yet the city pulses with a modern, sophisticated energy. Just across the Potomac River from the nation’s capital, this historic port city offers a distinct change of pace from the hustle of D.C. Here, 18th-century row houses with gas lamps line cobblestone streets, and the waterfront teems with boats, street performers, and al fresco diners enjoying the river breeze.
What makes Alexandria truly special is its accessibility and authenticity. It isn’t a museum exhibit behind glass; it is a living, breathing community where history is woven into daily life. You can drink a craft beer in a warehouse that once stored grain for the Continental Army or shop for high-end fashion in a building that survived the Civil War. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a romantic getaway, the charm of Old Town is undeniable.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
George Washington’s Hometown
Alexandria’s claim to fame is its status as the adopted hometown of George Washington. The first president maintained a townhouse here, worshipped at Christ Church, and organized revolutionary meetings at local taverns. Unlike many historic sites that feel reconstructed, Alexandria’s grid remains largely unchanged from the 1700s. Walking the red-brick sidewalks connects you physically to the founding of the country in a way few other places can.
Beyond the Founding Fathers, the city acknowledges a complex history, including its role as a major port in the domestic slave trade and its occupation by Union troops during the Civil War. Museums like the Freedom House and the Alexandria Black History Museum provide essential context, ensuring that the story told here is complete and inclusive. This depth of narrative transforms a simple walk down Duke Street into a profound journey through American heritage.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Stroll the King Street Mile
Walk one of the 'Great Streets' of America, lined with centuries-old architecture, independent boutiques, and vibrant restaurants leading down to the Potomac River.
Mount Vernon Trail Cycling
Rent a bike and ride the scenic paved trail that hugs the Potomac River, connecting Old Town to George Washington's Mount Vernon estate to the south.
Torpedo Factory Art Center
Explore this former naval munitions plant turned art center, featuring three floors of open studios where you can watch artists create painting, sculpture, and jewelry.
Dining at Gadsby's Tavern
Eat a meal in the same dining room where George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams once gathered, featuring colonial-style cuisine and period servers.
Love what you see? Get a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests, budget, and travel style.
The Icons You’ll Want to See
George Washington Masonic National Memorial - This massive tower dominates the skyline and offers the best views in the city. Located 1 mile from the waterfront, it costs $20 USD for a tour including the observation deck.
Torpedo Factory Art Center - Located directly on the waterfront marina, this converted munitions plant is now home to 82 artist studios. It is open daily and free to the public, situated at the bottom of King Street.
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum - Step back in time to 1792 in this preserved family pharmacy. Located at 105 S Fairfax St, admission is $5 USD, and it features original herbal botanicals and medical equipment.
The Spite House - A favorite photo stop, this blue home is the narrowest in America. Located at 523 Queen St (0.6 mi from the waterfront), it is a private residence, so viewing is from the sidewalk only.
Carlyle House Historic Park - A Georgian stone mansion built in 1753 by a wealthy merchant. Located at 121 N Fairfax St, tours are available for $5 USD to see the home and its secluded garden.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Insider Tips
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Alexandria is incredibly convenient thanks to its proximity to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), which is just a 10-minute drive or short Metro ride away. The King Street-Old Town Metro station (Blue/Yellow lines) puts you right at the top of the historic district. From there, you can board the free King Street Trolley, which loops constantly between the Metro and the waterfront, making a rental car largely unnecessary if you plan to stay within Old Town.
When packing, prioritize comfortable footwear. The historic district is best explored on foot, but the charming brick sidewalks and cobblestones can be unforgiving on heels or thin soles. Summers are humid, so breathable fabrics are a must, while layers are essential for the variable spring and fall weather. If you plan to visit Mount Vernon, remember it is about 9 miles south, accessible by car, bike path, or boat, so allocate at least half a day for that specific excursion.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Spring and Fall
Pros
- Perfect walking weather
- Beautiful foliage or blooms
- Abundance of outdoor festivals
- Patio dining is optimal
Cons
- Higher hotel rates
- Crowded sidewalks on weekends
- Restaurant reservations required well in advance
- Traffic congestion into D.C.
Shoulder Season: Summer
Pros
- Waterfront activities in full swing
- Longer daylight hours
- Free outdoor concerts
- Water taxi access is consistent
Cons
- High humidity can be oppressive
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common
- Mosquitoes near the river
- Tourist crowds remain steady
Off-Peak: Winter (Jan-Feb)
Pros
- Lowest hotel prices
- Quiet atmosphere
- Cozy historic taverns with fireplaces
- Easy access to museums without lines
Cons
- Cold and windy near the water
- Some outdoor attractions have limited hours
- Potential for snow or ice
- Trees are bare
Alexandria is a year-round destination, but the magic of the city is most palpable during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when the trees are colorful and the air is crisp. However, don’t discount a winter visit; the city takes its holidays seriously, and walking through a gentle snowfall on King Street with the glow of gas lamps is an unforgettable experience.
Sample Itineraries
Classic Old Town Weekend
A relaxed weekend focusing on the historic highlights, waterfront dining, and boutique shopping of Old Town Alexandria.
Day 1: The Heart of History
- Morning: Start your day with coffee and a pastry at Misha’s Coffee on King Street for about $15 before walking down to the Waterfront Park. Spend two hours exploring the Torpedo Factory Art Center to see local artists at work, which is free to enter.
- Afternoon: Walk to Gadsby’s Tavern Museum for a tour of the historic ballroom and dining room, with tickets costing $5 per person. Enjoy a late lunch at Vola’s Dockside Grill to watch the boats on the Potomac, expecting to spend around $50.
- Evening: Stroll up King Street to see the lights on the trees and browse the independent shops. Conclude with a classic dinner at The Majestic, where a meal for two with drinks will run approximately $100.
Day 2: Architecture and Views
- Morning: Take the free King Street Trolley up to the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. Pay the $20 admission fee to take the elevator to the observation deck for stunning views of Alexandria and Washington D.C.
- Afternoon: Head back to lower King Street and wander through the residential side streets to find the famous Spite House on Queen Street. Grab a casual lunch at The Warehouse, known for its she-crab soup, costing about $60 for two.
- Evening: Embark on a sunset cruise from the marina, with tickets costing around $35 per person. Finish your trip with a romantic Italian dinner at Landini Brothers, budgeting $120 for an upscale experience.
Patriots & Pioneers Path
A deep dive into the historical significance of Alexandria, from the Founding Fathers to the Civil War era.
Day 1: Washington’s Footsteps
- Morning: Begin at the Carlyle House Historic Park to learn about the city’s colonial origins, with an admission of $5 per adult. Walk to the nearby Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum to see preserved medicines from the 1800s for $5.
- Afternoon: Rent bikes near the waterfront for $25 each and ride a portion of the Mount Vernon Trail south toward Jones Point Park. See the original boundary stone of the District of Columbia located under the Wilson Bridge.
- Evening: Experience history on a plate with dinner at Gadsby’s Tavern Restaurant, where a colonial-style meal costs around $90. afterward, join the Alexandria Colonial Tours for a Ghost & Graveyard walk at 7:30 PM for $15 per person.
Day 2: African American Heritage
- Morning: Visit the Freedom House Museum on Duke Street to learn about the domestic slave trade history, with tickets at $5. Walk a few blocks to the African American Heritage Park for a moment of reflection.
- Afternoon: Take the water taxi from the marina to National Harbor and back for $24 roundtrip to see the city from the river perspective. Grab lunch at Virtue Feed & Grain, a historic repurposed warehouse, for about $55.
- Evening: Walk the cobblestones of Captain’s Row on Prince Street for golden hour photography. End your trip with a seafood dinner at Hank’s Oyster Bar, budgeting roughly $100 for fresh catches and cocktails.
Ready to visit Alexandria Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary?
Let AI build your perfect itinerary in seconds.