Old Town Alexandria

The Basics

Just down the road from George Washington’s historic Mount Vernon estate, downtown Alexandria is frequently paired with tours of Mount Vernon. These guided tours take you to sites such as the 331-foot (100-meter) George Washington Masonic National Memorial and Gadsby's Tavern Museum—a popular hangout for the nation’s founding fathers that today combines historic dining and exhibits.

History isn’t the only thing Alexandria has to offer. You can get a taste of the hipster food scene on a tour that combines historic haunts and modern sustainable dining. Or, take your camera or a smartphone and join a guided photography tour led by a professional photographer who can help you capture the quaint town's essence.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Old Town Alexandria is a must-visit for American history buffs and foodies.

• Book a tour with included transport from Washington D.C. and you won't have to worry about parking or public transit.

• The free King Street Trolley makes it easy and fun to get around Old Town.

• The trolley and many of the historic attractions are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Washington’s robust public transportation system makes it easy to reach Old Town Alexandria on the Metrorail. From downtown Washington DC, take the yellow line to King Street-Old Town station. You can also reach Alexandria by Metrorail from nearby Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. If you want to add some scenery to the trip, skip the rails and take a boat cruise or water taxi from Washington to Alexandria’s waterfront.

When to Get There

With everything from quaint coffee shops to historic bars, you can enjoy a visit to Alexandria at any time of the day, but keep in mind that many of the historic attractions close at 4pm. The King Street Trolley runs from 11am–10:30pm Sunday–Wednesday, and 10:30am–11:59pm Thursday–Saturday. To see one of the country’s oldest farmers’ markets, visit between 7am and 12pm on Saturdays.

Top Historic Attractions in Alexandria

The number of historic attractions in the colonial-era town can be overwhelming, so if you want time to explore the town’s shops and restaurants too, you have to prioritize. Start with George Washington Masonic National Memorial where you can enjoy historic exhibits, neoclassical architecture, and views from a 360-degree observation deck. From there, visit the southern manor-style Carlyle House, before heading to Gadsby's Tavern Museum to enjoy a meal in 18th-century style.

Ways to explore

Just down the road from George Washington's historic Mount Vernon estate, a visit to Alexandria is frequently paired with tours of Mount Vernon. Guided tours of the Old Town typically include sights such as the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, the southern manor-style Carlyle House, and Gadsby's Tavern Museum—a popular hangout for the nation's founding fathers that today combines historic dining and exhibits.

Stroll down King Street, lined with striking 18th- and 19th-century buildings, meet local artists and artisans at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, and enjoy a sightseeing cruise along the Potomac River.

Accessibility

Many Old Town Alexandria tours and attractions are accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and travelers with limited mobility. The Metrorail and King Street Trolley are accessible. Be mindful of the brick sidewalks, which may be uneven in places

Age limits

None; Alexandria has plenty of family-friendly sights and activities.

What to pack

Reusable water bottle, camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, reusable shopping bag/tote

What to wear

Weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes

Not allowed

Avoid chain stores and buy local instead: Old Town Alexandria is rightly proud of its independent boutiques, local artisans, and small restaurants.

Amenities

Visitor center, accommodation options, eateries, public restrooms, bike rental, paid parking lots, free King Street Trolley

Address 

Old Town Alexandria is located along the west bank of the Potomac River, about 8 miles (13 kilometers) south of downtown Washington DC. It's easy to reach by car or public transport.

Driving

To reach Old Town Alexandria from downtown Washington DC or Washington International Airport, drive south along the George Washington Memorial Parkway—about a 20-minute drive. There's plenty of paid parking around the Old Town.

Public transportation

From downtown Washington DC, take the Metrorail Blue Line directly to King Street-Old Town station in Alexandria—about a 20-minute journey. For the most scenic route, you can also take a boat cruise or water taxi from Washington to Alexandria's waterfront.

Best times to visit

With everything from cozy coffee shops to historic bars, you can enjoy a visit to Alexandria at any time of the day, and the King Street Trolley runs from 11am–11pm. However, keep in mind that many of the historic attractions close at 4pm.

Best days to visit

Old Town Alexandria is a perennially popular weekend destination, and there’s always a crowd at the Saturday morning market, one of the country's oldest farmers markets. For a quieter visit, come midweek instead.

Best months to visit

Spring and fall are great times for sightseeing in Old Town Alexandria. Time your visit to see the spring cherry blossoms in bloom along the waterfront and throughout the Old Town in March and April, or admire the colorful fall foliage along the George Washington Memorial Parkway.

Special events

The biggest events of the year include the George Washington Birthday Parade (February), Juneteenth, and the Alexandria & USA Birthday Celebration (July), but there's also St Patrick's Day (March), the Alexandria Old Town Springtime Art Festival (May), and plenty of holiday season festivities.