This southern suburb of Washington, DC, sits along the Potomac River. Alexandria, Virginia is well known for its historic Old Town. Brick sidewalks and well-preserved 18th and 19th century buildings line King Street, which is lined with boutiques. Visitors to the historic district can explore Gadsby’s Tavern, now a museum, and the restored Georgian mansion, Carlyle House Historic Park. These are just a few places to see while visiting Alexandria.
Old Town Alexandria
Old Town Alexandria is a bustling historic district on the banks of the Potomac, dotted with 18th century townhouses and cobblestone streets. You can see where George Washington once slept at Gadsby’s Tavern, one of many small museums and shops in the area. Visit the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary, which opened in 1783, or sample the local eats at the Saturday farmers’ market, which has been running for 260 years.
George Washington Masonic National Memorial
A place to visit in Alexandria, Virginia is the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. The Masonic building and memorial are located just outside of Washington, D.C. They are dedicated to the memory of George Washington, the first President of the United States, who was also a Mason. You can tour the building and learn about the history of the Masonic lodge. The museum and memorial are well worth a visit.
Dora Kelley Nature Park
Do you like nature? Then you must visit Dora Kelley Nature Park in Alexandria, Virginia. This large park has various trails for you to follow. There is a nature center with educational classes and animals. You can even take an environmental class to learn more about the environment. This park is a great place to spend the afternoon. You will feel like a child again. You will be able to see all the creatures that live here.
Spite House
If you’re looking for an out of the ordinary place to see in Alexandria, Virginia, the Spite House is one of the best options. Located at 523 Queen Street, this house has a unique history and has sparked international interest. The house has appeared on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” and it’s now a must-see destination for local history tours. The Spite House is an intriguing structure that’s decorated with small pieces of furniture.
Gadsby’s Tavern and Hotel
Built in 1785, Gadsby’s Tavern and Hotel is an iconic structure in Alexandria, Virginia. Built in a Georgian-Colonial style, the building once served as a hub for Alexandria’s social scene and attracted notable people of the day. It was a popular watering hole for political leaders, and was once frequented by George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe. It also was a favorite of Marquis de Lafayette, and was regularly visited by George Washington.
Art Deco architecture
The Del Ray neighborhood in Alexandria, Virginia is full of art deco buildings and funky communities. One such Alexandria establishment celebrating a century in business in 2016 is Swing’s on East Monroe Avenue. Housed in a pristine Art Deco warehouse-style building built by a Washington, DC, architect in the 1950s, this café and diner once served as an engraving shop and was most recently home to Gold Crust Baking Company.
Museums
Alexandria, Virginia is home to several museums and historic sites. These sites are sure to capture the imagination of the traveler and inspire innovation. In addition to its historical sites, this city also offers nearby attractions such as George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gadsby’s Tavern Museum. Alexandria’s museum system is operated by the Office of Historic Alexandria, one of eight municipal museum systems in the nation. A tour of these sites will teach you about the city’s rich history and culture.
Walking tours
The town of Alexandria was the longest Union occupied town during the Civil War, so you can expect plenty of history and mystery from this period. There are many places you can see while walking through the town, including the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary and Gadsby’s Tavern. Not only is the town home to some of the nation’s founding fathers, but it also boasts the largest 18th-century ice well, a refrigerator for its day.
