With American roots and European flair it’s no surprise that Alexandria, Virginia has become one of my favorite weekend getaways. Located minutes from Washington DC it feels worlds away with an independent streak inspiring the creative spirits behind the art galleries, boutiques and chef-driven restaurants that call Old Town home. Whether your looking to explore Alexandria’s revolutionary roots with your family or taking a romantic trip with your sweetheart you’re sure to love your time in this charming riverside city. Here are my recommendations for things to do in Alexandria.
1.Take a stroll through Old Town’s cobblestone streets admiring the 18th and 19th century architecture in one of the prettiest towns in Virginia.
2. Explore Civil War era medicine at the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum.
3.Rent a bike from DC Bike and Roll and explore the Mount Vernon Trail
4.Start you Saturday morning like a local by picking up some farm fresh produce at the Old Town Farmer’s Market.
5. Get a good night’s sleep in style at the Kimpton Lorien Hotel and Spa.
6.Sip a perfectly crafted cocktail created by Todd Thrasher at PX, a modern upscale speakeasy.
7.Interact with artists as they create their masterpieces at the Torpedo Factory Art Center.
8.Peruse unique home decor and gifts at St. George’s Gallery, featuring fine handcrafted Ethiopian textiles, furniture and art.
9. Stop by the utterly adorable (and Instagrammable) Spite House. At seven feet wide this is the skinniest house in the US.
10. Get a bit of history along with a taste of Alexandria on a tour from DC Metro Food Tours.
11.Indulge in a pair of designer kicks from Shoe Hive.
4.Visit what some consider to be the birthplace of the American Revolution at the Carlyle House.
13.Hear about haunted tales and folklore on a nighttime ghost tour with Alexandria Colonial Tours.
14.Unleash your inner Picasso with a class at The Art League School.
15. Enjoy a craft beer tour at Port City Brewing Company.
16. Explore Alexandria’s rich African-American heritage at the Alexandria Black History Museum.
17. Take President and Mrs. Obama’s lead and enjoy a romantic date night at Vermilion.
18. Tour and eat at the Gadsby’s Tavern, a restored 18th century tavern that has hosted George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
19. Indulge in handmade Argentinian style gelato at Casa Rosada ( the dulce de leche is a personal faveorite).
20.Foodies will love the fabulous seven course chef’s tasting menu at the acclaimed Restaurant Eve.
21. Find the perfect gift for your four-legged canine companion at The Dog Park Boutique featuring homemade treat and unique pet accessories.
22. Enjoy a waterside view of Washington DC’s monuments with a cruise on the Potomac Riverboat Company.
23. Enjoy live music in an intimate setting at The Birchmire.
24. Lounge over a European style brunch of crepes at Fontaine Caffe.
25. Ride the free King Street trolley for a fun way to explore Old Town Alexandria’s attractions.
For the latest information about attractions and events in Alexandria check out http://www.visitalexandriava.com/
I was graciously hosted by Visit Alexandria but as always all opinions are my own.
Dave Cole says
I can’t imagine a better way to start a weekend in the DC area than a walk around Old Town’s streets and a visit to the farmer’s market. I could probably spend an entire week there and not get bored. Also, Port City Brewing Company sounds like a lot of fun – have you tried their beers?
Brianna says
Dave Port City has a fiercely loyal local following. Since it was warm out I tried their Optimal Wit, a Belgian style white ale that was quite refreshing. They have a line of IPA’s that I’ve heard good things about as well.
Karen Warren says
I love reading about these historic American towns. I need to explore some of them for myself!
Brianna says
Karen, if history (and wine) are what you’re after then Virginia would be a great place to visit. Alexandria is an easy to get to as well since it sits across the Potomac River from Washington DC.
Anna says
Ooooh, I’d love to have a beer in Gadsby’s tavern!
Brianna says
While touristy it would be great to say you had a beer where George Washington once did!
Karisa says
I LOVE Old Town Alexandria. It’s such a pretty, charming town 🙂 I especially love shopping on King Street!
Brianna says
This was my first time there and I fell in love, I’ll definitely be back!
Corinne says
Alexandria looks like a fun place to spend the afternoon!
Brianna says
It is so cute, I loved it!
tammyonthemove says
This could easily be in England with the red brick buildings and the old pubs. Really cute!
Brianna says
Well, it was still British when they began building the city. There is definitely a difference in the post revolutionary architecture.
Lauren says
It looks like a beautiful, quaint place to visit! I would love to spend the day here. I love that fruit platter btw, yum!! 🙂
Brianna says
It’s great for a relaxed weekend away, it was so relaxing!
Hannah says
Sounds fun! I could definitely spend a couple days wandering around- and I’m a sucker for ghost tours (as long as I have a buddy with me!) so that would be on my list for sure!
Brianna says
I really loved my time in Alexandria and I’ll definitely be back!
Heather Boothman says
This looks an adventurous packed trip! I really like how you have the itinerary all planned out for us 🙂
Brianna says
Make sure to visit if you ever swing through DC, it’s an easy trip by metro or water taxi.
Emily says
Looks like a really beautiful area – I love the look of the art centre!
Brianna says
The art center was really neat and all the artists inside are very approachable.
Michael Huxley says
I thought for a moment when I saw the title you meant one of my favourite cities in Africa! ;D I think a lot of the US, especially places like Washington, haven’t been on the backpacker or independent traveller radar much, probably because of the higher cost in comparison to S.America and SEAsia, but I would love to visit here someday. Thanks for the highlights!
Brianna says
There are certainly a lot more budget friendly options in the US once you get away from the major cities but a big draw with Washington is a lot of the museums and attractions are free. It’s a great walking city and much more European in style than many of the other East coast cities.
Surya Bhattacharya says
Okay, I really, REALLY need to make my way over to America. The last time I went was 7 years ago!!! Gadsby’s Tavern seems charming!
Brianna says
Gadsby’s Tavern is neat to stroll through but be sure to visit the independent cafes and restaurants in Old Town for some really great food.
Bob R says
I lived in DC for a summer several years ago, and had a job canvassing. My route included Alexandria, and this is nothing like I remember it. 🙂 Ditto Dave’s question about the brewpub: any really standouts among their selection?
Brianna says
Alexandria, especially the waterfront has been going through a revitalization. At Port City Brewing Co I enjoyed their Optimal Wit, a light and refreshing Belgian white ale. They’ve won awards for their lineup of IPAs though.
Lucy @ On the Luce says
I’d never even heard of Alexandria but it looks like a really charming place, one to remember for sure when I finally make the trip out to Washington DC.
Brianna says
Definitely! It’s an easy day trip either my water taxi or metro.
Adelina | PackMeTo says
What a cool area with lots of interesting things to do. I don’t think I’ve been despite hanging out in Washington DC a couple of times.
Brianna says
With so much to do in DC it can be hard to leave but if you want some history and charm without the crowds Alexandria makes for a great day!
Anu @ Country Hopping Couple says
That’s a lot of tourist attractions and things to do considering the size of Alexandria. The 18th century red brick buildings does seem to catch the eye.
Brianna says
The small size of Alexandria lets you explore a lot of things in a day or two without feeling too rushed and the Federalist style architecture makes for a very charming atmosphere.
Conan says
This makes feel guilty that I haven’t made the trip to Old Town in a while. Thanks for inspiring me to go back one of these days!
Brianna says
Sometimes its easy to overlook the gems so close to home.
Conan says
Yeah, I agree. Guess it’s easy to take it for granted, eh?
Conan says
Shoot, I should clarify. It’s easy to overlook the fascinating and wonderful places around you when you’re so close. Again, this post really inspires me to give Old Town a visit-I’m itching to have some crab cakes again!
Amy says
Great list! I always loved wandering around Old Town Alexandria when I lived in Arlington. Such a quaint neighborhood! My favorite thing to do (and my dog’s) was the doggy happy hour at Hotel Monaco. So much fun!
Brianna says
I loved how dog friendly Alexandria was!
Paul says
Brilliant article! There are so many places in the USA that I need to explore, this looks like a wonderful place to soak up some culture
Brianna says
Thanks Paul, its such a charming city!
Bianca @itsallbee says
I am all about #10, there is no better way to see the city that to eat your way through it!
Brianna says
I concur!
Alli says
Number 10 and number 21 are the two I would just be all over! Very interesting article of things to do in this charming town 🙂
Brianna says
The guys at DC Metro Food Tours are awesome, I’d definitely take another one of their tours.
Kate says
I’m embarrassed to say I’ve only been to big American cities and not old historic towns. This sounds very me though! So much to do and see. I love markets and centuries old architecture. I need to do more travel to places like this when I’m in the States. Great ideas and lovely photos
Brianna says
Visiting big cities in the US is certainly easier than seeking out the smaller towns due to public transportation but Alexandria is an easy metro ride or water taxi from DC.
Conan says
Alexandria and Old Town is about 10-15 minutes away over the Potomac River from DC, so it’s super convenient! Plus, Reagan National Airport is in Alexandria, meaning you won’t have to travel very far to visit.
Christina says
Looks like an awesome place to stroll around. The fruit salad looks sooo good.
Brianna says
I can’t imagine a better walking town.
Jay says
Great post. I’ve been to D.C. once and I liked it there. One thing I didn’t do was a tour like this. Next time I go there I would definitely remember this post and take a similar tour.
Brianna says
This was my first time to Alexandria but it definitely won’t be my last.
noel says
Wonderful tour, i love this city, you showed us some of the wonderful landmarks and places to visit in Alexandria. Time to go back again to visit.
Brianna says
It’s so picturesque and a great town to photograph.
The Wandering Wanderluster says
Sounds like there are lots of interesting things to do! I’ve not made it to the States yet so looks like I have plenty of places to keep me busy when I do…Alexandria included.
Brianna says
It’s an easy day or afternoon trip from DC and definitely worth a look!
antonette says
I never heard of Alexandria before (unless you mean the one in Egypt 😉 but it seems like a nice place to hang out for a bit. The bike option would be my favorite!
Brianna says
The path along the Potomac was a great place to bike!
Jen Seligmann says
Great list! I didn’t really know much about Alexandria until reading this but now I know how much cool stuff there is to do there, especially things that involve food.
Brianna says
I am all about find some great places to eat.
Laura says
Looks excellent, I will definitely do all 25 if I ever get there! Thanks for the list 🙂
Brianna says
Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for stopping by!
Sabina says
Wow, yet another place I’d never really heard of before but now that I have, I feel like I have to visit. Ah, why is the world so great! (I’m not reaaally complaining).
Brianna says
So many places, so little time!
Els says
There are so many places in the States that are unknown to us, Europeans. That’s what is so great about the blogging community, you can discover some real jewels! Thanks for sharing, Brianna!
Brianna says
Likewise with Europe. The blogging community really helps you to uncover some hidden gems.
Siobhan says
Pretty buildings, dogs and beer …sounds like a great place to me
Brianna says
What’s not to like?
Joao Sa says
Really loved your post ! I’ve never been to the US, let alone Washington, but I’ll make sure I’ll visit Alexandria when I go there ! The cobblestone streets look marvelous
Brianna says
Washington is one of my favorite cities in the US aand Alexandria makes for a great day trip.
Shikha (whywasteannualleave) says
I ‘ve never heard of this place but it sounds just lovely! The only trip to DC since I was a young child so I’m due a trip back there and it would be lovely to venture out towards Alexandria if I do 🙂
Brianna says
DC and Alexandria are definitely worth a visit!
Muriel says
The trolley is one of my favorite things! I have family in the area and I love visiting Alexandria. All of the history and architecture is so wonderful.
Brianna says
I absolutely love the Federalist style architectures and the cobblestone streets, its such a charming town and a great place to wander around.
Rashad Pharaon says
Looks like Alexandria exudes romance and art. A friend of mine moved there and told me about it, but I never gave visiting it much thought…not until I saw this post. There really is tons more to do than I imagined, and I am especially fond of the artistic side.
Brianna says
You’ll find pockets of creativity throughout the city, there really is a great artistic community here.
Upasna Verma says
#WeekendWanderlust led me here and I’m so glad it did. What an amazing blog you have here.
And that farmer’s market looks lovely!
Brianna says
Thank you so much for stopping by, I’m glad you enjoy my blog 🙂
Rachel says
There is so much variety of this things to do! I do love a good wander down old streets, and sampling foods at quaint places. Looks like a relaxing and enjoyable place to spend a weekend.
Brianna says
Those are two of my favorite things to do anywhere I travel to. 🙂
Margherita @The Crowded Planet says
Alexandria looks really nice. I love the look of that hotel, and the food sounds great… give me a Sunday Brunch every Sunday!
Brianna says
An al fresco brunch at that!
Tara Lepore and Jessi Honard says
Man, we love the D.C. area, and Alexandria is just the kind of place I’d love to stroll around. Jessi lived near D.C. for a little while and I think Alexandria might be a great stop on our travel to-do list 🙂 Great post!
Brianna says
Thanks for stopping by! The charm of Alexandria compliments the grandiousity of DC quite well.
Mindi @ 2foodtrippers says
Alexandria is so cute. Thanks for the reminder to plan a return visit.
Brianna says
I had a fantastic time and will definitely return.
Mandie @ RamblingMandie says
What an adorable town!! My brother lives close enough that I may have to convince him to let me come stay & head up here for a weekend getaway!
Brianna says
I highly recommend it, Old Town is so charming!
Cristy says
Oh how I just love to feel the vintage atmosphere of this place. Makes me recall those movies I watched before. But seriously? A nighttime ghost tour with Alexandria Colonial Tours? Sounds interesting!
Brianna says
The Old Town is so charming and the residents take great pride in maintaining its historic feel.
Charles McCool says
You did not even mention King Street Blues. Thank you for keeping it a secret!
Brianna says
Looks like I need to check that out next time I’m in NoVa
Melissa says
I just love Old Town Alexandria! Been there many times!
Brianna says
I loved it too, I’ll definitely be back!
The Roaming Renegades says
We went to DC last year and loved it but we would have loved to visit here if we had know. It looks like it has a real historical and authentic feel, those streets look amazing! Love learning about these places I never knew about!
Mark Rachey says
What would you recommend doing on a cool Sunday in Jan. around the Alexandria area?
Brianna says
Hi Mark, I would recommend you start off with one of the fabulous brunches in Old Town, visit Mount Vernon and or/the Masonic Temple and take a free self guided walking tour http://www.visitalexandriava.com/things-to-do/tours/#self%20guided . I also really enjoyed the food tour with DC Metro Food Tours, You get to sample a lot of great food while getting a history lesson on the side.
James says
I love Old Town as well, but I was wondering is there a place that would be good for a single person to visit to where they can meet others?
Brianna says
Old Town is lined with bars and restaurants that are very singles friendly.
Thomas Jones says
Birchmere’s in Del Ray, not Old Town (not really even a walkable distance from Old Town unless you consider DCA to be walkable)
MariaAbroad says
You are so right, Alexandria is such a perfect getaway from DC. I went there in January and it was so beautiful. I loved the Art Factory with all the little galleries and work shops, where you can meet and talk to the artists, watch them paint and discover new art in all price ranges.
Brianna says
Don’t forget all the tasty restaurants!
Christopher Rudder says
A colleague of mine raves about Washington DC so I’m planning on going there. I’m glad Alexandria is close as you’ve convinced me to visit. Great post…
Brianna says
Alexandria is one of my favorite weekend cities, you’ll love it there!
Bella WW says
I love Alexandria! I’ve been there several times when I was living in the US (Virginia)
Brianna says
Seriously, isn’t Alexandria the best?
Whitney says
I just bought a new home in VA http://www.drhorton.com/Virginia/Northern-Virginia after being relocated for my job and when a friend of mine suggested we go to Alexandria I was thinking I would hate it and i was so shocked to love it here. I will for sure be back over and over. thanks
Michelle W says
I went here in 2008- I loved it! It is so quaint and historical, plus Gadsby’s Tavern was delicious!
cassy says
holy cow! some of the architecture and colors are stunning here. how cool!
Alina says
I wish I had visited this place when I was in DC 3 years ago! The Spite House looks especially interesting, and totally agree about the Instagrammable part!
Kristin @ Camels & Chocolate says
One of my best friends from home moved to Alexandria last year (her husband works for Air Force One) and we’re really hoping to get to visit her in the spring. She lives in one of these lovely, huge townhouses and I’ve always adored that area. Bookmarking your list for then!
Brianna says
I’ll meet you when you come up!
Elena (@TravelingBytes) says
We used to live in Alexandria years ago. I have warmest memories about this beautiful town. Looking through this list reminded me how much I miss it. Fontaine Caffe used to be our every Sunday brunch place – great vibes pared with great French inspired cuisine. After that, spending the rest of the day at Torpedo Factory was another favorite pastime. There are so many different artists there that every visit led to some delightful discovery.