Things to Do in Alexandria, Virginia

Once you’ve experienced all the pomp and circumstance of Washington, D.C., Alexandria, Va., can be a welcome retreat. Sure, there’s still an abundance of American history but it’s on a more manageable, personal scale.

After you’ve climbed the stairs of the Washington Monument in D.C., you can walk in the footsteps of the first president in his hometown. Enjoy lunch in the same restaurant where George Washington celebrated his birthday, then visit the apothecary where Martha Washington placed her orders for their household items.

Established in 1749 along the banks of the Potomac River, the town of Alexandria, now known as Old Town, was a bustling colonial port prior to the American Revolution and home to merchants and seamen who built elegant townhouses and businesses along its cobblestone streets. Today, many of these buildings have been preserved and restored offering an authentic feel of colonial life. 

Key Historic Attractions

Gadsby’s Tavern

While you can eat here, I would stick to the museum to get a peek at this historic tavern, which was once frequented by Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, James Madison and the Marquis de Lafayette. Comprised of two buildings, the museum features colonial furniture and artifacts with 30-minute tours 15 minutes before and after the hour. 

If you insist, have lunch, dinner or brunch in the tavern where waiters are dressed in colonial garb and strolling musicians entertain in the evenings and on Sunday. Soak in the authentic colonial atmosphere and just remember you’re not there for the food. 134 N. Royal St. Tel. 703-838-4242. www.gadsbystavern.org

 

• The interior of the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum.

Ben Fink

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

It doesn’t take much time to go through this museum, but there is something appealing about walking around in what was once a warehouse for medicinal and household items in the colonial era (since 1792) until it closed its doors in 1933. The apothecary appears almost exactly as it always has and is best known for its famous customers, including George and Martha Washington. 105-107 S. Fairfax St. Tel. 703-836-3713. www.apothecarymuseum.org

Art and Museums

Torpedo Factory

Even the most jaded art lover can find something to appreciate here. Located just off the wharf from the boat dock, this giant warehouse was an actual torpedo factory during World War II. Today, the space has been reconfigured into individual galleries and studios featuring the works of more than 182 artists working in a variety of mediums.

Visit the galleries, talk to the artists and, in many cases, watch them at work. The Torpedo Factory also is home to the Archeology Museum, which showcases objects unearthed in Alexandria dating back to colonial times. 105 N. Union St. Tel. 703-838-4565. www.torpedofactory.org

Alexandria Black History Museum

While not centrally located in Old Town, this is worth the detour. Housed in what was once Alexandria’s segregated library for its African-American residents, the museum provides an interesting look at black history in Alexandria. Exhibits include photographs, African tools and weapons, and other artifacts. A visit can be a helpful reminder as you are walking around admiring the quaintness of Old Town that in the 19th century, Alexandria’s thriving port was at the center of the slave trade. 902 Wythe St. Tel. 703-838-4356. www.alexblackhistory.org

 

• Once a factory for torpedoes, the since-renovated warehouse is now a center for modern art in Alexandria.

Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association (ACVA)

Principle Gallery

This small fine art gallery always manages to have an impressive display of paintings by regional artists with a focus on realism. A definite step up from the Torpedo Factory, this small gallery with its friendly, knowledgeable staff is well respected and a great source on the local art scene. 208 King St. Tel. 703-739-9326. www.principlegallery.com

Alexandria Shopping

Now for the real reason we go to Old Town: great shopping. Start on King Street at the waterfront and work your way up the street. The first four blocks and its side streets are full of boutiques with fashion for women, children and even pets. As you head past Washington Street, the emphasis transitions to interiors with a variety of upscale and downscale antiques, accessories and furnishings. Visit OldTownBoutiqueDistrict.com for a great listing of boutiques and pick up a copy of its brochure in one of the boutiques listed, which features an easy-to-use map.

Other shopping highlights include:

Why Not? Terrific children’s store featuring fun European clothing for babies through size 7, as well as an excellent selection of books and toys. 200 King St. Tel. 703-548-4420.

La Cuisine. This small store manages to stock an impressive selection of chef’s equipment, gadgets, cookbooks and even spices and hard-to-find baking accessories. 323 Cameron St. Tel. 703-836-4435. www.lacuisineus.com

 

• Outdoor dining in Alexandria is popular in the summer months when warm weather continues throughout the evening.

Richard Nowitz

Chateau Animaux. My friend swears by this chi-chi pet store featuring cute outfits for your favorite canine, as well as fresh-baked, all-natural dog treats and gourmet specialties, including birthday cakes. 101-A S. Saint Asaph St. Tel. 703-518-5188. www.chateau-animaux.com

Random Harvest. Large space full of classic antique furniture refinished and covered in muslin, as well as interesting decorative accessories all laid out in inspiring tableaus. 810 King St. Tel. 703-548-8820. www.randomharvesthome.com

Hooray for Books. Locally owned bookstore with a terrific variety of children’s books and storytimes, including a storytime in Japanese on Tuesdays. 1555 King St. Tel. 703-548-4092. www.hooray4books.com

Restaurants

After a day of sightseeing and shopping, be sure to relax in one (or two) small, locally owned bistros, cafés and pubs found throughout Old Town. [Read more about Alexandria Restaurants.]

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