A visit to Old Alexandria, Virginia, feels like stepping back in time, where the charm of historic buildings blends with waterfront views and modern boutiques. Located along the Potomac River, Old Town Alexandria offers a unique mix of colonial history, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty. As a nationally designated historic district, Old Town Alexandria is best explored on foot. Century-old architecture, red brick sidewalks, and cobblestone streets give this area its quaint character and charm. Since many parts of the area have uneven surfaces, it's important to walk carefully and wear comfortable shoes.
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Wilkes Tunnel, the former railroad tunnel used during the Civil War
The view inside the tunnel which was completed in 1856 for the Orange & Alexandria Railroad
The “Cherry Blossom” riverboat on the Potomac River waterfront
Some historic, some newer buildings along the waterfront. The waterfront is perfect for a relaxing stroll, with plenty of benches and great spots to take in the views of the river and the skyline of Washington, D.C. You can also take a boat tour or a water taxi to explore the area from a different perspective.
Alexandria’s waterfront offers water taxi service to Georgetown, the National Mall, and George Washington’s Mount Vernon
The former loading dock of an old warehouse building
The cobblestone street on Captain’s Row
Brick-lined sidewalks
Brightly color front doors welcome visitors
The Farmers' Market, located at Market Square, is one of the oldest continuously operating farmers' markets in the US, having been held at the same site since 1753.
Gentry Row’s row houses include Georgian and Federal-style homes
Brick walls and garden doors
Some houses have flickering gas lamps and flags
Black and white
Handsome old homes
There are plenty of parks to enjoy, including the Waterfront Park and Founders Park on the Potomac River.
The neon pink art installation speaks love
The formal entrances to a few elegant homes
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Captains Row, known for its historic charm and colorful houses.
Flowers and greenery decorate this older home
The plaque on some of the older homes are fire plaques had different symbols to identify which private fire-engine company provided service to this house. This was before there was universally provided fire-fighting as a public service.
Enjoy the laid-back patio of Virtue Feed & Grain near the waterfront.
The historic atmosphere in century-old buildings
Looking down one of the alleys
King Street is the main thoroughfare of Old Town and is lined with an eclectic mix of shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants.
Smoke shop entrance
American flags adorn some of the homes
Stately old home
King Street
Some picturesque colorful homes on Queen Street
Christ Church, the 18th century English-style church on N. Washington Street
George Washington Masonic Memorial at 101 Callahan Drive
A short water taxi ride can take you over to Georgetown waterfront.
Hard Time Cafe on King Street
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Rainbow walkway
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The Torpedo Factory Ground began production in 1920, and this building held the completed torpedoes as they waited to be shipped via the Potomac. Today this building houses the Torpedo Factory Art Center.
Inside the Torpedo Factory
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Water taxis
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Inside Pop’s Ice Cream Shop
At the Carlyle House, a Georgian manor house built in 1753 by merchant and city founder John Carlyle.
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What you should know:
There are many uneven walking surfaces in town, wear comfortable shoes.
Public restrooms are available.
You could spend a couple of hours to entire days here.
This is a walkable town.
There are many restaurant options.
There are a few house and garden tour options.
Look into buying the “Key to the City” at the Visitors Center.
For more information: Alexandria VA