As one of many oldest cities within the nation, Alexandria, VA, has no scarcity of distinctive issues to do. Situated simply 20 minutes from D.C., Alexandria is typically neglected by its neighboring metropolis. Nonetheless, Alexandria affords an enormous metropolis vibe whereas sustaining its historic attraction.
Whether or not you’re contemplating residing in Alexandria and seeking to lease an residence in Del Ray, or probably out there to purchase a house in Eisenhower West, this metropolis affords residents an countless variety of issues to do. Alexandria would be the proper place for you. From museums and metropolis excursions to exploring new neighborhoods and attempting new eating places, there’s one thing for everybody. See what distinctive issues locals like to do in Alexandria.
The Torpedo Manufacturing unit is a can’t-miss attraction
Based in 1974 and an Alexandria landmark for almost 5 years, the Torpedo Manufacturing unit Artwork Middle is house to the nation’s largest assortment of artists’ open studios underneath one roof. You’ll discover a wide range of artwork together with work, ceramics, images, jewellery, stained glass, sculptures, printmaking, fiber, and extra.
Enjoyable for all ages
“Situated proper within the historic waterfront space in Outdated City Alexandria, the Artwork Middle homes many artist studios and galleries, and guests are welcome to pop in,” shares Linda Samuel of Kid Friendly DC, a weblog that shares upcoming occasions in Alexandria. “There’s every kind of artwork to see and store, from traditional to quirky, in numerous mediums with one thing that every one ages will dig.”
Help native artists
Native author Carrie Cochran of Cochran Writing & Editing says, “When you’d like a enjoyable alternative to assist native artists, swing by the Torpedo Manufacturing unit. This 3-story constructing was a functioning torpedo manufacturing facility on the waterfront, however now it serves as a central hub to Alexandria’s artwork scene! Inside, you’ll discover workshops and showrooms for dozens of artists who create the whole lot from work to glasswork to paper mache sculptures. You’re positive to search out one thing distinctive.”
Watch artists in motion
“Our favourite free spot to spend time is the historic Torpedo Manufacturing unit,” states FunFitnessFamily, a weblog about native adventures everybody can take pleasure in. “Most artists work on-site, so you’ll be able to watch them create. Don’t miss the Alexandria Archology Museum on the third flooring. This small hidden gem has some fascinating artifacts and hands-on actions.”
2) Take a ship tour of the Potomac River
Alexandria is house to what was as soon as one of many ten busiest ports in America alongside the Potomac River. In the present day, the river affords loads of actions to accommodate Alexandria’s residents, from boat cruises to excursions.
Journey bloggers Cecilia and Scott at Lovicarious share, “It comes as no shock that one of the vital distinctive issues to do within the waterfront city of Alexandria is to take a ship tour of the Potomac River. Guests can select between a romantic dinner cruise, a historic tour-by-boat that includes George Washington’s Mount Vernon property, or a memorable journey on board the Cherry Blossom, one in every of America’s final working sternwheeler ferry boats. Floating down the Potomac offers a few of the finest views of Outdated City Alexandria and the encompassing landmarks, together with Nationwide Harbor and Washington DC.”
3) Study some historical past on the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Based in 1792 by Edward Stabler, the Apothecary offered medicines, family provides, and cooking provides to the locals of Alexandria. Now, visiting this museum is like going again in time. Glass bottles nonetheless line the cabinets containing the identical medicines and herbs from when the enterprise immediately closed in 1933.
“The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is one in every of Alexandria’s oldest constantly run companies – it’s solely ever been an apothecary and a museum,” states Paige Watts, journey blogger of Paige Minds the Gap. “It’s a small area, however 20,000 historic objects like hand-blown glass bottles, medical gear, and natural botanicals exist. A tour of the Apothecary affords a take a look at the medicines folks used to take and which of them we nonetheless use immediately. You’ll additionally find out about a few of the Apothecary’s high-profile patrons, like Martha Washington.”
The Apothecary additionally hosts particular occasions, together with the Attics and Alleys tour and two Harry Potter occasions, that are an enormous hit for followers of the Wizarding World.
4) Take your pup for a stroll alongside the riverfront
“Alexandria is inclusive — and never only for people,” says journey blogger Corinne Mandell at Reverberations. “The riverfront city may be very dog-friendly, and your furry pal will little question love strolling alongside the waterfront with you or previous the historic buildings. Numerous eating places in Alexandria’s downtown space in and round King Avenue provide dog-friendly out of doors seating and water bowls.”
5) Take a strolling tour of Outdated City
Based in 1749, Outdated City Alexandria is house to greater than 200 eating places and outlets alongside historic museums and new experiences on the waterfront.
“Alexandria Colonial Excursions is an area firm that provides ghost and historical past excursions round city,” says Whitney C. O’Halek, Journey Blogger of Quick Whitt Travel. “Each are enjoyable, entertaining, and acceptable for all ages, as their guides make it a behavior to learn their viewers. Once I lived in Outdated City, I beloved studying in regards to the historical past of my neighborhood on strolling excursions, together with my constructing. It’s simply one in every of my favourite issues to do and one thing I like to recommend to all my family and friends after they go to the realm.”
6) Try Queen Mom’s Fried Rooster
Sherree Williams, Govt Director and Writer/Editor The Culinary Scoop explains, “In August of 2020, Chef Rahman “Rock” Harper opened Queen Mother’s Fried Chicken as a loving tribute to his mother Carole Harper, affectionately recognized to most as “Mom.” The “Hell’s Kitchen” season 3 winner has taken his mother’s culinary influences and his personal skilled twists to create a menu of fried rooster sandwiches, indulgent sides, tasty sauces, and traditional Sunday eats.” Queen Mom’s Fried Rooster is positioned inside La Cocina Café, 918 South Lincoln Avenue, #2, Arlington, VA.
7) Let your aggressive aspect shine throughout trivia
Enjoying Pour House Trivia is a chance to have enjoyable and play in opposition to a few of your fellow Alexandrians at workforce trivia. From Scooby Doo to geography and physics to the most recent popular culture shenanigans (and infinitely extra), Pour Home Trivia goals to supply glorious, partaking questions whereas making a enjoyable environment.
8) Spend a day exploring Outdated City
Buy groceries and luxuriate in lunch or dinner
“We’re very pleased with the Outdated City group of boutiques and fantastic eating places, says Amanda G. Mertins, President of retail retailer Patina Polished Living. “It’s enjoyable to stroll by way of Outdated City, go to all of the distinctive companies, and finish the day with a pleasant meal at any variety of eating places.”
Discover the neighborhood simply with the miles of trails
“With its massive historic district, colourful artwork scene, and superb eating, Outdated City Alexandria is one in every of Virginia’s most beloved locations,” says journey blogger George Kashouh of Travel the Whole World. “Town is pedestrian and biker-friendly, with miles of trails linking the whole lot from George Washington’s property to a former torpedo manufacturing facility that’s now a big artwork gallery. My favourite exercise will all the time be crusing out of Outdated City’s waterfront on a scorching summer season day with the nation’s capital in view.”
Finish your day alongside the Potomac River Waterfront
“Alexandria is one in every of my favourite northern Virginia locations; there may be a lot to do and see,” shares journey blogger Amy Stark of A Traveling Broad. “I particularly love Outdated City Alexandria, its historic structure, and cobblestone streets. A enjoyable technique to spend a day is to stroll down King Avenue, stopping to discover the number of eclectic boutiques alongside the best way. Subsequent cease is The Charthouse Restaurant, a waterfront favourite, for a drink or scrumptious meal. Then finish your go to with a leisurely stroll alongside the attractive Potomac River waterfront.”
9) Fulfill your starvation at Ada’s on the River
Constructed round a customized wood-burning oven with breathtaking panoramic views of the Potomac River, Ada’s on the River is a can’t-miss eating expertise.
“Probably the most distinctive issues in Alexandria is brunch at Ada’s on the River,” says Kelci Reedy, author of the restaurant weblog Foodish Ways. “The menu has a stellar number of meals objects, which incorporates vegan/vegetarian choices. Their cocktail menu additionally has a few of the finest drinks within the space. Ada’s on the River additionally has attractive views of the Potomac River and is positioned close to Waterfront Park.”
10) Try the “Spite Homes”
“Outdated City Alexandria is understood for its historic homes courting again to the 18th century,” explains native blogger Matthew Eng of Offbeat NOVA. “One among my favourite issues to do on a transparent day is taking a brisk strolling tour of the Outdated City “Spite Homes.” These properties, usually known as alley homes, had been seen as an affordable technique to construct a slender house between two present constructions in an alleyway.”
Eng goes on to share, “The strolling tour takes you on a big rectangle to the waterfront of Outdated City and again. Begin by getting a superb cup of Panamanian espresso at Through Vulcan. Kind within the following addresses to your miniaturized strolling tour: 523 Queen Avenue, 205 King Avenue, 403 Prince Avenue, and 1401 Prince Avenue. Take pleasure in your espresso and stroll whereas viewing these distinctive buildings.”
11) Take pleasure in out of doors actions alongside the Potomac River
“Discover the historic Outdated City, bustling waterfronts, and the fantastically preserved 18th and Nineteenth-century structure in Alexandria, Virginia,” suggests Adrienne Brown, Proprietor & Lead Journey Advisor at Breathless Getaways. “Alexandria affords over 180 eating places, boutiques, and intimate sights.”
Brown additionally suggests overlooking the Potomac River whereas having brunch and watching the boats bobbing within the water. “After brunch, take pleasure in bikes, boats, kayaks, paddle boarding, and extra.”