35 Best Things to do in Alexandria!

Located along the western bank of the Potomac River, just a stone’s throw from Washington, D.C., Alexandria in Virginia, is a charming city with a rich history and vibrant culture. Known for its well preserved 18th and 19th century architecture, cobblestone streets, and waterfront views, Alexandria offers visitors a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, dining, or simply enjoying scenic views, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Alexandria during your visit to Virginia.

---

1. Historic Attractions

Old Town Alexandria

Located along the Potomac River waterfront, Old Town Alexandria is a historic district offering a mix of colonial charm and modern attractions. The area is known for its brick-lined streets, centuries-old architecture, and independent shops, making it a gr eat place to explore on foot. King Street Mile is the heart of Old Town, featuring restaurants, boutiques, and historic landmarks with signs. Visitors can take a free trolley along King Street or enjoy a water taxi ride to Washington, D.C. Old Town Alexandria is also home to the Spite House, the narrowest historic home in America, built in 1830.

George Washington Masonic National Memorial

The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is dedicated to honoring the legacy of George Washington and his connection to Freemasonry. The memorial stands 333 feet tall and inspired by the ancient Lighthouse of Ostia, completed in 1970. Inside, visitors can explore museum exhibits, Masonic artifacts, and historical displays that highlight Washington’s role as a Freemason. The Grand Hall features a towering statue of Washington, while the upper floors has meeting rooms and a library. Guided tours provide insights into the symbolism, it’s architecture and history of the memorial.

Woodlawn & Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey House

The Woodlawn & Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey House covers 126 acres and includes two historic homes with distinct stories. Completed in 1805, Woodlawn was gifted by George Washington to his family members. Originally a plantation, it later became a free labor colony when Quakers purchased the property in the 1840s. Over time, the house was built modernized, and in the end of 1950s, it became the first public site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Built in 1940, the Pope-Leighey House for Loren and was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and Charlotte Pope in Falls Church.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon

The George Washington’s Mount Vernon was built in 1734 and later expanded by Washington into the grand home seen today. The estate features restored buildings, gardens, and a working farm, showing daily life in the 18th century. Washington’s Tomb is a key site, where he and Martha Washington are buried. The museum and education center provide exhibits on Washington’s leadership and contributions to the nation. Seasonal events, including reenactments and special tours, help bring history to life. The mansion’s interior showcases period furnishings and personal items from Washington’s life.

Carlyle House Historic Park

The Carlyle House Historic Park is a Georgian-style mansion, built in 1753 by John Carlyle, a wealthy merchant and one of Alexandria’s founders. The house quickly became a center for social and political life, hosting important meetings, including one in 1755, where British General Edward Braddock planned military campaigns during the French and Indian War. Today, the house is a museum, offering guided tours that explore colonial life, architecture, and the Carlyle family’s history. The museum hosts special events, exhibits, and educational programs, making it a good choice for history lovers.

Robert E. Lee Boyhood Home

Built in 1795, the Robert E. Lee Boyhood Home is an example of Federal-style architecture, featuring brick construction with white trim. The house was originally owned by John Potts, Jr., who worked for the Potomac Canal Company under George Washington. Later, it was rented by William Henry Fitzhugh to Henry Lee III, also known as Light-Horse Harry Lee, who moved in with his family in 1811. The home is also part of the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register. The Robert E. Lee Boyhood Home has been privately owned and was recently sold for $4.2 million.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Alexandria Waterfront

The Alexandria Waterfront is a scenic spot offering a mix of history and outdoor activities along the Potomac River. Visitors can enjoy walking and biking trails, waterfront parks, and boat tours that showcase the beauty of the area. Waterfront Park features statues, monuments, and seating areas for relaxation. The Old Town Alexandria Waterfront is filled with restaurants, shops, and historic buildings, making it a lively place to explore. Seasonal events, including outdoor concerts and festivals, bring excitement to the waterfront. Kayaking are available for those who want to explore the river up close.

Fort Ward Park

The Fort Ward Park is a historic site preserving one of the best-kept Union forts from the Civil War. Built in 1861 as part of Washington’s defense system, the fort played a key role in protecting the capital. The Fort Ward Museum displays Civil War artifacts, including uniforms, weapons, and personal items from soldiers. The park’s Northwest Bastion gives insight into military engineering of the time, offering a glimpse into how Union forces secured the area. Seasonal reenactments and guided tours help bring history to life, while educational programs provide deep insights about the war’s impact.

Mount Vernon Trail

The Mount Vernon Trail is an 18 miles paved path that runs along the Potomac River, offering a great outdoor experience. Connecting George Washington’s Mount Vernon to Theodore Roosevelt Island, the trail passes through Fairfax County, Alexandria, and Arlington, making it a popular route for walkers, runners, and cyclists. With over one million visitors annually, the path takes you through parks, historic sites, and scenic waterfront areas, providing plenty of stops along the way. Jones Point Park, Gravelly Point, and Belle Haven Park are some of the highlights, each offering unique sights and activities.

Hiking and Nature Trails

Alexandria offers a variety of hiking and nature trails that provide a peaceful escape into the outdoors. The Mount Vernon Trail is one of the popular paths, stretching 18 miles along the Potomac River, connecting George Washington’s Mount Vernon to Theodore Roosevelt Island. Another great spot is Dora Kelley Nature Park, features wooded trails and diverse wildlife, making it ideal for birdwatching. Monticello Park is famous for its seasonal bird migrations, attracting nature lovers and photographers. For more secluded experience, Winkler Botanical Preserve offers wooded trails, a small waterfall, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Boating Tours

Boating tours in Alexandria, offer visitors a chance to explore the Potomac River by enjoying scenic views and learning about the area’s history. Some boat companies like Potomac Water Taxi or Washington Sailing Marina provides sightseeing tours and day cruises, allowing guests to see landmarks from the water and offers historical sailing experiences, giving insight into the Continental Navy during the American Revolution. Seasonal boat shows and maritime festivals bring the people together for unique events. Private yacht rentals offer a luxurious experience for special occasions or group outings.

River Farm

Built in the 1920s, the River Farm was once part of George Washington’s farmland, it is now transformed into headquarters of the American Horticultural Society. The estate features gardens, meadows, and woodlands, providing visitors with many landscapes to explore. It showcase a variety of native and ornamental plants, offering seasonal beauty throughout the year. A favorite attraction is the Children’s Garden, where kids can enjoy interactive spaces while learning about nature. River Farm hosts garden workshops and special events, connecting people with horticulture and conservation efforts.

Jones Point Park

The Jones Point Park is located just south of Old Town along the Potomac River. Once a center for shipping, manufacturing, and transportation, the park played a key role in the city’s early development. The Jones Point Lighthouse, built in 1855, is the last remaining riverine lighthouse in Virginia, adding to the park’s historical significance. Visitors can explore a gravel interpretive trail that highlights the area’s use by American Indians and its importance in navigation and shipbuilding. The park also features two fishing piers, a canoe launch ramp, and multi-use fields, making it a great spot for recreation.

Belle Haven Park, Virginia

Located along the George Washington Memorial Parkway, Belle Haven Park, Virginia offering visitors access waterfront activities. Surrounded by Dyke Marsh, a 485 acres tidal wetland, the park is home to diverse wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching. The Mount Vernon Trail runs through the park, attracting walkers and cyclists who enjoy the beautiful river views. Visitors can enjoy fishing and kayaking, with a boat ramp available at Belle Haven Marina for easy access. The marina is operated by the National Park Service, offers boat rentals, making it a convenient spot for outdoor recreation.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Alexandria History Museum

The Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, is a Greek Revival building dating back to 1839, originally serving as a library and lecture hall. Today, the museum showcases exhibits, artifacts, photographs, and documents that explore Alexandria’s history and role in American development. Visitors can engage with interactive displays and attend special events, including lectures and educational programs that provide deeper insight into the city’s past. The museum highlights Alexandria’s connection to the Civil War, early trade, and cultural movements, making it a valuable site for history lovers.

National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum

The National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum is a part of the United States Patent and Trademark Office Headquarters and serves as the National Monument to Innovation. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the achievements of more than 600 inventors, showcasing their contributions to science, technology, and everyday life. The Gallery of Icons is a highlight, displaying the names and stories of Hall of Fame inductees in a unique hexagonal pattern. The Intellectual Property Power exhibit explains the importance of patents and trademarks, showing how they shape modern inventions.

Alexandria Archaeology Museum

The Alexandria Archaeology Museum showcases 10,000 years of human history, with artifacts recovered from archaeological digs, including pottery, tools, and personal belongings from early settlers. Exhibits highlight the lives of Native Americans, colonial residents, and Civil War soldiers, offering a broad view of Alexandria’s past. One of its most interesting features is the interactive lab, where visitors can watch archaeologists work on real discoveries. The museum hosts educational programs, guided tours, live demo and special exhibits, making it a great place for families and history lovers.

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

The Gadsby’s Tavern Museum consists of two buildings, a 1785 tavern and the 1792 City Tavern and Hotel, which hosted important figures like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and the Marquis de Lafayette. Named after John Gadsby, who ran the tavern from 1796 to 1808, the establishment was known for its hospitality, supported by a large enslaved labor force. Today, visitors can explore period rooms, historical exhibits, and guided tours that bring the past to life. The museum hosts special events, lectures, and reenactments, allowing guests to experience colonial traditions firsthand.

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum was originally a family-run business founded in 1792 and operated from 1805 to 1933. The museum showcases a vast collection of herbal botanicals, hand-blown glass, and medical equipment, giving visitors an idea about how medicine was made and sold in the past. The site also holds archival materials, including journals, prescription books, and invoices, offering insight into the daily operations of an apothecary. Today, visitors can explore the museum and its exhibits through guided tours, learning about the role of apothecaries in early American life.

Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden

The Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden is a historic site that has witnessed over 200 years of American history. It was built in 1785 and has been home to 37 members of the Lee family, as well as Union soldiers during the Civil War and later influential figures like John L. Lewis, a labor leader. The beautiful walled garden, originally designed in the 1850s, features magnolia, black walnut, and gingko trees. and it’s also a Certified Wildlife Habitat, supporting local pollinators and birds. It offers guided tours and special programs, helping visitors explore the lives of the people who lived and worked there.

Alexandria Black History Museum

The Alexandria Black History Museum is a place that highlights the African American experience in the city. It is in the Parker-Gray Historic District, an area rich in Black history. It was originally the Robert Robinson Library, built in 1940 as the first library for African Americans in segregated Alexandria. Today, it serves as a space for education, with exhibits on local and national Black history. The museum has a Watson Reading Room, featuring thousands of books and documents related to African American heritage. It hosts lectures, film screenings, and special events, helping visitors engage with history.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Torpedo Factory Art Center

The Torpedo Factory Art Center was originally built as a U.S. Naval Torpedo Station in 1918 before being transformed into an art hub in 1974. Today, it houses over 160 working artists and features 82 studios, seven galleries, and workshops where visitors can see artists creating work in painting, ceramics, photography, jewelry, stained glass, fiber, printmaking, and sculpture. The center hosts exhibits, art sales, and interactive programs, making it an exciting place to experience world class art. Inside, the Art League Gallery and School offers classes for artists of all levels, adding educational opportunities.

Green Spring Gardens

Covering 31 acres, the Green Spring Gardens features over 20 themed demonstration gardens, showcasing different landscaping styles and plant collections, including a native plant garden and a wooded stream valley with ponds. Visitors can explore a greenhouse filled with tropical plants, adding variety of flora on display. The historic house, built in the 1770s, is part of a national historic district and offers insight into colonial life, making it a unique addition to the park. Seasonal gardening workshops, educational programs, and special events allow visitors to learn and engage with horticulture.

Escape Room Live Alexandria

The Escape Room Live Alexandria offers Hollywood-style sets and award-winning puzzle designs, making it one of the most exciting places for entertainment. Visitors can choose from different themed rooms, including Sherlock Holmes, Edgar Allan Poe, and The Wizard’s Apothecary, each designed to challenge players with unique puzzles and mysteries. Groups work together to solve clues and escape within 60 minutes, making it a great activity for friends, families, and corporate teams. The venue is ranked highly on TripAdvisor and Google, known for its engaging gameplay and detailed set designs.

Chinquapin Park Recreation Center

The Chinquapin Park Recreation Center features a 25 meters indoor pool and diving well, making it a popular destination for swimming and aquatic programs. Inside, visitors can access a fitness room, racquetball courts, and locker rooms, providing opportunities for exercise and recreation. Outside, the facility offers tennis courts, a basketball court, sand volleyball, and a playground. Nature trails and picnic areas within the park create a peaceful space for relaxation. The center hosts sports leagues, fitness classes, and rental spaces for events, keeping the community engaged year-round.

Golfing Courses

Alexandria offers several great golf courses for players of all skill levels, providing scenic views and challenging layouts. Belle Haven Country Club features an 18-hole course designed by Arthur Hills, with practice facilities, a pro shop, and beautiful views of the Potomac River. Greendale Golf Course, a public 18-hole course, offers rolling terrain, Bermuda fairways, and water hazards, with the 17th hole providing a spectacular overlook of the entire course. Pinecrest Golf Course is a 9-hole course with hilly landscapes and ponds, making it a fun and strategic choice for golfers looking for a quicker round.

5. Natural Attractions

Huntley Meadows Park

Covering 1,500 acres of wetlands, forests, and meadows, Huntley Meadows Park is known for its wildlife-rich wetlands, it is one of the best places for birdwatching in the region. A boardwalk trail takes you through the marsh, allowing visitors to see birds, turtles, and other wildlife up close. The park also features forest trails, perfect for quiet walks surrounded by nature. The visit or center offers exhibits and programs, helping guests learn about the local ecosystem. Seasonal events, including guided nature walks and wildlife observation programs, provide deep insights into the park’s environment.

Mount Vernon District Park

The Mount Vernon District Park features several miles of trails through wooded areas and wildlife spotting, making it a popular spot for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. A skills area for mountain bikers provides a space to practice techniques and navigate obstacles. The Mount Vernon Trail runs through the park, connecting visitors to scenic spots along the Potomac River. Nearby, the Mount Vernon Rec Center offers additional amenities, including sports facilities and fitness programs. Seasonal events and outdoor workshops provide opportunities to engage with the park throughout the year.

Winkler Botanical Preserve

Spanning 44 acres in Mark Center area, Winkler Botanical Preserve offering visitors scenic trails, a lake, and a waterfall. Established in 1979 by the Winkler family, the preserve is dedicated to protect the area’s natural beauty inside the urban development. Trails leads through the woods, leading visitors past streams and native plants, making it a great spot for nature walks. The Catherine Lodge, a private structure within the preserve, blending history with the natural setting. The preserve supports local conservation efforts, helping maintain a thriving environment for wildlife and native plant species.

Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve

Covering 485 acres, Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve offering visitors a chance to explore one of the largest remaining freshwater tidal wetlands in the Washington metropolitan area. It features tidal marsh, floodplain, and swamp forest, creating a rich habitat for wildlife. The Haul Road Trail, a 3⁄4 mile path, passing through different habitats, allowing visitors to experience the marsh up close. The best way to explore the tidal waterways is by boat or kayak, with rentals available at Belle Haven Marina nearby. It is managed by the National Park Service, ensuring conservation efforts to protect its ecosystem.

6. Day Trips and Excursions

Piscataway Park, MD

Planning a day trip to Piscataway Park takes about 30 minutes drive from Alexandria, making it an easy getaway. Covering over 200 acres, park offers nature trails, boardwalks, and scenic views of the Potomac River. The Accokeek Foundation manages part of the park, offering educational programs and conservation efforts. Visitors can explore the National Colonial Farm, which showcases historic farming techniques and early American life. The park has a fishing pier, picnic areas, and woodland trails, providing plenty of outdoor activities and is home to bald eagles, beavers, deer, foxes, and ospreys.

Washington, D.C.

From Alexandria, a day trip to Washington, D.C. is just a short drive or metro ride away, making it easy to visit famous landmarks. Start the day at the National Mall, where visitors can see the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and U.S. Capitol. The Smithsonian Museums, including the National Museum of American History and National Air and Space Muse um, offer free admission and fascinating exhibits. For a guided experience, Signature Tours of DC provides sightseeing trips with expert guides. Another fun option is Old Town Trolley Tours, which lets visitors hop on and off at major attractions.

Baltimore, MD

Start early from Alexandria and drive takes about an hour to reach Baltimore in Maryland. Travelers can also take Amtrak, which runs direct trains from Alexandria Station to Baltimore Penn Station, or opt for a bus service. Once in Baltimore, start at the Inner Harbor, home to attractions like the National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, and Historic Ships in Baltimore. Walk along the waterfront and enjoy the views before heading to Fell’s Point, a historic district with cobblestone streets and waterfront restaurants. Fort McHenry, known for inspiring the national anthem, is another must-visit spot.

Prince William Forest Park

From Alexandria, a day trip to Prince William Forest Park is about 45 minutes drive away, making it an easy escape from the city. Covering over 15,000 acres, it is the largest protected natural area in Northern Virginia, offering hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic spots. The park has 37 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes through forests and streams. Visitors can explore historic cabin camps, originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, adding a historical visit to the trip. The South Fork Quantico Creek runs through the park, providing spots for relaxation.

How to Reach Alexandria

Alexandria is easy to reach thanks to its location just 5 miles south of Washington, D.C., making it accessible by car, train, bus, and air travel. The most convenient airport is Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), located just a few miles from the city center, allowing travelers to reach Alexandria in about 10 minutes by car or taxi. Several domestic and international airlines serve DCA, offering frequent flights. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is located about 45 minutes away.

The city is well-connected by rail, with Amtrak stopping at Alexandria Station near King Street-Old Town Metrorail Station. The Washington Metro serves Alexandria with four stations on the Blue and Yellow lines, allowing for quick travel between the city and Washington, D.C. Metrobus and DASH bus services provide local and regional transportation options. Visitors can also take a water taxi from Alexandria’s waterfront to destinations such as Georgetown, National Harbor, and The Wharf.

Local Transportation

Getting around Alexandria, is easy with its connected transportation system. The city offers several options, including buses, trains, and rideshare, making travel convenient for both residents and visitors. DASH Bus, Alexandria’s local transit system, provides free rides throughout the city, connecting neighborhoods with key destinations like Old Town, King Street Metro Station, and shopping areas. The Washington Metro serves Alexandria with four stations on the Blue and Yellow lines, allowing quick access to Washington, D.C.

Virginia Railway Express (VRE) offers commuter rail service, linking Alexandria to other parts of Northern Virginia. For those traveling in groups, National Charter Bus Alexandria provides private transportation options. Fleet Transportation, LLC offers luxury sedan and limousine services for those looking for a more comfortable ride. Visitors can also take a water taxi from Alexandria’s waterfront to places like Georgetown and The Wharf. Rideshare services, taxis, and rental cars are widely available, ensuring flexible travel options.

---

FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

---

Related Articles