Alexandria Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Alexandria Travel & Tourism, Free Alexandria Travel Guide Online

Alexandria Travel Guide: Discount & Cheap Alexandria Travel & Tourism, Free Alexandria Travel Guide Online

Picture yourself walking along the same cobblestone streets as did George Washington over 200 years ago, appreciating the significance of the numerous historical buildings, or visiting beautiful and stately Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens. This is part of the experience of a visit to Alexandria, Virginia, a truly American city.

Located just minutes from the Nation's capitol, Alexandria is steeped in history and culture and offers a wide variety of things to do. Possibilities range from visiting George Washington's home to dining on the lovely Potomac River. Over one million people visit Alexandria each year to see and experience its history and charm. Daily offerings include dining in Colonial taverns, shopping in the specialty shops of Old Town, taking a walking tour of the City's historic sites and homes or a boat ride along the waterfront. It's all here and just waiting for you.

Founded by a group of Scottish tobacco merchants, the seaport town of Alexandria came into being on a sunny day in July 1749, when a 60-acre tract of land was auctioned off in 1/2 acre lots. As you stroll the brick sidewalks and cobblestone streets of highly gentrified Old Town, the city's official historic district, you can see more than 2,000 buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. You can actually visit the tavern where over two centuries ago, the men who created this nation discussed politics, freedom, and the revolution over tankards of ale. You can even stand in the doorway of the tavern where George Washington reviewed his troops for the last time, walk past Robert E. Lee's boyhood home, and sit in the pews of Christ Church where both men worshipped.

Today, Old Town Alexandria remains filled with reminders of its incredible history and with an array of quaint shops, boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants as well. Indeed, if George Washington and Robert E. Lee should happen to stop by there today (after dodging the anxious motorists jockeying their cars for prized parking spaces), Washington and Lee would still recognize their old hometown.

Alexandria is rich in opportunities for travelers who are visiting Virginia and Washington, D.C. The Colonial charm of 18th and 19th century America comes to life in the restored homes and shops throughout the City. You can feel the power of history surrounding you as you stroll the preserved cobblestone streets and enjoy the historic waterfront, only minutes away from Washington's majestic monuments and attractions.

No matter what time of year you visit, Alexandria is sure to provide you with both entertainment and history. It is a "must see" city.

Alexandria Attractions: Alexandria Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Alexandria Travel & Tourism, Free Alexandria Travel Guide Online

Alexandria Colonial Ghost Tours

703-548-0100

Admission Charged

Experience the excitement of an actual Ghost Tour. Explore Old Town's streets and back alleys.

Tours usually run Wednesday to Sunday nights but call for schedule and reservations

Old Town Horse and Carriage Tours

703-765-8976

Admission Charged

Why not travel around the town as George Washington did.

Call a day in advance for reservations

Potomac Riverboat Company

City dock behind the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St.

703-548-9000

Admission Charged

The "Alexandria Seaport Tour" will give you a fish's-eye view of Old Town, but the "Washington Monuments Tour" is a better choice since it goes upriver for super views of the capital city.

The cruises run from Tuesday to Sunday from June through September, weekends during May and October.

The schedules change seasonally, so check at the dockside booth or call for information and reservations.

Adams Center for the History of Otolaryngology

One Prince St.,

703-836-4444

Admission Charged

Dedicated to the history of treating the ear, nose & throat, this unusual museum includes a display of hearing aids, surgical instruments and rare books.

Open Mon-Fri 9-5.

Alexandria African American Heritage Park

Holland Lane, between Duke St. & Eisenhower Ave.,

703/838-4356

Admission Charged

"Truths that Rise from the Roots Remembered" is the name of the bronze tree sculpture that honors the contributions of African Americans to the growth of Alexandria.

Alexandria Archaeology Museum
105 N. Union St., Third Floor,

703-838-4399

Admission Charged

Step right into the museum's laboratory where archaeologists reconstruct Alexandria's history, fragment by fragment.

Open Tues-Fri 10-3; Sat 10-5; Sun 1-5.

Alexandria Black History Museum

902 Wythe St.,

703-838-4356

Admission Charged

Originally the segregated library for Alexandria's African American residents, the Center documents the local and national history, culture and contributions of Black America.

Open Tues-Sat 10-4.

Alexandria National Cemetery

Wilkes and Payne Streets

Admission Free

One of the 12 sites established and dedicated by President Lincoln in 1862 to serve as military burial grounds. The cemetery contains some 3,500 graves of Civil War soldiers, including U.S. Colored Troops and four men who lost their lives chasing Lincoln's assassin, John Wilkes Booth.

Alexandria Seaport Foundation's Seaport Center

South of Founders Park,

703-/549-7078

Admission Charged

The floating Center houses a community boat-building program. The Foundation offers educational tours aboard the Potomac dory boat; and rowing and sailing programs.

Open Mon-Fri 9-5.

Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site
4301 W. Braddock Rd.,

703-/838-4848

Admission Charged
The museum, patterned after a Union headquarters building, houses a fine Civil War collection and exhibits. The Fort's Northwest Bastion has been completely restored.

Open Tues-Sat 9-5; Sun 12-5. Park: Open daily 9-Sunset.

Friendship Firehouse
107 S. Alfred St.,

703-838-3891
Admission Charged
Established in 1774, the Friendship Fire Company was the first volunteer fire company in Alexandria. The current firehouse was built in 1855 and now houses historic firefighting equipment and exhibit.

Open Fri-Sat 10-4; Sun 1-4.

George Washington Masonic National Memorial
101 Callahan Dr.,

703-/683-2007

Admission for Tour
Patterned after a lighthouse in Alexandria, Egypt, the Memorial displays a magnificent 17-ft. bronze statue of George Washington and an outstanding collection of Washington artifacts.

Open daily 9-5 (last tour 4).

The Lyceum: Alexandria's History Museum
201 S. Washington St.,

703-/838-4994

Admission Charged
The 1839 Greek Revival building serves as the city's history museum featuring prints, documents, photographs, ceramics, silver, furniture & Civil War artifacts.

Open Mon-Sat 10-5; Sun 1-5.

Frank Lloyd Wright's Pope-Leighey House
(Located at Woodlawn) 9000 Richmond Hwy.,

703-780-4000

Admission Charged
Built in 1940 of cypress, brick and glass, the "Usonian" house exhibits many of the significant contributions that Wright made to contemporary architecture.

Open daily Mar-Dec 10-5 (last tour 4:30). Closed Jan & Feb.

Ramsay House Visitors Center
221 King St.,

703-/838-4200

Admission Free
Named for William Ramsay, Scottish merchant and city founder. Stop by for sightseeing brochures, maps, etc.

Open daily 9-5. I (Handicap assistance is available at the lower King St. entrance).

River Farm
(American Horticultural Society)
7931 E. Boulevard Dr.,

703-/768-5700

Admission Charged
Originally part of the estate of George Washington, the farm features 25 acres of lawns, gardens, meadows and woods on the Potomac River.

Open Mon-Fri 8:30-5; Apr-Oct: Sat 9-1.

Carlyle House Historic Park
121 N. Fairfax St.,

703-/549-2997

Admission Charged
A Georgian Palladian manor house built in 1752 by Scottish merchant and city founder John Carlyle. Here, five royal governors and General Braddock met to discuss funding of the French and Indian War.

Open Tues-Sat 10-4:30; Sun 12-4:30 (tours on the hour and half hour, last tour 4:30; Nov-Mar last tour 4).

Christ Church
118 N. Washington St.,

703-/549-1450

Admission Free, Contributions accepted
This beautiful English country-style church was built between 1767-1773 and was attended by George Washington & Robert E. Lee.

Open Mon-Sat 9-5; Sun 9-4.

Gadsby's Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal St.,

703-/838-4242

Admission Charged
Consists of two buildings, the 1785 Georgian tavern and the 1792 City Hotel. The Tavern has been authentically restored to its 18th-century appearance. Notable guests included George Washington & Thomas Jefferson.

Call for seasonal hours.

George Washington's Gristmill
Route 235, three miles from Mount Vernon Estate,

703-780-2000

Admission Charged
See the entire process of how wheat was produced in the 18th century at this authentic water-powered mill, and learn how Washington was one of the most innovative farmers of his time. Open daily Apr-Oct 10-5.

Gunston Hall Plantation
10709 Gunston Rd., Mason Neck, VA,

703-/550-9220

Admission Charged
The 1755 Georgian-style mansion was the home of George Mason, author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights and a framer of the Constitution.

Open daily 9:30-5. Closed major holidays.

Lee-Fendall House
614 Oronoco St.,

703-548-1789

Admission Charged
From 1785-1903, the house served as the home to 37 members of the Lee family. John L. Lewis, a powerful and controversial labor leader, lived in the house from 1937-1969. Guided by its 1852 inventory, the house is interpreted as a Lee home of the 1850-1870 period.

Open Tues-Sat 10-4; Sun 1-4 (tours on the hour; last tour 3)

Mount Vernon: George Washington's Estate & Gardens
3200 George Washington Memorial Pkwy.,

703-780-2000
Admission Charged

The beautiful estate of the nation's first president includes the mansion, outbuildings, a Pioneer Farmer site and gardens.

Open daily, call for hours of operation.

Old Presbyterian Meeting House
321 S. Fairfax St.,

703-549-6670

Admission Free
Built in 1774, the church was the site of memorial services for George Washington. A memorial to an unknown soldier of the American Revolution can be visited in the churchyard.

Open Mon-Fri 9-4.

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
105-107 S. Fairfax St.,

703-836-3713

Admission Charged
Opened in 1792 by young Quaker pharmacist Edward Stabler, the family business operated for 141 years. Over 8,000 early medical care items are still in place. Patrons included George & Martha Washington and Robert E. Lee.

Open Mon-Sat 10-4; Sun 1-5.

Woodlawn
9000 Richmond Hwy.,

703-/780-4000

Admission Charged
George Washington gave the estate to his adopted granddaughter and his nephew as a wedding gift. Dr. William Thornton, architect of the U.S. Capitol, was then commissioned to design the Georgian mansion.

Open daily Mar-Dec 10-5 (last tour 4:30). Closed Jan & Feb.

Arlington House

703-557-0613

Admission Free

Commanding a gorgeous view of Washington, D.C., from atop the ridge above the Kennedy graves, the Greek Revival Arlington House was built by George Washington Parke Custis, grandson of Martha Washington by her first marriage, after his daughter married a young Virginian named Robert E. Lee. The Lees had lived in the mansion for 30 years when General Lee received word in April 1861 of the dissolution of the Union and Virginia's secession. Restored to its pre-Civil War appearance and furnished with original pieces (as much as possible) and replicas, it has served as a memorial to Robert E. Lee since 1955, when its official name was changed to "Custis-Lee Mansion." A small Robert E. Lee Museum adjoins. There's a self-guided tour, with volunteers on hand to give an introductory talk, hand out brochures, and answer questions.

The mansion is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm; the museum from 8am to 4:30pm. Both are closed Christmas and New Year's Day.

Tomb of the Unknowns

Beyond the mansion, America's most distinguished honor guard slowly marches before the Tomb of the Unknowns, a tribute to all members of the armed forces who have given their lives for their country in war. The 50-ton white-marble tomb rests above the remains of unidentified combatants slain during World War I. Unknowns from World War II and the Korean War are in the crypts on the plaza in front of it. There's also a crypt for an unknown killed in the Vietnam War, but modern forensic science is so sophisticated that the serviceman originally buried there with much ceremony was later identified as a U.S. Air Force pilot. His body was moved to another grave. Plan your visit to coincide with the changing of the guard ceremony -- an impressive ritual of rifle maneuvers, heel clicking, and military salutes. It takes place daily every half-hour April through September, every hour on the hour the rest of the year.

Memorial Amphitheater

Adjoining the Tomb is the Greek Revival outdoor Memorial Amphitheater, used for holiday services, particularly on Memorial Day when the sitting president or vice president attends.

U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial

703-289-2500

On the northern periphery of Arlington National Cemetery, just off Va. 110 about 1 1/2 miles north of the Kennedy graves, stands the famous U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, better known as the Iwo Jima Memorial. The statue of Marines raising the American flag over Iwo Jima in February 1945 symbolizes the nation's esteem for the honored dead of the U.S. Marine Corps.

Netherlands Carillon

703-607-8052

Va. 110 at Memorial Circle

Admission Free

Adjacent to the Iwo Jima statue is the Netherlands Carillon, a gift from the people of Holland, with 50 bells, each carrying an emblem signifying a segment of Dutch society. Visitors are permitted into the tower after the carillonneur performs, to enjoy spectacular views of Washington.

Open Apr-Sept daily 8am-7pm; Oct-Mar daily 8am-5pm.

International Spy Museum
800 F St., NW, Washington, D.C
202-EYE-SPY-U

Admission Charged

Explore the secret history of history and discover the fascinating true stories of spies from Biblical times through today. Learn their true motivations uncover their tradecraft and discover their fates through film, interactive displays and state-of-the-art exhibits.

Open Apr-Oct 10-8; Nov-Mar 10-6

Marian Koshland Science Museum
Sixth & E Streets, NW, Washington, D.C.

202-334-1201
Admission Charged

State-of-the-art exhibits bring to life studies conducted by the National Academies. Includes a look at climate change related to global warming and DNA sequencing in criminal forensics.

Open daily 10-6 except Tuesday.

Alexandria Events: Alexandria Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Alexandria Travel & Tourism, Free Alexandria Travel Guide Online

Arts and Entertainment

The Alexandria Ballet
703-548-0035

Admission Charged
Known for its dance school and special performance for young audiences. The 45-minute version of "The Nutcracker" is a community favorite.

Call for schedule

Alexandria Citizen Band Concerts
Market Square, 301 King St.,

703-883-4686

Admission Free
Fridays, June – August, 7:30 p.m.

Alexandria Symphony Orchestra
703-845-8005
Admission Charged
For the past decade, Maestro Kim Allen Kluge's charismatic virtuosity has guided the ASO through critically-acclaimed performances full of passion, power and emotion.

Call for schedule

Lunch Bunch Concerts
Market Square, 301 King St.,

703-883-4686

Admission Free
Every Wednesday, June - August at 12:15 p.m.

Montgomery Park Concerts
Montgomery Park (Montgomery & Royal sts.),

703-883-4686

Admission Free
Wednesdays. June – July, 7:30 p.m., grass seating.

Music At Twilight Concerts
Fort Ward Park amphitheater,

4301 W. Braddock Rd.,

703-/883-4686

Admission Free

A variety of musical performances
Thursdays, June - August. A. Time varies: 7:00 p.m. or 7:30 p.m., call for details

Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center
On the Northern Virginia Community College campus at 3001 N. Beauregard St.

703-/845-6156

Admission Charged
Brand-new, 1000-seat hall with wonderful acoustics is year-round site for performances, including the acclaimed Alexandria Symphony Orchestra.

Call for schedule

The Birchmere
3701 Mt. Vernon Ave.,

703-549-7500

Admission charged
Featuring the biggest names in country, folk and other musical varieties.

Call for schedule and list of performances

Theater

Old Town Theater
815 1/2 King St.,

703-683-8888

Admission Charged
Historic theatre that will feature live entertainment and movies for the family and community.

Call for performance times

West End Dinner Theatre
4615 Duke Street,

703-/370-2500
Admission Charged

Offers fine dining and the best of Broadway on the largest dinner theatre stage in the area.

Call for list of performances and times

Parks and Recreation

Mount Vernon Forest Trail
703-780-2000

Admission Free
This nature walk through George Washington's wilderness leads past mature Oak and Hickory trees, past Holly and Laurel shrubs and features attractions such as Washington's cobble quarry and a wooden footbridge over a 100-foot wide ravine. Interpretive signs throughout the trail list fascinating facts about the woods and wildlife.

Call for hours of operation.

Mount Vernon Trail

Ramsay House Visitors Center, 221 King St.

Admission Free

With the river as your companion, walk, bike, or jog the 18.5-mile trail from George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens to Theodore Roosevelt Island. Along the way enjoy a view of the Potomac at Riverside Park, take a side trip to the Dyke Marsh wildlife habitat or visit Jones Point Park, which features a 19th-century lighthouse. Beyond Alexandria, you can view the Washington skyline from Gravelly Point and the Navy-Marine Memorial depicting gulls in flight over a wave.

Potomac Heritage Trail

Pick up a brochure at the Ramsay House Visitors Center, 221 King St.

Admission Free
Explore Northern Virginia's heritage by following the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. The trail includes historic sites such as Mount Vernon, Civil War sites, waterways, scenic vistas and more.

Virginia Civil War Trails

Stop by the Ramsay House Visitors Center, 221 King St., for a free brochure.
The Virginia Civil War Trails is a state-wide system of over 200 authentic Civil War sites divided into five regions, and linked by a combination of driving, biking and walking trails. Alexandria is the first city to become an official site and is part of the Northern Virginia Trail.

Cameron Run Regional Park
4001 Eisenhower Ave.,

703-960-0767

Family fun! This park offers something for everyone - waterslide, wave pool, lap pool, batting cages and miniature golf.

Call for hours and dates of operation as they vary per venue and season.

Events

January

The Holidays at Mount Vernon

703-780-2000

George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
The Washington's' seasonal entertaining is authentically interpreted daily, including Christmas Day and New Year's Day; the rarely seen third floor is open, and ginger cookies and hot cider are served around the bonfire near a replica of a Valley Forge military encampment.

9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Call for exact dates

Lee Birthday Celebration

703-548-1789

Lee-Fendall House Museum, 614 Oronoco
Celebrate the birthdays of Revolutionary War hero Henry "Light Horse Harry" Lee and his son, Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee. Meet the guests of honor, tour the home and enjoy live period music and refreshments.

2-4 p.m.

Call for exact dates

February

George Washington Birthday Celebration

703-991-4474

A city-wide celebration for Alexandria's favorite son.

Call for exact date and schedule

Ceremony Honoring the Unknown Soldier of the Revolution

703-549-6670

Presbyterian Meeting House, 321 S. Fairfax St. 11 a.m.

Admission Free
Ceremony held at the grave of the Unknown Soldier of the Revolutionary War.

Call for exact date and schedule

George Washington's Farewell Address

703-991-4474

201 South Washington Street

Admission Free
A reenactment that has become an Alexandria tradition.

11 a.m. and 12 noon

Call for exact dates

George Washington Birthday Parade

703-991-4474

Admission Free

The largest parade honoring the first president and Alexandria's hometown hero features marching bands, floats, military and reenactment units, Masonic groups, equestrian entries, antique cars, and of course, George and Martha Washington throughout Old Town Alexandria.

1 p.m.

Call for exact dates

March

Annual Needlework Exhibition

703-780-4000

Woodlawn Plantation, 9000 Richmond Hwy., Mount Vernon

Admission Charged
The largest and most prestigious needlework exhibit in the country. View amateur and professional stitchery at the plantation George Washington gave to his granddaughter, Eleanor "Nelly" Custis Lewis.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily.

Call for exact dates

Annual Antiques in Alexandria

703-548-7469

Episcopal High School, Flippin Field House, 3901 W. Braddock Rd.

Admission Charged

Features 60 dealers from around the country and includes early American furniture

11 a.m.-7 p.m. Thu.-Sat.; 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Call for exact dates
.

St. Patrick's Day Celebration and Parade

703/ 237-2199

The parade starts at 12:30 p.m. at King and West sts and proceeds east on King to N. Fairfax.

Admission Free

Join the festivities throughout Old Town, including the Fun Dog Show at 10:30 a.m. at Market Square, and Classic Car Competition, also at 10:30 a.m. on N. Royal and Pitt streets.

April

Family Easter Egg Hunt

703-548-1789

Garden of the historic Lee-Fendall House, 614 Oronoco Street.

Admission Charge for children, adults free
Children of all ages invited to look for colorful eggs in the garden of the historic Lee-Fendall House, 614 Oronoco St.

Hunt begins promptly at 1 p.m. (Canceled in case of inclement weather.)

Call for exact date

Annual Historic Garden Tour of Alexandria

703-549-2289
This tour features seven privately-owned Old Town homes and gardens, one historic church and four historic properties.

10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Call for exact date

Mount Vernon's Annual Gardening Days

703-780-2000

Admission Free
The estate's annual garden sale, including plants grown from historic cuttings, plus this is the only time the Orangerie, Washington's greenhouse, is open to the public.

Call for exact dates and hours

Annual Old Town Arts & Crafts Fair

703-836-2176

301 King St.

Admission Free

More than 70 crafters display wares including painted clothing, stained glass, watercolors, jewelry, pottery and more at Market Square.

Open 1-6 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. with live music from 1 to 4.

Call for exact dates

May

Lantern Tours

703-838-4242

Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St.

Admission Charged

These popular candlelight tours, offered Friday nights, focus on tavern life in the 18th century.

Call for exact dates and hours

Annual Memorial Day Jazz Festival

703-883-4686

Fort Ward Park, 4301 W. Braddock Rd

Admission Free

Performers include the Army Blues Jazz Ensemble, Yvonne Johnson, Doc Dikeman Big Band, Al Williams and the Village Jazz Band.

1-8 p.m.

Call for exact date

June

Civil War Camp Day

703-838-4848

Ward Museum & Historic Site, 4301 W. Braddock Road

Admission Charged
Living history program featuring Union and Confederate reenactors and civilian interpreters. This late-war event features camp scenes, children's games, period music, vignettes, firing demos and tours of the fort.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Call for exact date

Annual Alexandria Red Cross Waterfront

703-549-8300

Oronoco Bay Park, Union and Madison Streets

Admission Charged

Jazz, rock & roll and oldies, visiting tall ships, living history exhibits, children's events, arts & crafts, and concession stands

6-11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday
Call for exact date

June-October 2005

Doggie Happy Hour

703-549-6080

480 King St.

Admission Free
Every Tuesday and Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m., meet two- and four-legged friends in the courtyard of the Holiday Inn. Select eats, treats and drinks for all.

Call for exact dates

July

USA & Alexandria Birthday Celebration

703-883-4686

Bay Park, Union and Madison Streets

Admission Free
Celebration starts at 4 p.m. with a festival saluting Alexandria's ethnic diversity at 4 p.m. The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra presents 'Swinging on the Waterfront,' a salute to Big Bands with swing dancers at 9 p.m. Grand finale with "1812 Overture" and fireworks at 10 p.m.

Call for exact date

Annual Virginia Scottish Games

703-912-1943

Episcopal High School, 3901 W. Braddock Rd

Admission Charged
Alexandria celebrates its rich Scottish heritage with one of the nation's largest exhibitions of Scottish culture. See the Retreat Parade featuring bagpipe bands, Highland dancing with hundreds of competitors, a British antique auto show, dog events, clan tents, concession stands and the kirkin o' the tartans church service

Call for exact date and times

August

Tavern Day at Gadsby's Tavern Museum

703-838-4242

Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St.

Admission Free

A day of tavern life with displays, activities and programs.

Noon-4:30 p.m.

Call for exact date

Carlyle Housewarming

703-549-2997

Carlyle House Museum and Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax St.

Admission Free

Music, refreshments and costumed interpreters bring Carlyle House alive, recalling when John Carlyle and his bride Sarah Fairfax moved into their newly built mansion in 1753.

Noon-4:30 p.m. August 1-15, 2004
Call for exact date

Annual Friendship Firehouse Festival

703-838-4994

107 S. Alfred St.

Admission Free

See antique fire-fighting equipment, crafts, displays and live music with special treats for children.

Call for exact dates and hours

September

Alexandria Festival of the Arts

703-838-5005

King Street, "Old Town" Historic District.

Admission Free
Join more than 150 local and nationally known artists for this two day, outdoor art festival featuring paintings, sculpture, jewelry, glassware, photography and more!

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Call for exact dates

Annual Tour of Historic Alexandria Homes

703-683-5544

Old Town

Admission Charged

Tour some of the city's most beautifully restored and decorated homes.

10a.m.-3 p.m.
Call for exact dates

18th-Century Fair at Mount Vernon

703-780-2000

Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens

Admission Free

Several juried artisans demonstrate their crafts and sell their wares, with Colonial music, a variety of entertainment, including fire-eaters and grave robbers, and hearty food. George Washington's 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Call for exact dates

October

Art on the Avenue

703-683-3100

Mount Vernon Avenue

Admission Free

Multicultural arts festival celebrating diversity through the arts in the Potomac West community. Artists and artisans of all kinds discuss their work and demonstrate. Also features tastings from restaurants and musical performances.

10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Call for exact dates

Alexandria Arts Safari

703-838-4565

Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St

Admission Free
Art demonstrations, lots of hand-on activities for children and adults as well as architectural and archeological tours. This family event celebrates the diversity and creativity in Alexandria
Call for exact dates and hours

Fall Harvest Family Days

703-780-2000

George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens

Admission Charged
Harvest celebration with dancing, blacksmithing, wagon rides, bake sale and free pumpkin for children under age 11.

9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Call for exact dates

Historic Hauntings – "Nights of Lost Souls"

703-838-4242

Admission Charged

The historic sites around Alexandria's Market Square are haunted! From 7-10 p.m. brave these sites, if you dare.

Call for exact dates

November

Historic Alexandria Antiques Show and Sale

703-549-5811

Holiday Inn & Suites, 625 First St.

Admission Charged

Features dealers from around the country with a preview party.

Noon-8 p.m. Fri. and Sat.; noon-5.p.m. Sun

Call for exact dates

Mount Vernon By Candlelight

703-780-2000

George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens.

Admission Charged
Learn about the Washington's Christmas traditions, meet historic characters and tour the home by candlelight, including the rarely seen third floor.

5-9 pm.

Call for exact dates

December

Holidays at Mount Vernon

703-780-2000

Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens

Admission Charged
The Washington's' seasonal entertaining is authentically interpreted daily, including Christmas Day and New Year's Day; the rarely-seen third floor is open, and ginger cookies and hot cider are served around the bonfire near a replica of a Valley Forge military encampment. George.

9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Call for exact dates

Plantation Christmas and Family Holiday Buffet

703-550-9220

Gunston Hall Plantation, 10709 Gunston Road, Lorton.

Admission Charged
Celebrate the season with a tour of the candle-lit house, cider by the glowing fire, open-hearth cooking demonstrations, and carriage rides. Buffet of Yuletide fare also available.

6-10 p.m.

Call for exact dates

Annual Campagna Center's Scottish Christmas Walk Parade

703-549-0111

Old Town Alexandria

Admission Charged
Parade honors Alexandria's Scottish heritage with more than 100 Scottish clans dressed in tartans and playing bagpipes, living history reenactment units, dog clubs and antique cars. Other Christmas Walk activities include sale of greens and heather, musical performances, children's events

Call for exact dates

Annual Campagna Center's Designer Tour of Homes

703-549-0111

Old Town Alexandria.

Admission Charged

Features six charming, architecturally interesting homes decorated for the holidays.

11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Call for exact dates

Annual Holiday Parade of Boats

703-838-5005

Alexandria Marina at the foot of Cameron St., behind the Torpedo Factory 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Admission Free

Alexandria's harbor lights up when more than 50 brightly lit sailing and powered leisure boats cruise along the Potomac River at the City's historic waterfront.

Festivities begin at 3:00 p.m.

Call for exact dates

Historic Alexandria Candlelight Tours

703/838-4994.

Admission Charged

Enjoy the warmth and beauty of the holiday season at five festively decorated historic sites in Old Town Alexandria. Tours are self-guided and highlight the social, musical and sentimental aspects of the holidays in 18th and 19th century Alexandria. Light refreshments served; trolley available between sites. Sunday is family day!

Call for exact dates and hours

Christmas in Camp Open House

703-838-4848

Fort Ward Museum, 4301 W. Braddock Road

Admission Charged
Learn how the holiday was observed during the Civil War with living history interpreters, period music and light refreshments. Victorian decorating ideas demonstrated at 11 a.m.

1 - 4 p.m.

Call for exact dates

First Night Alexandria

703-838-5005

King and Washington streets and throughout Old Town

Admission Charged
Non-alcoholic, family-oriented New Year's celebration with music, performing arts and fireworks at midnight.

6 p.m.- midnight

Call for exact date

Alexandria Facts: Alexandria Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Alexandria Travel & Tourism, Free Alexandria Travel Guide Online

Population: 128,283

Elevation: 30 feet above sea level

Location: Location:Alexandria is located in Northern Virginia south across the Potomac River from Washington D.C.

Time Zone: Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (when it's noon in Alexandria, it is 11:00am in Chicago and 9:00am in Los Angeles). Alexandria observes Daylight Saving Time from April-October.

Weather:

Climate:

When to Go

Summer is the most popular time of year when tourists visit nearby Washington DC. With high temperatures in the mid to high 80's in June, July and August and evenings in the 60's, it's the perfect time to experience the city and its surrounding sites. Spring is the time for a visual extravaganza with cherry blossoms in bloom and all that nature has in store for the season. Temperatures average in the mid-50s in April and in the mid-60's in May. Fall brings a whole new look to the city. With the average temperatures averaging right at 70, in September, the 50's in October, and the 40's in November, visitors get to experience a wide array of colors as the leaves turn in preparation for winter. From December through March a visitor may experience the sight of snow falling. The coldest month is January with an average temperature of 34 degrees and highs in the mid-40's and lows averaging 25. No matter when your travel plans for Alexandria, this wonderful, historic city is never too cold or too hot to enjoy its many sites.

How to Get There

By Plane

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is 2 miles north of Alexandria via the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Washington's Metrorail provides easy transport to Alexandria via its Blue and Yellow lines.

SuperShuttle operates frequent van service daily from the airport to many locations. Hours are 6am to 10pm.

By Car

Going south from Washington, cross the 14th Street Bridge (I-395) and go south on the scenic George Washington Memorial Parkway, which becomes Washington Street, Alexandria's main north-south thoroughfare. A left turn on King Street will take you into the heart of Old Town. I-95 crosses the Potomac River at Alexandria; take Exit 177 (U.S. 1) and go north into Old Town..

By Train

The Amtrak station is at 110 Callahan Dr., at King Street.

By Washington Metrorail

From Arlington or Washington, take the Blue or Yellow lines to the King Street station (it's across the tracks from Amtrak's Alexandria station). Metrorail operates Monday to Thursday from 5:30am to midnight, Friday 5:30am to 2am, Saturday 8am to 3am, and Sunday 8am to midnight.

City Layout

Old Town Alexandria is an easy city to get around as it is laid out in a simple grid. The original town grew north-south along the Potomac River, but most of what you will want to see and do today is on, or a few blocks off, King Street, the main east-west drag, between the waterfront and the King Street Metrorail station.

Bus Transportation

From a visitor's standpoint, Alexandria's bus system, known as DASH, is primarily useful for getting from the King Street Metro station to the Ramsay House Visitor Center (take buses numbered AT-2 and AT-5). A free weekend shuttle runs along King Street on weekends. DASH provides service from 5:30am to 11pm weekdays, from 7am to 10pm on weekends. There's no service New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Car Rental/Taxi

All the major car-rental firms are based at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Taxi and limousine service is available as well.

National Holidays

New Year's Day, January 1

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the third Monday in January

President' Day, the third Monday in February

Memorial Day, the last Monday in May

Independence Day, July 4

Labor Day, the first Monday in September

Thanksgiving Day, the fourth Thursday in November

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, December 24 and 25

New Year's Eve, December 31

Alexandria Kids Activities: Alexandria Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Alexandria Travel & Tourism, Free Alexandria Travel Guide Online

Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union St.,

703-838-4565

Admission Charged
Constructed in 1918 for the manufacturing of torpedoes, the factory now features 84 working artists' studios, 6 galleries, the Art League School and Archaeology Museum.

Open daily 10-5

Old Town Theater
815 1/2 King St.,

703-683-8888

Admission Charged
Historic theatre that will feature live entertainment and movies for the family. Call for performance times

Alexandria Heritage Trail

703-838-4399

Admission Free
Explore the archaeology and history of this unique 22-mile urban trail. Visit more than 40 museums and historic parks open to the public to learn the heritage of Native Americans, Colonists, African Americans, Civil War civilians and soldiers, and more.

Call for hours of operation

Mount Vernon Trail

Ramsay House Visitors Center, 221 King St.

Admission Free

With the river as your companion, walk, bike, or jog the 18.5-mile trail from George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens to Theodore Roosevelt Island. Along the way enjoy a view of the Potomac at Riverside Park, take a side trip to the Dyke Marsh wildlife habitat or visit Jones Point Park, which features a 19th-century lighthouse. Beyond Alexandria, you can view the Washington skyline from Gravelly Point and the Navy-Marine Memorial depicting gulls in flight over a wave.

Cameron Run Regional Park
4001 Eisenhower Ave.,

703-960-0767

Family fun! This park offers something for everyone - waterslide, wave pool, lap pool, batting cages and miniature golf.

Call for hours and dates of operation as they vary per venue and season.

George Washington's Gristmill
Route 235, three miles from Mount Vernon Estate,

703-780-2000

Admission Charged
See the entire process of how wheat was produced in the 18th century at this authentic water-powered mill, and learn how Washington was one of the most innovative farmers of his time. Open daily Apr-Oct 10-5.

Mount Vernon: George Washington's Estate & Gardens
3200 George Washington Memorial Pkwy.,

703-780-2000
Admission Charged

The beautiful estate of the nation's first president includes the mansion, outbuildings, a Pioneer Farmer site and gardens.

Open daily, call for hours of operation.

Potomac Riverboat Company

City dock behind the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St.

703-548-9000

Admission Charged

The "Alexandria Seaport Tour" will give you a fish's-eye view of Old Town, but the "Washington Monuments Tour" is a better choice since it goes upriver for super views of the capital city.

The cruises run from Tuesday to Sunday from June through September, weekends during May and October.

The schedules change seasonally, so check at the dockside booth or call for information and reservations.

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