Location: Alexandria
Top Things to do in Alexandria
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10 Things to Do in Alexandria That You Shouldn't Miss
A short Metro ride from Washington DC, Alexandria, Virginia is the perfect escape from the fast-paced capital. First settled in 1695, the city retains its colonial spirit, with cobblestone streets and historic buildings in the Old Town, Gadsby's Tavern, a restaurant serving food since 1770, and centers of learning like the Black History Museum. For a more contemporary side of Alexandria, wander the streets of the stylish Del Ray neighborhood, where local artists operate boutiques and studios.
Restaurants in Alexandria
1. Tomb of the Unknowns
Overall Ratings
5 based on 3 reviews
Guarded around the clock by the Army's 3rd infantry, this memorial in Arlington National Cemetery honors unidentified American soldiers from the two World Wars and the Korean War.
Reviewed By Heather G - Anderson, Indiana
Great experience with teenagers. Arrived and waited forty-five minutes for the next changing of the guards and it was worth the wait.
2. Harborfront Area
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1 reviews
Perched on the historic Potomac River, National Harbor is a unique, all-in-one destination and all-American tradition, offering unrivaled shopping, dining and attractions and a roster of year-round, family-friendly events. Featuring expansive views from the riverbank-and from 180 feet up on The Capital Wheel, the waterfront's newest iconic draw-National Harbor combines an approachable, resort-like personality with a singular, dynamic experience for local residents and visitors alike. Attractions include: The Capital Wheel The Awakening The Carousel Tanger Outlets Waterfront Dining Boat Cruises & Tours Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals Free Events & Entertainment
Reviewed By Tom M
I love the Harborfront. Walk close to the water, browse the shops and eat at one of many amazing locals with a variety of choices. I'm here in March, so I brought a coat and had an amazing time just strolling along and enjoying the atmosphere.
3. Huntley Meadows Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 141 reviews
Reviewed By johnoO3567AS - Springfield, United States
The walkway through the wetlands provides the opportunity to see a good sampling of Virginia's most beautiful wildlife. In a single hour you can see otter, beaver, kingfishers, pileated woodpeckers, Cooper's hawks, deer, ducks, geese, redwing blackbirds, hummingbirds and lots of other wildlife. In the Summer, bring some DEET because you might run into some biting flies on the woodland paths on the way to the walkways.
4. Old Town
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Quaint old seaport section of Alexandria on the National Register of Historic Places.
Reviewed By sullific - new haven, ct
I was in the area for only a couple of days, visiting a friend and staying at the L'Orien Hotel in Old Town. The first day there, we strolled to the waterfront down King Street (also availed ourselves of the free King Street Trolley). If I had more time I would have seen more, or if I lived in the area I could see that I would probably find Old Town more of a destination - but having only a couple of days and trying to squeeze in, say, a Smithsonian museum or two - Old Town is down on the list of priorities.
As far as history, there are historical sites there, such as an old apothecary museum, but I didn't have time to see them. As far as shopping - I am a consummate expert - and I was disappointed. Most of the numerous shops were either chain stores - albeit nicer ones (Anthro, White House, LouLou, etc.) or something more for locals, like florists and furniture. Of all the shops on the street I found only one to buy something in (it too was more furniture than anything, but they had some lovely midcentury Japanese wooden animals in the window). There is the Torpedo Art Center (reviewed under TAC).
The waterfront is probably the high point, with some nice vantage points over the Potomac. We ate there, then spent quite a bit of time in the Torpedo Art Center (which does have more unique wares for purchase, but even it fades out into mostly paintings).
We ate in Old Town on a few occasions. There are plenty of restaurants, most as you get closer to the waterfront. The area nearest the King Street subway is rather dicey at night or early morning - nor is there anything much there. It also appeared to be an area that was both hopping (bars and restaurants) and deserted (shops) at night.
So yes, I wish I had more time to explore the historical venues and maybe go down a few side streets In Search Of a more unique shopping experience. Perhaps next time.
5. The Awakening Sculpture
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 463 reviews
Reviewed By Phxhandz - Gloucester, Virginia
My husband and I stayed near the National Harbor and walked to this sculpture. I remember seeing this when I was visiting DC when I was a teenager, but it was located in a different area. since it was raining, we had the entire place to ourselves. It was interesting to see again.
6. Alexandria's Christ Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 334 reviews
Reviewed By Adam N - Jacksonville, Florida
This is the church that two of the greatest generals of two great nations attended. You can see the family pew of both the Washingtons and the Lees (Update: They took away the family plaque marking their pews). Beautiful Colonial Construction and history with every step.
7. National Harbor
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 136 reviews
Reviewed By Keemman - Boston, Massachusetts
It’s a great location with bunch of nice options and restaurants, playground for kids, parking for EV cars but I have noticed that non EV cars will park there and block these valuable spots. Basically no enforcements or rules in this area. Other than that. It is a nice spot to hang around and spend a nice day to enjoy the sunset.
8. Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 214 reviews
The Apothecary served local customers, including the Washingtons and Robert E. Lee, between 1792 and 1933. The shop was transformed into a museum shortly after its closing and visitors can still view the original ingredients, products, and documents left behind by this 141-year-old family business.
Reviewed By Gary V - Pleasant Valley, New York
Very interested in the authenticity of this tour. We were given the tour by Ann who was very informative and pleasantly helpful. The artifacts were very good and the displays were spot on for the periods of it's first existence. I gave a fine view of the early apothecary's toolsand supplies.
9. The Capital Wheel
Overall Ratings
4 based on 426 reviews
Located just 20 minutes from the National Mall, The Capital Wheel offers amazing views of the Nation's Capital 180 feet above the Potomac River, all from the inside of your fully enclosed, climate controlled gondola.
Reviewed By Kasey H - Charlottesville, Virginia
We rode the Capital Wheel for the first time Saturday evening, and timed it just right so we could enjoy the beautiful sunset! It was quite cold and windy out, but you wouldn't have known inside the "pod", where it was a balmy 72 degrees. We used a Groupon/LivingSocial voucher, which made it a great deal at just about $10 a person. Would recommend if you're in the area! :)
10. Old Town Waterfront
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By Susie S
Bring your dog on a leash and enjoy the sunshine, grassy areas, gorgeous waterfront views of the Potomac River. Take a water taxi from here across the river to the ferris wheel and casino area you can see from the water front. Lots of restaurants, yogurt shops, street musicians and performers, walk through the art filled torpedo factory. Parking is free on Saturday morning so you can pop over to the farmers market just 2 blocks west on King Street.
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