Location: Old Town
Top Things to do in Old Town
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5 Specialty Museums in Old Town 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. Tall Ship Providence
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 19 reviews
The tall ship Providence provides a living link to our rich maritime, naval, and Revolutionary history. Our Providence is a reproduction of the first ship authorized to serve in the Continental Navy and John Paul Jones’ first American command. Come aboard to meet John Paul Jones, and get a taste of what life was like aboard an eighteenth-century sloop. Enjoy a guided tour, take a public cruise up the Potomac, or book your private charter.
Reviewed By MarcW38
A replica of an 18th century tall ship, The Providence gives the guest a glimpse of life on board a sailing ship when the wind was the only propulsion. Today, a very quiet Detroit diesel moves you along at a stately 4 knots. The craft beer tasting cruise included nice tortilla chips with salsa and guacamole...totally delicious. The female Captain, Sam, was a delight. My wife and I had a wonderful time.
2. Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 280 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 433marydiannem - Alexandria, United States
The Apothecary Museum in Alexandria is like walking into a time capsule. It was family owned from Washington’s day, made it thru the Civil War as Alexandria was a Union hospital center, and thrived until the Great Depression. Alexandrians saved much of the equipment, bottles, pill rollers etc. Though this is a business, like the other 2 House museums in Alexandria ( Carlyle house and Lee-Fendall house), it is all original and well worth the visitors effort.
3. Carlyle House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 316 reviews
A Georgian mansion built in 1753 by merchant and City founder John Carlyle. Five governors and General Braddock met here to discuss funding the French and Indian War. This historic meeting influenced the call for American independence in the 1770s, and sparked the concept of taxation without representation. Daily tours, youth programs, special events, exhibits, and lectures offer visitors a chance to experience eighteenth century life. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.; Sunday: Noon-4 p.m. (tours on the hour, last tour at 4 p.m.). Call ahead to schedule a tour!
Reviewed By coombsfamily5
We visited on a cold rainy day in January and we were so glad we did, from the informative tour to the beautifully restored house, it was a true delight. The curator was very kind to us and provided additional info and additional information about other places we could visit. There is a very steep staircase from the room where the tour begins up to the second floor.
4. Freedom House Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 28 reviews
Reviewed By LisandroVoyager - Washington DC, United States
The posted info is clear and well written, and attractively displayed. There is a video and books for sale in the entrance hall. It's a good first stop to walk along a circuit of several historic attractions in Old Town Alexandria. They give a map out to orient visitors to the city. Open only Friday and Saturday afternoons. They may let groups in at other times by prior arrangement. Especially important stop for anyone wishing to understand the reasons for the Domestic Slave Trade pattern of the 19th century linking Virginia and Louisiana and the Deep South.
