Location: Alexandria
Top Things to do in Alexandria
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Things to do in Alexandria, Virginia (VA): The Best Nature & Parks
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. Dora Kelly Nature Park
2. River Farm
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 49 reviews
River Farm is the headquarters of the American Horticultural Society. Situated on 25 landscaped acres overlooking the Potomac river, it is an idyllic escape within the Washington, D.C. area. Enjoy walking in our gardens and four-acre Meadow. Bring kids to enjoy the Children's Garden. We are open year-round Monday-Friday 9 am - 5 pm. From April through September we are also open Saturday from 9 am - 1 pm.
Reviewed By avril-1974 - Arlington, United States
I visited River Farm recently after a friend told me about their beautiful gardens. Well she wasn’t kidding. It is charming and delightful - a gardener’s paradise. It’s just off of the GW Parkway on your way to Mount Vernon. They are rolling hills, meticulous gardens and a view of the Potomac River. Just lovely.
3. Huntley Meadows Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 231 reviews
Reviewed By SherlockHolmesRun - Falls Church, United States
This is my favorite park in the area and has been since I was a child. But this review is specifically for those visiting during the COVID-19 pandemic: I found it harder to socially distance here than at other local parks. Though the boardwalk is pretty wide, this isn't really a place to just keep a steady walking pace. You'll want to stop and look for wildlife or watch birds or set up to take photos. While I was there, the park was packed with people and it was hard to maintain a safe distance from others. Avoid peak times and weekends if you can. When we went (10:30 AM on a Sunday), the entire parking lot was full and we had to park on the road-already a bad sign. That said, it's so popular for a reason. This is a GORGEOUS wetland environment with all kinds of birds, amphibians, turtles, and more! It's such an astonishing sight so close to DC. From the wide open views of the wetlands to the beautifully constructed boardwalks and observation tower to the stunning forests and informative signs, it's like the ideal park! Another note for visitors: there isn't much of a picnic area here. We brought a picnic and discovered that their picnic shelter had no tables (some families were sitting under it on blankets). We opted instead for a cozy, shady bench near the closed nature center-- but we'd recommend eating before you go!
4. Fort Hunt Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 57 reviews
Reviewed By wilsonhillworks - Lancaster, United States
We stopped here on our way to Mount Vernon. There’s a lot to explore and many opportunities for stretching your legs on a long trip. Picnic areas abound and clean rest rooms available. Parking was convenient too!
5. Windmill Hill Park
6. Founders Park
7. Green Spring Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 53 reviews
Reviewed By lawrenceo616 - Falls Church, United States
This is a jewel. Not many know of it, because it is behind developments. The garden is special - the more you look, the more you see. It is even nice in the winter. It has a nice stream that runs through it and which provides a very nice water garden. It has traditional upland flower gardens. It has a historical farmhouse with rotation art exhibits. And it has a visitor center.
8. Winkler Botanical Preserve
9. Grist Mill Park
10. Riverside Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By csserious - Chantilly, United States
Located just minutes from Mt. Vernon by the river, what impressed me is a long trail sandwiched between the Potomac and GW parkway. I would say its lot more refreshing to gaze at the river and small waves than a regular trail amid just trees would offer. Parking is easy and free, but it will fill up quickly on warm days. There are benches to sit and enjoy the scenery after a long walk. Highly recommended.
