This is one of our favorite bars in Old Town. The patio is amazing and our dogs love it too!

Alexandria has more than 140 locations associated with the nation’s first president. For the quintessential experience, head eight miles south of Old Town to George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Tour the mansion, explore the lush gardens and grounds—including can’t-miss Pioneer Farm and the distillery and gristmill—and hear the whole story on specialized tours.

As a historic port city and a hub for City Cruises, Alexandria is the launching point for sightseeing cruises and water taxis, boarding at Old Town’s bustling marina featuring street performers and outdoor dining. See national landmarks on the narrated Washington Monuments Cruise, take the water taxi into DC or cruise to George Washington’s Mount Vernon and National Harbor.

Come to dine or visit the Museum consists of the c. 1785 tavern and the 1792 City Tavern and Hotel. Both were constructed by John Wise but made famous by tavern-keeper John Gadsby. His establishment was the center of political, business, and social life in Alexandria and in the new federal city of Washington, D.C. The City Tavern’s Ballroom was the location of George Washington’s Birthnight Ball in 1798 and 1799, as well as Thomas Jefferson’s Inaugural Banquet in 1801. The museum offers tours, programs and special events.

Visit the Gadsby’s Tavern Museum website for hours and self-guided tour information.

Alexandria is a foodie destination, with a renowned culinary scene and plenty of new restaurants opening all the time, many with stunning views of the Potomac River. Enjoy independent and chef-driven restaurants in a can’t-beat historic atmosphere with many Old Town restaurants located in centuries-old historic buildings. Snag a table at the laid-back patio of Virtue Feed & Grain, an American tavern located in an 1800s feed house located steps from the waterfront.

Enjoy stunning views of the Potomac River while you dine al fresco at Alexandria’s waterfront restaurants. Hummingbird by James Beard-nominee chef Cathal Armstrong is the latest buzzworthy spot, offering clambakes, crab boils and oyster roasts. Nearby at Vola’s Dockside Grill, enjoy fresh-shucked oysters, crab cakes and New England or Carolina low-country steamer pails. There are plenty of riverside restaurants to choose from in Alexandria, including mainstays Blackwall Hitch and Chart House. Or, dine al fresco at new eateries like Ada’s on the River (highlighted in ESSENCE and The Washington Post) and BARCA Pier and Wine Bar.

Browse one-of-a-kind finds starting just one block away from the Potomac River. Old Town Alexandria is home to more than 100 independently owned boutiques, all in a walkable mile centered around King Street. From designer shoes to exquisite vintage cocktail ware to home decor, shopping in Alexandria is an experience with in-store activities like “yarn tastings,” trunk shows and DIY workshops.

Arrive in Old Town Alexandria by water taxi or Metrorail and step on to historic King Street, considered the heart of this charming city This walkable mile of centuries-old architecture was named one of the “Great Streets” of America by the American Planning Association and is also serviced by the free King Street Trolley. You will find numerous restaurants, boutiques and museums along the way.

The National Mall Is America’s Most-Visited National Park. Take a quick drive or hop on the metro to explore the D.C. Museums, Monuments, and Memorials. All Smithsonian museums are free!