Spend a day in Alexandria

#30 in Best Things To Do in Washington, D.C.

All Things To Do

spend-a-day-in-alexandria

Key Info

Price & Hours

Free
Varies by business

Details

Entertainment and Nightlife, Free, Cafes, Neighborhood/Area, Shopping, Sightseeing
Time to Spend: Full Day

Old Town

Old Town is likely where you'll spend most of your time. King Street, the main avenue, is lined with vibrant shopping and dining options. Treat yourself to coffee at Misha's, ice cream at Pop's, and dinner at Fish Market. Don't miss the country’s oldest farmers market, available on Saturdays. Another key spot is the Torpedo Factory Art Center, a hub for numerous artist studios. Here, you can observe artists at work and purchase unique pieces. This historic building also has a past in torpedo manufacturing from 1918 to 1923.

Further immerse yourself in history by visiting Gadsby's Tavern Museum, Tall Ship Providence, or the Alexandria Archaeology Museum, located within the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

Del Ray

About 2.5 miles northwest of Old Town, Del Ray offers a primarily residential yet rewarding experience. Start with a coffee from Swing's, a well-established D.C. coffee company since 1916. Head to Mount Vernon Avenue, the pulse of Del Ray, filled with various shops and a plethora of dining options. Don't forget to stop by Dairy Godmother, Bagel Uprising, and Cheesetique for some delightful treats.

Getting Here

The most convenient way to travel from D.C. to Alexandria is via Metro's Blue line toward Franconia/Springfield. Disembark at King Street for Old Town, or hop off at Braddock Road for Del Ray. Within Old Town, you can navigate the area on foot or take advantage of the free trolley along King Street.

To move between Old Town and Del Ray or other Alexandria neighborhoods, options include ride-shares, bikes from Capital Bikeshare, or walking. Driving is also possible but be prepared for potentially challenging and costly parking.

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