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Minutes from Washington, D.C. on the Potomac River, Alexandria, Virginia, is nationally recognized for its rich history and beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture, an extraordinary backdrop for a thriving boutique scene, acclaimed chef-driven restaurants, vibrant arts and culture, and a refined yet welcoming, walkable lifestyle. VisitAlexandriaVA.com

Located just minutes from Washington, D.C. on the Potomac River waterfront and named a Top 5 Best Small City in the U.S. 2022 by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards and voted a Travel + Leisure Best City in the U.S. 2022, Alexandria delights travelers from all over the world.  A nationally designated historic district founded in 1749 that George Washington called home, Old Town Alexandria hums with more than 200 independent restaurants and boutiques alongside intimate historic museums and new happenings at the waterfront. Old Town’s cobblestone streets and red brick sidewalks attracts everyone from presidents to pet lovers. At the heart of it all is bustling King Street, a walkable mile recognized as one of the “Great Streets” of America.

Nestled amongst cobblestone streets and the Potomac waterfront, Alexandria boasts a range of activities, from boat cruises to fine dining, art galleries to boutique shopping, all minutes from Washington, D.C. Named a Top 5 Best Small City in the U.S. 2022 by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, Alexandria houses the Torpedo Factory Art Center with 82 artist studios and galleries, and historic sites that are part of the Office of Historic Alexandria’s museum system, one of only eight municipal organizations across the nation accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. Combine this with award-winning restaurants and streets of boutiques, all within walking distance, and find an extraordinary city tucked just beneath the nation’s capital.

Favored by presidents from George Washington to President Obama, Old Town’s epicurean scene has, according to The New York Times, “taken its place at the culinary table.” Nestled amongst classic early-American architecture of red brick and cobblestone streets are Old Town’s acclaimed restaurants, where diners dine in historic buildings and speakeasy-style bars transport lovers to an era of romance and sophistication.

The New York Times lauds the vibrancy of Alexandria’s dining scene, saying “the city has taken its place at the culinary table.” Nationally recognized as a culinary destination, with more than 90 dining establishments in the historic district alone, Alexandria offers a full spectrum of dining, from local pubs to locally-owned and operated neighborhood restaurants as well as nationally recognized chef-owned eateries. Within easy walking distance of many hotels, or just a quick free trolley or hotel shuttle ride away, choosing a restaurant might be your biggest decision. Alexandria is a flavorful melting pot in the truest sense.

Listed amongst America’s Top ArtPlaces 2013, Alexandria’s artistic hub centers in the Torpedo Factory Art Center, home to 82 artist studios and six galleries, where visitors witness artists’ creative processes up close. At the legendary Birchmere Music Hall, whose stage has held Johnny Cash and Ray Charles, music goers dine mere feet from performers, ensuring every performance is unforgettable.

Independently owned boutiques where fashionistas uncover high-end shoes, designer clothing and eye-catching home décor, comprise what The Wall Street Journal classifies as “some of the best stores and galleries in the [DC] region.” Creativity abounds as flawless outfits materialize, budding chefs meet unique cookware and dazzling baubles are non-negotiable.

Whether by bike, boat or on foot, Alexandria tours ensure visitors view, taste and explore each corner of the city’s dynamic culture. Marvel at George Washington’s meticulously-preserved home by day and follow a spine-chilling ghost tour by night, becoming immersed in Alexandria’s longstanding history as the nation’s third oldest historic district.

With historic sites, inventive museums and intriguing tours that explore the city’s past, people and even food, Alexandria illuminates America’s story. Follow an 18th-century costumed guide by lantern light through the haunted streets of Old Town Alexandria, hearing ghost stories, legends and folklore, take a walking food tour enjoying Old Town’s restaurants while learning history, hop on a bike and tour the town, or view the majestic monuments of the nation’s capital by boat. There’s so much to experience, you’ll want to make a weekend of it!

Located just five miles south of Washington, D.C., this vibrant waterfront city is minutes from Reagan National Airport, boasts easy access to major interstate highways, and is served by two international airports and four Metrorail stations. Once in Alexandria the free King Street Trolley and water taxi service makes getting around Alexandria easy.