LGBTQ Getaway Guide to Alexandria and D.C.

Stroll King Street

Stroll through Old Town’s walkable King Street mile, lined with 200+ independent shops and restaurants set inside historic buildings, red-brick sidewalks and a free trolley. Step inside local shops on or just off King Street offering curated selections of stationery, vintage barware, sustainable fashion and more.

Start Strolling

Dine at Hank’s Oyster Bar

For an unforgettable seafood experience, head to Hank’s Oyster Bar in Old Town North, helmed by acclaimed restauranteur Jamie Leeds, voted “Best Chef” in the Washington Blade’s Best of Gay D.C Awards for two consecutive years.

Dig In

Enjoy a Pride Night Performance

Take in a show at Tony Award-winning Signature Theatre in Arlington’s nearby Shirlington neighborhood. Every production hosts one or two Friday Pride Night performances during its run, with a lively post-show reception for members of the LGBTQ community, family and friends.

See a Show

Sneak Into Captain Gregory’s

Back in Alexandria, blend sweets and spirits with delightful donuts alongside a handcrafted cocktail at Captain Gregory’s, Old Town’s nautical-themed speakeasy.

Drinks & Dessert

Start Your Day at Mae’s Market and Café

Spend a laid-back morning at Mae’s Market and Café, a local favorite in Old Town Alexandria. Pair a latte with a flaky pastry, or enjoy breakfast and lunch options like quiche or a bulgogi sandwich. Return in the evening when the space turns into Virginia’s Darling, a nightly “dinner party” with an eclectic mix of small plates and a focus on women-owned wine offerings.

Fuel Up

Discover D.C.’s Dupont Circle

Explore vibrant Dupont Circle, host of D.C.’s Pride Parade and Youth Pride Day, along with some of D.C.’s best dining spots, from Duke’s Grocery to Iron Gate. Peruse the shelves at iconic Kramerbooks, open late on Saturdays and home to an extensive LGBTQ section.

Explore Dupont or Discover More in D.C.

Photo by Sara Cottle.

Traverse D.C.’s Museum and Gallery Scene

Browse Dupont’s intimate Phillips Collection of modern art or head to the National Portrait Gallery to say hello to the Obamas’ portraits and decompress in the breathtaking Kogod Courtyard. Don’t forget to stop by the free Smithsonian museums like the Museum of Natural History or the National Air and Space Museum as well.

Gallery Hop

Raise a Glass at a Local Hotspot

For a nightcap, visit A League of Her Own, run by and for queer women and beyond, and located in D.C.’s Adams Morgan neighborhood. Or, cross back over the Potomac River to tropical-themed Freddie’s Beach Bar, Arlington’s prime LGBTQ (and straight-friendly) bar, featuring karaoke and drag shows.

Cheers!

Savor Brunch by the Water

Take it easy and feel the breeze as you enjoy a delicious riverside meal. Try Vola’s Dockside Grill for satisfying seafood fare or Virtue Feed & Grain for waterfront and park-side views on a laid-back patio.

Start Brunching!

Meet Local Artists

See art in action at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, a former World War II munitions plant, where you can glimpse 72 artists’ studios and even pick up a piece to take home.

Get Inspired

Take an Electric Bike Tour

Riders of wide-ranging ages and abilities can zip through the city in style on a Pedego Electric Bike tour. Cruise on one of the Old Town tours or take an excursion to the National Mall or Mount Vernon.

Start Cruising

Linger at Port City Brewing Company and Lost Boy Cider

Spend your final hours in the city unwinding at Port City Brewing Company, an award-winning craft brewery in Alexandria’s West End or Lost Boy Cider, Northern Virginia’s first urban cidery. Check out the Pride gear as you enjoy brewery tours, a tasting flight and events like trivia night and beer yoga.

Start Sipping