Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

Discover Alexandria’s five-star hotel of the 18th century! 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 tavernkeeper 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.

Group tours are offered by reservation at the discounted rate of $4 per person. Tours led by a costumed guide are $5 per person and after-hours lantern tours with a costumed guide are $6 per person. The museum offers tours, programs and special events.