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Old Town
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Outdoor restaurant scene in winter; people sit at tables with red umbrellas. O’Connell’s Restaurant is decorated with red bows, garlands, and warm lights, creating a festive holiday atmosphere as leafless trees line the street.
Robinson Landing Waterfront
People stroll down a lively, sunlit street lined with outdoor cafes, red umbrellas, greenery, and brick buildings on both sides. Some sit and dine, while others walk and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere.
Shoppers at Red Barn
King Street Outdoor dining
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Old Town Alexandria

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Old Town is Alexandria’s beloved downtown and nationally designated historic district on the Potomac River waterfront. The King Street mile and surrounding brick-lined sidewalks are studded with centuries-old architecture, historic attractions and independent businesses.

Old Town is the heart of Alexandria, located just minutes from Washington, D.C., voted a Travel + Leisure Top 5 Best City in the U.S. 2025 and a Condé Nast Traveler Top 3 Best Small City in the U.S. 2025.

What to Do in Old Town

Let Old Town Alexandria’s historic rowhouses and flickering lanterns spirit you away to soak up a vibrant small business scene, ever-evolving waterfront and welcoming hospitality.

Holidays in Alexandria, VA

A festive street scene shows O’Connell’s Restaurant decorated with garlands, wreaths, bows, and lights. Outdoor tables with red umbrellas line the sidewalk, and holiday decorations adorn the neighboring buildings.

Old Town Alexandria Restaurants

A Couple Sitting At Brunch Fontaine Caffe In Alexandria

Events in Alexandria

New Year's Eve Fireworks displayed over Old Town Alexandria.

Top 18 Things to Do in Old Town Alexandria

A person walks past three colorful row houses—white, blue, and red—on a tree-lined street with a sidewalk and utility pole in the foreground.

Old Town Shopping

A man and woman stroll through down King Street in Alexandria, VA admiring holiday decorations.

America’s 250th Birthday in Alexandria, VA

A split image showing fireworks over water at night, a couple walking toward a historic mansion, and a docked tall ship with an American flag near a waterfront park during the day.
All About Old Town All About Old Town

Neighborhood Favorites: King Street with George Worrell

Join George Worrell of PBS/WHUT as he strolls down King Street in Old Town Alexandria to visit AR Workshop and Pippin Toy Co.

Carlyle House
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A collage shows: a man walking on a brick sidewalk by colorful historic row houses, a tall stone tower with a spire against a blue sky, and a small modernist home surrounded by trees and grass.
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A brunch table set with pancakes topped with strawberries and syrup, eggs Benedict with salad, grilled grapefruit, a cappuccino, a glass of orange juice, and a red checkered napkin.
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A group of six people sit around a table on a rooftop patio, raising their glasses in a celebratory toast. Tall buildings and greenery are visible in the background, with other diners seated nearby.

Discover Old Town North

Just a few blocks north of King Street, roam Alexandria’s Arts and Culture District. Find panoramic river views at Jula’s on the Potomac and rooftop dining at Hank’s Oyster Bar. Check out eye-catching art installations, stroll through Oronoco Bar Park, then settle in for an elevated evening at Oak Steakhouse.

 

Top Things to Do in Old Town North

See More of the City

Alexandria Neighborhoods Guide

Del Ray

Four people socialize at outdoor tables beneath a red canopy, in front of a colorful mural on a brick wall that says “Greetings from Peoria.” One person is walking by while three are seated and conversing.

West End

A man and woman walk together on a curved wooden bridge over a calm lake, surrounded by lush green trees and clear blue sky on a sunny day.

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