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Old Town Alexandria Weekend Itinerary

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Voted one of Travel + Leisure’s Best Cities in the U.S. 2022 and a Condé Nast Traveler Top 5 Best Small City in the U.S. 2022, Alexandria, Virginia, is a welcoming weekend escape on the Potomac River minutes from Washington, D.C. A nationally designated historic district founded in 1749, Old Town Alexandria hums with more than 200 independent restaurants and boutiques alongside intimate historic museums and new happenings at the waterfront. Hotels ranging from boutique-style to the best known brands await you. Plan a perfect weekend getaway with the ideas below. For more inspiration, see Top 18 Things to Do in Old Town.

PUBLIC HEALTH NOTICE

Alexandria is currently at a low COVID-19 community level. Wearing a mask is not required in most settings, but individuals are welcome to do so at any time; certain businesses may still require masks.

Friday

Stroll King Street

Stroll through the heart of Old Town along King Street, named one of the “Great Streets” of America. This walkable mile is lined with 200+ independent shops and restaurants set inside historic buildings, red-brick sidewalks and a free trolley.

Start Exploring >

Explore Art & Architecture

Immerse yourself in the city’s centuries-spanning architecture or explore the art scene with vibrant murals and photo-ready public artwork. Pick your passion and take a self-guided themed walk to see more.

Soak It In >

Dine in Historic Settings

Whether dining on Virtue Feed & Grain’s outdoor patio or in the upstairs Sofa Lounge, you’ll be surrounding by historic character in this former 1800s feed house. Savor local flavors and unbeatable atmosphere throughout Old Town’s restaurants in centuries-old buildings.

Bon Appétit! >

Check Out Alexandria’s Sweets Spots

Find everything from authentic Argentinian gelato to crave-worthy vegan donuts and beyond.

Learn More >

Saturday

Visit the Oldest Farmer’s Market

Head to the nation’s longest continually operating farmers’ markets in one site at the Old Town Farmers’ Market in the shadow of City Hall every Saturday morning. During peak season, you’ll find over 70 vendors offering fruits, vegetables, breads, cheeses, meats and more.

Start Shopping >

Savor Sunday Brunch

Find French flavors at Fontaine or Del Ray Café; sip and savor brunch with a beverage at Sonoma Cellar; enjoy the Southern-infused menu at Hen Quarter and more.

Order Up>

Discover Local Artists

Stroll to the marina to explore the Torpedo Factory Art Center, a former munitions plant that is home to the largest collection of publicly accessible working artist studios in the U.S., including 82 studios, seven galleries and every medium imaginable.

Get Inspired >

Dine Al Fresco

Unwind at one of Old Town’s waterfront restaurants and take in Potomac River views. Vola’s Dockside Grill serves comforting seafood classics with on-the-dock seating made for people watching, while BARCA Pier offers a stylish riverside escape.

Dine Outdoors >

Sunday

Snap Picturesque Photos

Start the day by snapping share-worthy photos of picturesque row houses on cobblestoned Captain’s Row, or catch a sunrise at Jones Point Park on a morning walk through the neighborhood and along the Potomac River waterfront.

Say Cheese >

Step Back in Time

Explore history where it happened at eight intimate historic site museums. Step back in time at the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum and see original contents at a pharmacy dating back to 1792, a favorite of Harry Potter fans. Or, dive deep into Alexandria’s rich Black history and cultural experiences.

Discover History >

Cruise the Potomac

Get out on the water and enjoy stunning views of Washington’s monuments and historic landmarks on a narrated boat cruise, or choose from among other boat tour offerings connecting Alexandria with attractions of the D.C. region.

Set Sail >

See the First President’s Estate

George Washington’s Mount Vernon is just a bike or boat ride from Old Town. Explore the historic estate and take part in immersive activities including a 4D film and the first-person leadership experience, “Be Washington: It’s Your Turn to Lead.”

Start Exploring >

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