Alexandria is a fairly large and populous area, and determining what to do on a trip there can be overwhelming. But Old Town Alexandria is a safe bet, with its rich history and abundance of independent small businesses. Whether you’re interested in history, art or just eating your way through the local restaurants, there are plenty of things to see and do.
Local Attractions
Art enthusiasts are spoiled for choice when it comes to Alexandria’s art-related offerings. If the weather’s nice, consider taking on the town’s official mural stroll, which will take you around some of Old Town’s most iconic pieces of outdoor art.
If you prefer your art indoors, or want to buy some to take home, the Torpedo Factory Art Center houses the U.S.’s largest collection of open artist’s studios under one roof. It houses several galleries, an archaeology museum and art classes through the nonprofit The Art League. Watch an independent artist complete a piece, or buy one from one of the art center’s many residents.
For cat-lovers, a visit to Mount Purrnon Cat Café and Wine Bar is a must. Guests can sample a large menu of wine, beer and light café fare, all while playing and cuddling with adoptable kitties. Who knows, you might even end up taking one home.
Looking for adventure, or just want to challenge yourself with some brainteasers? Escape Room Live offers several historical-themed challenges, with games based on famous literary figures like Edgar Allan Poe and Sherlock Holmes.
Given that Alexandria has such a long and storied history, many of its attractions are based on its past. Visitors can explore George Washington’s former home at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, come aboard the replica of the Revolutionary-era tall ship Providence or learn about unsung heroes at the African American Hall of Fame.
Shopping
One of the best places to go shopping in Alexandria is the shopping district on King Street, which boasts the largest collection of independent boutiques in the D.C. region. While there are plenty of familiar chains there (so if you need to get your Lululemon fix, you can), visitors are also spoiled for choice when it comes to small businesses that cannot be found anywhere else.
For any ladies looking to expand their wardrobe, King Street is home to several boutique-style stores focused on women’s fashion. American in Paris offers European-style fashion influenced by the owner’s career as a world-traveling stylist, and is also the home of the smash hit “Sunny Legs” moisturizer. Gossypia offers unique handmade items inspired by Latin American culture and folk art, sourcing much of its stock from the Torpedo Factory. She’s Unique focuses on subtle, tasteful jewelry that will match any outfit, along with a unique “permanent jewelry” welding service for seamless pieces.
There are plenty of local bookstores as well. Friends to Lovers is the first romance-themed bookstore in the D.C. area, joining a group of less than 20 romance bookstores in the U.S. and Canada. Harambee Books and Artworks (named for the Swahili word for “working together”) focuses on books by Black authors from around the world, from picture books to memoirs, including some texts that are difficult to find at most commercial bookstores. And for children, Hooray for Books! offers a cozy and fun reading space, though it has also expanded to include YA and adult sections.
Looking for something uniquely Alexandria? Most local history museums have gift shops with unique souvenirs reflective of the area’s history. The Old Town Shop is a gift shop that sells all things Old Town-related, from regional snacks to houseware that will serve as a lasting reminder of your Alexandria travels.
Food
There’s a wide variety of restaurants in Alexandria, so you can satisfy whatever it is you’re craving at any time. From American-style burgers to Nepalese cuisine, there’s truly something for everyone.
If you happen to be in town on a Sunday, many restaurants have special brunch menus. For a comforting diner brunch, Beeliner Diner offers all-day breakfast with baked goods and bread made from scratch. Toastique primarily specializes in gourmet toast piled high with avocado, smoked salmon, prosciutto and other sweet and savory toppings, as well as a cold-pressed juice bar using all-natural ingredients. In the mood for seafood? The Wharf is housed in an over-200-year-old building and is famous for its lump crab cakes and seafood benedicts.
In the mood for something fancier? There are many fine dining options for discerning diners, including some uncommon types of cuisine. Try Russian-Uzbek fusion at Rus Uz, or escargots at Bastille Brasserie & Bar. Savor some surf and turf at 1799 Prime Steak & Seafood, or live jazz, blues and dancing at 219 Restaurant.
Finish off your meal with a coffee from one of the many independent coffee shops in the area. Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii brews Kona coffee with comforting flavors, and bakes Hawaiian classics like malasada donuts. St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub is a beloved local cafe with locations in Del Ray, Old Town and Fairlington, serving up coffee and light fare. Or sample authentic French pastries at Gustave Boulangerie & Brasserie, which also serves beer and wine.
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