Old Town Alexandria, one of Southern’s Living magazine’s 2020 “South’s Best Cities” and one of Condé Nast Traveler’s 2020 “Top 5 Best Small Cities,” has so much to offer! There is so much to do and see and truly something for everyone and every budget. Check out our team’s list of the best things to do in Old Town Alexandria.
The Best Things to Do in Old Town Alexandria
Browse the Old Town Farmers’ Market
301 King Street
This market dates back to George Washington’s times and it is one of the nation’s longest continually operating farmers’ markets. Every Saturday morning 70 vendors set up in front of City Hall to sell their fruits, veggies, baked goods, cheese, flowers, and crafts. The Old Town Farmers’ Market is a great spot for people-watching.
Picnic Along the Waterfront
Grab some sandwiches from the Old Town Sandwich Shop (127 S. Peyton Street) or The Italian Place (621 Wythe Street) and have a picnic at one of Old Town Alexandria’s five waterfront Parks. Enjoy the expansive views of the Potomac and our nation’s capital while soaking up some sunshine!
Visit the Providence
1 Cameron Street
The Providence is a full-scale reproduction of one of the most renowned ships in the Continental Navy, helmed by Captain John Paul Jones in 1776. Fun fact: This “celebrity” tall ship appeared in the 2006 movie Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest.
Snap a Selfie at The “Spite” House
523 Queen Street
The Spite House is THE narrowest home in America! At just seven feet wide, this bright blue home is a must for selfie lovers and Instagrammers. The Spite House was built in 1830 by Alexandria brickmaker and city council member, John Hollensbury in an attempt to keep loiterers out of his alley. Just keep in mind, this home is a private residence.
Stroll Along King Street
King Street has been named one of the “Great Streets” of America by the American Planning Association. The mile-long walk is chock full of unique shopping and dining opportunities, along with art galleries and museums.
Wander Through the Torpedo Factory
105 North Union Street
The Torpedo Factory Art Center is located in a former World War II torpedo factory. It is home to 82 artists’ studios and is the largest collection of publicly accessible working studios. Here you can walk around and watch artists creating paintings, jewelry, ceramics, and more. The Center is also home to seven art galleries as well as the Alexandria Archaeology Museum, which offers exhibits about local sites and discoveries.
Shop!
Old Town Alexandria is home to a seemingly endless number of wonderful independent shops and boutiques where you can find clothing, jewelry, beauty items, home decor, food, wine, and gifts. Some of our favorites include The Hour, Bishop Boutique, Hooray for Books! Tsalt, Red Barn Mercantile, and The Hive.
The Bottom Line
It’s impossible to pick the single best thing to do in Old Town Alexandria! With its charming and historic streets and its wide array of cultural, shopping, recreational, and dining options, Old Town Alexandria truly has something for everyone.
Did we miss what you think is the best thing to do in Old Town Alexandria? Please let us know so we can add it to this list!
