You can discover many outstanding eateries in Alexandria, one of which is Virtue & Grain. 25 Best Things to Do in Alexandria, Virginia - VacationIdea.com While checking the calendar for your visit, remember that Alexandria, Virginia also offers a host of annual festivities, from Del Rays Art on the Avenue to the spectacular Old Town St. Patricks Day parade and dog show. 8. Walk in the scenes to see camp life activities. Wander through the perfectly maintained gardens and tranquil woodlands on their grounds, enjoy the art and cultural artifacts on display, or reserve the dining space for a special gathering. Jul 24-28 2023. A portion of all sales go towards feeding those in need. Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer. On the same day as the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade during Biggest Holiday Weekend, Old Town Alexandria's waterfront will shine for the 22 nd Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights sponsored by Amazon on December 3, 2022, at 5:30 p.m. as more than 50 brightly lit boats cruise along one mile of the Potomac River shoreline. This tour is recommended for ages 2 and up. Which places provide the best fun & games in Alexandria for couples? The Key to the City Museum pass, a $60 value for just $20, includes admission to nine historic sites and discounts to more. This must-visit site beautifully preserves Washington's mansion, outbuildings, and grounds augmented by an excellent museum. Some of the best places to visit in Alexandria are in Old Town, but there is more to see in surrounding neighborhoods and towns. Bookmark our list so you don't miss any of the fun. The collection of oddities and historic artifactsincluding unicorn root, dragon's blood, and a medicine order from Martha Washingtonare displayed just as they were in the past. One of the most famous landmarks in Alexandria, that's still active to this day, is the Old Town Farmers' Market. It's not only fun for the kids, but provides a healthy workout that burns off excess energy and helps keep them fit. 2023 June events in Northern Virginia welcome back popular, multi-day festivals and kick off summer fun with food, wine, music, fireworks, and more. If youre still feeling adventurous, head to the Sportrock Climbing Center, which has classes available for beginners to pros, or one of several other climbing and yoga studios throughout the city. As its name suggests, the imposing brick building was once used to produce munitions, including torpedos. They also have clean and convenient restrooms. Decadent desserts, such as peanut butter and chocolate icebox pie or flourless chocolate cake, are also on offer. If you are on a budget, take advantage of the free hands-on workshop every third Saturday of the month. We independently evaluate all recommended services and products. Jones Point Park is accessible to all ages. The Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site sits on what was a Union Army site in the Civil War. Artists are happy to answer questions about their process and show off works in progress. They offer fast-moving classes for high-energy toddlers. As a historic port city and a hub for City Cruises anchored by Hornblower, Alexandria is the launching point forsightseeing cruises and water taxis, boarding at Old Towns bustling marina featuring street performers and outdoor dining. Restaurants, pubs, and bars draw folks to relax and socialize at cool spaces and outdoor patios. As you enjoy the game, you can order beer or other alcoholic drinks, and dishes like wings, burgers, and salads are available. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Alexandria West/Mark Center. Find out the story of Freemasonrys origins and development. A series of historic signs explain the area's transformation from its earliest inhabitants to recent times. Continuing south along the water, stop at Ford's Landing Park to learn more about Alexandria's history. Some of the kids were really rough housing around smaller children with what seemed like lack of parental supervision. The lighthouse operated from 1856 to 1926. This lovely farmhouse that used to belong to George Washington is now home to the American Horticultural Society, a group dedicated to making gardens sustainable and accessible to all Americans. If you've been wondering what to do in Alexandria, Virginia, this article should have given you many ideas. The venue hosts various crafting workshops where you can create home decor items like wall hangings, pet beds, door mats, and much more. Murphys Grand Irish Pub, Village Brauhaus, Port City Brewing, The Light Horse, Don Taco, and Virtue Feed and Grain are just a few of the seemingly endless selection of local-favorite pubs along this road. Dont worry about the return trip because your squad will get to relax on the boat ride back. Rumor is that George Washington sold his produce here. They can have a magnificent 360-degree view of Alexandria in the Observation Deck. Take our self-guided walking tourpast outdoor architectural gems. It is small. Enjoy dockside festivities from 2 to 8 p.m. in Waterfront . Jones Point Lighthouse, the last remaining riverside lighthouse in the Chesapeake Bay area offers a pretty spot for sunrise photos. The park is a pretty place to walk with pretty gardens, flowering trees, and benches with a river view. There are many displays of ceramics, silverware, and furniture of the time. Now you can sail the Potomac on a 90-minute cruise while interpreters share the history of the ship. Fort Ward Park was built to defend Washington DC during the civil war. In March and April, Potomac cruises are a fun way tosee the cherry blossoms in DCwithout the crowds. Things to Do with Kids in Alexandria VA | Museums, Parks & Tours Cozymeal does it all!" Read more Request a Quote 2. Tasks include maintaining the beacon light, the building, and shipping and weather data. Do the Mad Science tour featuring medicines with surprising side effects. See nationallandmarks on the narrated Monuments Tour, take the water taxi into D.C. or cruise to George Washingtons Mount Vernon and National Harbor. Old Town Alexandria is a fun place to explore when in the city. Find a tour on the Visit Alexandria website. Best of all, it is one of the free kid-friendly things to do. The trail passes right through Alexandria, offering a pleasant ride along the Potomac in either direction. Try out the Geek Tours for a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum. There are plenty of other dining options, along with a unique selection of boutiques and specialty stores. In the 1800s Alexandria was home to the largest domestic slave trading operation in the country. provides a slightly more sophisticated version of the classic pottery painting studio, with many available art projects to complete with your friends, high-quality art supplies for sale, and an exceptionally friendly and relaxing atmosphere. Guided historic, haunted, and ghost tours are a popular and fun way to explore Old Town on foot. The beautiful 100 block of Prince Street, between S. Lee and S. Union, features a wide cobblestone street climbing a hill. More than 70 vendors offer up fresh local produce, prepared foods, and arts and crafts. 41 Best Things to Do in Alexandria: From Nature to Action (2023) - Our Kids Mount Vernon was one of George Washington's former homes and is where he lived throughout his presidency. Visitors can explore the area on foot or hop between Old Town attractions on the free King Street Trolley. Best Things to Do in Alexandria for Couples Enter dates Filters 1 Attractions Traveler favorites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Sights & Landmarks Museums Fun & Games Nature & Parks Nightlife Here, visitors can stroll a paved path dotted with parks, restaurants, and attractions. You can see the other three alley houses at: Cobblestone streets were once the norm in Old Town and that history is preserved on Captain's Row. Once a busy port, Alexandria is blessed with an attractive and welcoming area along the Potomac River. A great way to discover some unique spots is by going on an Old Town Alexandria food tour. Here are 10 of the best places to visit and things to do on the Alexandria Waterfront: Enjoy the view, relax, picnic, and take in the latest public art exhibit at Waterfront Park. Great communication/organization leading up to the trip, great logistical planning during the experience, highly skilled AMGA certified guide, route difficulty was well calibrated to my level of skill/experience, excellent approach to teaching, and beautiful locations to boot! It's less than a mile from Jones Point to Waterfront Park and you'll have pretty views throughout if you follow the riverside trail. Check out the Spite House at 523 Queen Street. Theres always room for dessert in Alexandria with ice cream shops, cupcakeries and chocolate shops lining King Street. Accommodation This unique and exciting city features an array of outdoor attractions as well as fun bars, excellent museums, and much more! About 16 of us went as a get together before a wedding. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Harborside Hotel, Also See:Charlottesville Attractions for KidsKid Friendly Things to Do in Fredericksburg, 105 N. Union StAlexandria, VA 22314(703) 746-4570Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. [+] There are 67 different types of things to do inside in or near Alexandria, Virginia. You can also see different shows, and there are multiple food outlets to get theme park snacks like funnel cake. Easy to reach and plenty of parking. Sports Complexes. On our last visit, the artwork Groundswell illustrated the changing Potomac depth with wooden pilings. At the garden and farm, you can learn about the history of the farmland and see farm animals. Give us feedback about this article. Every weekend, Alexandria communities head out and wander through stalls of high-quality produce and goods made and grown regionally. Party Packages | City of Alexandria, VA One of the most fascinating attractions in Alexandria is the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. Things to do in Baltimore include seeing Maryland landmarks on a sightseeing tour, experiencing a dinner cruise on the Inner Harbor, and visiting attractions, like the Baltimore Museum of Art. The theater is just off I495 and easy to get to. Tip: Jump on the free King Street trolley to help you get around if you dont want to walk. The park also has a wooden You are welcome to bring your own bottle. Alexandria, VA Adult Fun Events | Eventbrite She created and fun time. It runs between the King Street Metrorail Station and the Potomac River waterfront. She even managed to get me to climb the 60ft wall! Several favorites are sprinkled along King Street, while others, like Barca and Ada's on the River, command spots by the water. Try to get a table on their beautiful terrace! 15 Best Things to Do in Alexandria for First-Time Visitors And, in a shocking departure from most of Northern Virginia, parking is free and ample! And caf connoisseurs have more options than they have time to sample in Alexandria, with charismatic local coffee houses on every corner, including St. Elmos, the Del Ray Caf, Buzz Bakeshop, Killer ESP and Extra Perks. Living in historic Richmond, Virginia, Juliet Warren, a writer for Family Destinations Guide, knows her hometown inside out. Get Outside The Alexandria Archaeology Museum is also located in the same building. Subscribe for discounts on tickets and hotels and our latest guides. Interestingly, it was the fifth largest fort constructed to protect Washington DC from Confederate troops. Top 18 Things to Do in Old Town Alexandria. The Capital Wheel is a Ferris wheel situated across the Potomac River from Jones Point Park at National Harbor, Maryland. For the quintessential experience, head eight miles south of Old Town to George Washingtons Mount Vernon. One of the best things to do in Alexandria with kids involves viewing and making art. Activities range from biking along the Mount Vernon Trail or wandering around Green Spring Gardens to going on a memorable Potomac River dinner cruise from DC. Fun fact: George Washington used to send produce from Mount Vernon to sell here! Alexandria has more than 140 locations associated with the nations first president. Get Lost in Alexandrias Architectural Wonder, 9. Experience DC: things to do this week Collection GTFO & Eat Week: DC's best food & drink events at a discount Collection Popular in Alexandria See more DMV PARTY IN THE PARK 2023 Today 12:00 PM Joseph Hensley Park Open Mic Night Today 8:00 PM + 52 more ESP Tea & Coffee Alexandria is primarily known for its rich colonial history. See art in person and in progress at the freeTorpedo Factory Art Centeror be inspired at theNational Inventors Hall of Fame and Museum. The Georgian-style mansion has spaces for guests and private areas for family use. You can also easily access the waterway to go kayaking or canoeing. Feedback Learn More Free Things to Do Outside Experience completely free al fresco activities, from finding hidden photo spots to taking historic walking tours to relaxing in natural escapes. TripBuzz found 478 things to do with kids in or near Alexandria, Virginia, including 459 fun activities for kids in nearby cities within 25 miles like Washington, Arlington, Silver Spring and Bethesda. Things To Do From Our Partners T Free King Street Trolley Ride in style and explore King Street via the city's most convenient mode of transportation. Taverna Cretekou: tasty Greek food from a restaurant that has been family-run for almost 50 years. Enjoy a Sightseeing Cruise or Water Taxi. Alexandria, VA Events, Calendar & Tickets | Eventbrite This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. 25 Fun Unique Things to Do in Alexandria VA - Fun in Fairfax VA Things to Do in Alexandria VA | Popular Attractions & Museums Its popular as a peaceful spot to watch sailboats launch and whiz by. The key to the city, especially when wandering Old Town, is to allow yourself to take that right turn, get lost and find something unexpected. Our Virginia travel guides are a resource for residents and visitors alike. The museum has a program to get your hands on the artifacts like a true archaeologist. As they fade, late-blooming Kwanzan trees take over, followed by Redbuds and Apple blossoms. Both Route 1 and the, By Metro: To reach Old Town, take the Blue Line to the King Street Old Town station then take the free. Things to do in Washington DC range from going on a Washington DC landmarks sightseeing tour to visiting museums and dining at world-class restaurants. Currently based in Canada, Alli has also lived and worked in the UK and Brazil and traveled in North and South America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. 12 Fun Things to Do in Alexandria with Kids Family Friendly Activities! It was super crowded (we arrived at 2pm) and the majority of kids do not wear masks (even some adults not in the eating section werent wearing their mask). Performing arts. To entertain youngsters in the Scout programs, ages 6 and up is the way to go. The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is one of the must-see attractions in Alexandria, Virginia. THE 10 BEST Big Group Activities in Alexandria (Updated 2023) - Tripadvisor Stay in close proximity to the Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site. Next, we share popular annual events and some of the best places to stay in the city. Shops and restaurants are walkable but you can also take the free King Street Trolley, which makes stops at several King Street locations. Step back in time and take on the role of a sailor under the command of the legendary Captain John Paul Jones during an immersive one-hour dockside tour. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. At just 7 feet wide, the skinniest historic house in the US is also one of the most Instagrammable places in Alexandria. In fact, our favorite way to reach Old Town is by walking along the river from Jones Point Park (details below). The park is operated by the National Park Service and is located in Oxon Hill, Maryland, only 15 minutes from Alexandria. Your youths will delight in this fun way to get around Old Town Alexandria. During peak season, youll find more than70 vendors offering fruits, vegetables, breads, cheeses,pastries, fresh pasta, pickled vegetables, cut flowers, potted plants, soaps, jewelry, art and more. It is an exceptional way to see the city in a personal manner. The park also has a wooden art area that are great to see with family. Alexandria Virginia offers a unique mix of walkable neighborhoods, rich American history, foodie destinations, and natural areas to explore. 51+ Summer Fun Activities in DC, Maryland & Northern Virginia - Our Kids This experience also includes a few stops at local pubs where you can grab some drinks with your ghost tour guide. Accommodations close to the Alexandria Black History Museum. Is there creativity overflowing in your home? Whether you are here for a girlfriends getaway, ananniversary trip, or afamily vacation, there is plenty to do. At the same time, Alexandria gardens fill with color at houses and businesses through the neighborhoods. Constructed in 1855, the small river lighthouse was used to guide ships into the Washington Navy Yard and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. A private residence located at 523 Queen Street, Spite House was built out of spite in 1830 to keep loiterers out of disgruntled owner John Hollensburys adjacent alley. By entering your email address you agree to our, Haunted Old Town Alexandria Ghost & Pub Walking Tour, Visit Mount Vernon by Bike - Self-guided Ride With Optional Boat Cruise Return, Visit the Alexandria Black History Museum, Tackle an escape room at Escape Room Live Alexandria, Snap a photo of the Jones Point Lighthouse at Jones Point Park, Snap pictures of the Hollensbury Spite House, Look around the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, Admire artworks at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, See the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, Hike or bike along the Mount Vernon Trail, Eat your way through an Old Town Alexandria food tour, Catch the game with a beer at Joe Theismann's Restaurant, Go to the Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site, Enjoy the amusements at Six Flags America, Plan a trip to George Washington's Mount Vernon, Have a day out at Oxon Cove Park & Oxon Hill Farm, Embassy Suites by Hilton Alexandria Old Town, Residence Inn Alexandria Old Town South at Carlyle, Hampton Inn & Suites Alexandria Old Town Area South, going on an Old Town Alexandria food tour, experience a dinner cruise along the Potomac River, Hampton Inn & Suites National Harbor Alexandria Area, Staybridge Suites Baltimore - Inner Harbor, 15 Landmarks in Virginia Beach, Virginia, to Visit, 50 Interesting & Fun Facts About Virginia State, Best Time to Visit Virginia Beach for Weather, Prices, and Crowds, 28 Fun Things to Do in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe? Stroll historic King Street, a walkable mile with more than 200 independentshopsandrestaurants, or take thefree King Street Trolleyand enjoy beautifully-preservedOld Townalong the way. At Escape Room Live Alexandria, you can tackle an escape game and use various clues and puzzles to attempt to solve the game and escape. Are you looking for things to do in Alexandria with toddlers? The beautiful 100 block of Prince Street, between S. Lee and S. Union, features a wide cobblestone street climbing a hill. Your clan will be in awe of the colossal statue of George Washington wearing his Masonic regalia. The Alexandria Fall Festival is back for its second year of family-friendly fun at River Farm on Sunday, November 5! Head to the floating visitor experience on Alexandrias waterfront to explore tall ship Providence, a replication of the first ship commissioned to the Continental Navy. The Dora Kelley Nature Park is an ideal place to go for a walk and enjoy the fresh air. Most of the commerce is sprinkled along a few walkable blocks of Mt. Old Town Alexandria is home to more than 100 independently owned boutiques, all in a walkable mile centered around King Street. Purchase aKey to the City museum passfor only $20and get access to 9 historic sites plus 40% off admission toGeorge Washingtons Mount Vernonand more. Bike and Roll is a fun and interactive biking and sightseeing tour. A new, state-of-the-art, go-to spot for any type of physical activity you could care to partake in. 1. Voted one of Travel + Leisure's Best Cities in the U.S. 2022 and a Cond Nast Traveler Top 5 Best Small City in the U.S. 2022, Alexandria boasts beautifully preserved historic architecture to enjoy on the 80 th Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour or along cobblestoned Captain's Row fit for the season with gas-lit lanterns and seasonal decor. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Washington National Harbor, 3000 Business Center DriveAlexandria, VA 22314(703) 746-3274Visit WebsiteOpen in Google Maps. Sign your children up to the classes in cartooning, ceramics, and clay animation. If you dont know what to do in Alexandria with kids, you could try this biking adventure. Located along the King Street Mile, AR Workshop is a must-visit attraction for arts and crafts enthusiasts. This beautiful and peaceful, if a bit solemn, corner of Alexandria is actually made up of several different historic graveyards right next to each other. In July, special events connect Harry Potter fans to these real-life potions. With its cobblestone streets, picturesque rowhouses from the 18th century and cozy restaurants, its no wonder Alexandria is known as the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Step into Harry Potters world by visiting the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. Old Town Courtesy of chasingmoments - Fotolia.com The spirit of George Washington lives on in the streets of Old Town Alexandria. See history come alive today! Rosebar Lounge Society Sunday Day Party Today 4:00 PM The Society Restaurant & Lounge THE FREE Brunch DC | AfroBeats ~ HipHop ~ Soca {SUNDAYS} Today 4:00 PM Decades DC 2023 Daily Tickets | Dumbarton Oaks Gardens Today 2:00 PM Dumbarton Oaks Gardens THE BEAUTIFUL ROOFTOP DAY PARTY Today 3:00 PM ZEBBIES GARDEN View 2 similar results Really nice and well maintained urban park. more. Heading to Washington DC to experience a dinner cruise along the Potomac River is a memorable evening activity. With so much history to celebrate and welcoming outdoor spaces to gather, Alexandria hosts some of the best festivals in Northern Virginia. The surrounding suburban area features several beautiful murals, playgrounds and other public spaces where friendly locals will always wave hello. At the museum, you can learn more about George Washington, masonry and those that built the structure, and much more. Fun Events for All Coming To Alexandria This Fall - The Zebra If you click on an affiliate link we provide, we may receive compensation. At the museum, you can learn more about the shop's history and see antique medical equipment. 11 Best Restaurants in Abingdon, VA Top-Rated Places to Eat! Today, the center provides space for over 80 local artists and hosts popular, kid-friendly events, workshops, and classes. Best Breakfast in Richmond, VA 20 Top Places. Unearth references to fiction and legends like Harry Potter and Knights Templar. By Heyimkass. Fun Activities & Games in Alexandria - Tripadvisor There are 18th-Century English Country dancing lessons that you can try today. Most fun & popular experiences in Alexandria See the Tiny Spite House, the Skinniest Historic House in America, 7. For anyone with COVID-19 concerns, this may not be the place for you. Snacks and meals are available, and with batting cages and mini-golf nearby, so be prepare for a full day of amusement park fun. It was $19 for my son and two adults on a weekend for 2 hours (no one enforces the time - another reason it probably gets crowded as the day goes on). Optional Add-Ons: Balloon package ($25) Whether you ride the wheel during the day, at sunset, or at night, you'll be able to take in beautiful views of Alexandria. You can also see many artifacts and visit the Watson Reading Room. Jul 17-21 2023. Rides to enjoy at the park include various roller coasters and kid-friendly amusements like a merry-go-round and spinning tea cups. Old Town was an early adopter of the escape room craze, and stills house two first-class escape room venues: Escape Room Live and EscapeQuest. During a trip, you'll find many fun things to do in Alexandria, VA! There are plenty of fun and free things to do in Alexandria, located just minutes from Washington, D.C.Give your wallet a rest as you relax with the sights and sounds of thewaterfrontor watch boats dock at the Marina while enjoying performances from local buskers. Roam through graveyards, stroll haunted neighborhoods and visit historic locationsknown for their eerie legends. This stream winds lazily through the west side of Alexandria, providing a beautiful and accessible forested walking trail from Dora Kelley Nature Park, with a nature center and frequent activities for kids, to All Veterans Park, with sunny trails, scenic overlooks and a dog run. If you're looking for a relaxed place to enjoy some drinks, head to Union Street Public House. Save money on your trip to Alexandria, Virginia with these special deals from Alexandria hotels, shops, restaurants, and attractions. Take the Mount Vernon by Bike and Boat tour. Port City Brewing Company is an excellent place to visit for a beer or two.