Old Town Alexandria

Lucky locals can be seen enjoying coffee and brunch at one of the neighborhood’s several sidewalk cafes.

Welcome to Old Town Alexandria

From cobblestone streets to contemporary nightlife.
 
Positioned at the banks of the Potomac River within the heart of town where cobblestones meet the contemporary, Old Town Alexandria is a charming spot for specialty shopping, dining, and culture. The past meets the present where holidays are celebrated within one of Virginia’s most famous historic districts and lucky locals can be seen enjoying coffee and brunch at one of the neighborhood’s several sidewalk cafes. 
 
As a whole, Alexandria boasts some of the most historically significant sites in the city, all of which played pivotal roles in the creation of the United States. Specific to the neighborhood, Old Town is home to Gadsby’s Tavern where the Founding Fathers frequently met in the years leading to American Independence, historic Jones Point Park, and many other fascinating sites. In Old Town, the past meets the present in perfect harmony.
 

What to Love

  • A charming mix of Colonial history and cosmopolitan culture
  • Home to several still-standing historic sites once frequented by the Founding Fathers
  • Dozens of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and other businesses line the popular King Street Mile
  • Located just across the Potomac River from central D.C.

Local Lifestyle

Life is celebrated every day in Old Town Alexandria. Throughout the year, locals look forward to a number of parades, art shows, and other festivities. Each night of the week, the riverfront is a vibrant experience, home to trendy eateries and bars, packed with all the sites, sounds, and aromas of a great night out. The several parks on the banks of the Potomac River are ideal for waterfront strolls, play dates with the kiddos, picnic lunches, or simply enjoying the scenery. At day’s end, locals retreat to stately Colonial manors, or one of the many luxurious condominium buildings recently built nearby, all of which feature stunning views and full-service amenities.
 

Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping

Alexandria Restaurant Partners is one of the city’s most successful collections of eateries, many of which are situated in the heart of Old Town. From Italian to burgers, to wine bars and new American favorites, this premier group of restaurateurs has established a reputation for creating some of the city’s go-to dining establishments. 
 
One of their most popular concepts is Ada’s on the River. This sophisticated waterfront eatery boasts a modern American menu of steaks, Atlantic coast seafood, oven-roasted chicken, and a popular weekend brunch served in a chic setting offering Potomac River views to patrons. The menu pairs well with their exceptional wine list and colorful offering of craft cocktails.
 
A romantic space is found at Landini Brothers, where Italian classics are savored in an exposed brick dining room or out on their streetside patio. Since 1979, Tuscan-style veal chops, linguini, and other pasta creations adorned with lobster, Italian sausage, and squid have made Landini Brothers one of Old Town’s best spots to enjoy a night out with a special someone.
 
Whiskey & Oyster is one of Old Town’s more laid-back spots specializing in comforting seafood favorites, also offering an extensive selection of whiskey. Fish and chips, lobster rolls, grilled oysters, and bourbon maple shrimp are just a few of their top items which locals have raved over, calling the menu “excellent,” “solid,” and stating they would return “in a heartbeat.”
 

Things To Do

Throughout the year, Old Town Alexandria celebrates holidays with an exciting array of celebrations and community gatherings. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the largest of its kind in the community, attracting thousands of attendees, while George Washington’s Birthday Celebration is another highly anticipated event celebrating the birthday of the first president. Fireworks, barbecue, and ice-cold beer can be enjoyed on the banks of the Potomac River every Fourth of July at one of the city’s favorite patriotic celebrations. As the weather cools down, locals look forward to Art on the Avenue. On the first Saturday of October each year, Mount Vernon Avenue comes alive to showcase work from some of the region’s most talented artists across many mediums. Ceramics, glassworks, digital art, and many other creations can all be found here. At year’s end, the Christmas Tree Lighting in front of City Hall marks the kick-off to the festive holiday season with bright, twinkling lights and a visit from Kris Kringle himself.
 

Schools

One of D.C.’s cultural hotspots is also home to great educational opportunities. A few fine options just blocks from the heart of the neighborhood consist of:
 
  • Commonwealth Academy, grades 3-12; CA offers unique, individual programs for students with ADHD or other learning disabilities, especially thanks to their 6:1 student-teacher ratio and small class sizes
  • Fusion Academy Alexandria, grades 6-12; this highly individualized educational option offers an unheard-of 1:1 student-teacher ratio in each classroom
 
 

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