Whether you’re planning to spend a long weekend or a short day trip from Washing, DC, you are in for an unforgettable experience visiting some of the top sights in Old Town Alexandria.
One of the oldest cities in the US, Old Town Alexandria, sits on the Potomac River’s shores, offering the National Harbor views. A nationally designated historic city, founded in 1749, which George Washington called his home. The best way to unlock Alexandria’s rich history and culture is with our list of Top Sights in Old Town Alexandria.
1. Torpedo Factory Art Center
What’s cooler than an art center in a Torpedo Factory? Navy built the Torpedo Factory after World War I and used it to store torpedoes until needed. Today, after many revisions and updates, the Torpedo Factory Art Center is home to more than 150 professional artists. Moreover, the Torpedo Factory Art Center also offers summer camp for kids, and families on vacations can participate.
You can find the Torpedo Factory Art Center at 105 N Union St, Alexandria, VA 22314. Click here for directions.
2. Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon more than just the historic home of George Washington. It houses an interactive museum, onsite demonstration, and a family farm. With its charm and beauty, Mount Vernon is one of the top sights you can visit in Old Town Alexandria. Further, you can easily spend a day here or maybe two.
You can find Mount Vernon at 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mt Vernon, VA 22121. Click here for directions.
3. Spite House
If you have kids, well, they will love Spite House. However, this private residency isn’t open for tours but is famous for the Skinniest house in America. Besides, it’s only 7 feet. Spite House was built by John Hollensbury in 1830 to keep unwanted people away from his property. Still, the house is trendy, making its way on the list of the top sights in Old Town Alexandria.
You can find Spite House at 523 Queen St, Alexandria, VA 22314. Click here for directions.
4. Carlyle House
Carlyle House is undoubtedly one of the oldest homes in the United States. With its rich history that includes its use by the Union Soldiers during the Civil War. Interestingly, this home is one the National Register of Historic places, which makes it a must-visit. Apart from this, Carlyle House is only open from Tuesday to Sunday with an admission fee for people over age 5.
You can find Carlyle House at 121 N Fairfax St, Alexandria, VA 22314. Click here for directions.
5. George Washington Masonic Memorial
This memorial reminds of George Washington’s Masonic fraternity that puts faith in the principles of religious and civil liberties. Besides, George Washington Masonic Memorial offers five free tours daily that includes stories about the Nation’s first President, his Masonic heritage, and American history. You will get a close view of the 17 feet tall bronze statue of George Washington and an excellent collection of artifacts along the tour.
You can find George Washington Masonic Memorial at 101 Callahan Dr, Alexandria, VA 22301. Click here for directions.
6. Gadsby Tavern Museum
Gadsby Tavern Museum includes the 1785 tavern and the 1792 city hotel. Moreover, this was a social hub for prominent citizens, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison. They came here for meetings, social gatherings, and town balls. Interestingly, President Washington used to stop here a bit before going to Mount Vernon.
You can find Gadsby Tavern Museum at 134 N Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314. Click here for directions.
