Alexandria

Day Trips

Start your day with a stroll through the cobbled streets of Old Town Alexandria, where historic charm meets scenic waterfront views. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, featuring pastries and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Don't forget to visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center to see local artists at work.

Spend the afternoon visiting the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, an impressive monument with stunning city views from its observation deck. For a leisurely lunch, choose from one of the many eateries along King Street, offering everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Afterward, explore the unique shops and boutiques that line the streets, perfect for finding souvenirs and local crafts.

As the sun sets, head to the waterfront for a delightful dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh catches and picturesque views of the Potomac River. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the docks and soak in the vibrant atmosphere or catch a performance at the historic Alexandria Civic Theatre. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the rich history and culture you've experienced.

Begin your day by visiting the Alexandria National Cemetery, where you can pay your respects and learn about the Civil War's impact on the region. Following this solemn experience, have breakfast at a nearby café that offers a classic American menu to fuel your day. Make your way to the Lyceum, Alexandria’s History Museum, where the exhibits will give you deeper insight into the city's storied past.

Spend the afternoon at Fort Ward Park, where you can explore the remnants of a Civil War fort and enjoy a picnic lunch with views of the surrounding greenery. Take some time to walk through the interpretive trails and read about the historical significance of the site. After the park, visit the Carlyle House Historic Park to learn about its connection to George Washington's family and the history of colonial Alexandria.

For dinner, choose a restaurant that offers a taste of gourmet Southern cuisine, celebrating the flavors of the region. After dinner, immerse yourself in the nightlife along King Street, with options ranging from jazz clubs to quiet wine bars. As the evening winds down, consider taking a ghost tour to explore the haunted tales and mysterious legends that are part of Alexandria’s past.

Kick off your art-inspired day at the Alexandria Arts Alliance, where local art is showcased and you can sometimes catch artists in action. Relish a leisurely breakfast at a chic café nearby, soaking in the creative vibes that define the area. Then, head to the Birchmere for a morning performance or workshop if available, to experience local music talent.

Dedicate your afternoon to visiting the Alexandria Black History Museum, which sheds light on the African American experience in Virginia. After this enlightening experience, enjoy lunch at a soul food restaurant, savoring dishes that highlight the local culinary heritage. Take a leisurely walk along the Potomac River, enjoying the views of historical sites and waterfront parks.

For dinner, experience fine dining at a local bistro that celebrates seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Post-dinner, attend a live performance at the epicenter of Alexandria’s arts scene, the Old Town Hall, featuring everything from theater to jazz. End the evening with a night stroll to admire the beautiful, historic homes illuminated under the moonlight.

Begin your day with a refreshing walk at the scenic Great Falls Park, where the stunning waterfalls and natural beauty will invigorate your spirit. Stop at a local breakfast spot for a hearty meal before venturing into the park. Warm up in the morning sun while you explore the various trails and scenic views.

After enjoying nature’s splendor, head back to Alexandria for a serene afternoon at the Historic Old Town Waterfront, enjoying the colorful boats and vibrant waterfront community. Take a relaxing lunch at a riverside restaurant, savoring the fresh air and view of the water. Spend the rest of your afternoon visiting the various outdoor markets, where you can find local produce and handmade goods.

For dinner, treat yourself to an elegant dining experience at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying the beautiful sunset over the Potomac. Following dinner, consider a sunset cruise along the river, where you can admire the skyline from the water. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk back along the waterfront, absorbing the tranquility of the riverside and the charm of Old Town.

Kick off your family fun day with breakfast at a kid-friendly diner, where pancakes and smiles abound. Spend the morning at the Alexandria Zoo, where you can see exotic animals and learn about wildlife conservation. Let the kids play at the adjacent park’s playground, allowing for some great outdoor fun.

After lunch at a family-friendly restaurant, head to the Discovery Time Museum, offering interactive exhibits that cater to kids of all ages. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring new and exciting concepts through play. Before heading out, stop by the adjoining ice cream shop for a sweet treat to cool off.

For dinner, explore local options that have a fun, family-friendly vibe, possibly with cartoon-themed decor. Afterward, catch a movie at a nearby theater or participate in a family game night at a local arcade, filled with games and laughter. End your day with a night’s rest, reminiscing about the fun-filled activities shared together.

Start your day off with a food tour that showcases the best breakfast spots in Old Town, sampling local favorites like bagels, coffee, and pastries. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and vibrant energy as you learn about Alexandria’s culinary scene. Explore the local farmers' market for fresh ingredients and local produce.

After your morning food exploration, join a cooking class where a local chef will teach you how to prepare traditional Virginian dishes. Enjoy lunch that you've prepared while learning about the combination of flavors used in local cuisine. Spend the afternoon visiting specialty food shops, tasting artisanal cheeses, and locally made chocolates.

For dinner, indulge in a multi-course meal at a renowned restaurant known for its innovative takes on Southern classics. Following dinner, make your way to a food and wine pairing event at a local winery to expand your palate. Finish the night with an after-dinner drink at a craft cocktail bar, celebrating the end of a day filled with culinary delights.

Begin your shopping day with a visit to the boutique shops along King Street, where local artisans and designers showcase their creations. Stop for breakfast at a trendy café that features locally sourced ingredients for a refreshing meal. Take your time browsing through unique gifts and art pieces, making this a leisurely and enjoyable experience.

After shopping, enjoy lunch at a charming bistro that highlights the seasonal menu of local products. Continue your afternoon with a visit to the Potomac Yard Center, where larger retailers and entertainment options await you. Take a break at one of the parks in the area, where you can unwind and refresh.

For your evening, make a reservation at a renowned restaurant that offers a luxurious dining experience in a historic setting. Following dinner, consider catching a live performance at the nearby Alexandria Black History Museum or an art show at the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll around Old Town, soak in the nighttime ambiance, and reflect on a day well spent.

Begin by visiting the Mount Vernon, George Washington’s estate, located just a short drive from Alexandria, exploring the beautiful grounds and museum. Have breakfast at the estate’s café, where historical influences are reflected in both the decor and the menu. Spend your morning learning about the life and times of the first President of the United States.

Return to Alexandria for a guided walking tour exploring significant historical landmarks, including the historic Christ Church and Gadsby's Tavern Museum. Enjoy lunch at a café known for a historical twist on local dishes, immersing yourself further in the area's history. After lunch, visit the Alexandria Archaeology Museum to delve into the city's rich archaeological history.

For dinner, choose a restaurant that offers dishes unique to the region, possibly exploring a historical recipe. Cap your night off with a ghost tour, where haunting legends of Alexandria are recounted on a spooky stroll through the charming streets. Let the stories and history echo in your mind as you drift off to sleep, thankful for the day’s rich experiences.

Start your day with breakfast at a waterfront café, where you can enjoy fresh, local seafood and stunning views of the Potomac River. Afterward, rent a kayak or paddleboard for an adventurous morning on the water, getting a unique perspective of Alexandria from the river. Be sure to keep your camera handy for some amazing photo ops!

After your water activities, enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant featuring a varied menu with fresh ingredients sourced from local farms. Spend your afternoon exploring the National Harbor, which is just a short drive away, offering shopping and entertainment along with beautiful views of the water. Explore the sights and indulge your senses as you take in the atmosphere of this bustling area.

For dinner, experience a gourmet meal on a boat cruise along the Potomac, where you can take in the skyline and enjoy a fresh, seasonal menu prepared onboard. Following dinner, enjoy some time at the waterfront's local breweries, where you can sample handcrafted beers with a view. Wind down with a moonlit stroll along the river, appreciating the peaceful ambiance of the evening.