History & Museums

Alexandria’s preservation of its colonial past is an undeniable draw for all age groups. With major sites, like the George Washington Masonic Memorial, people can experience some of the most eventful monuments in our nation's history. The Carlyle House, which once belonged to one of the most prestigious Virginian families, allows you to interact in Colonial life, as does the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum or the Gadsbys Tavern Museum, which was frequented by George Washington.

The Berg is also a historic neighborhood in Old Town, rich with Civil War history. The Old Town area is a don’t-miss filled with shops, restaurants, a kid-friendly scavenger hunt and historic attractions.

If you want an overall history of the city and the D.C. metro area, you can cruise the Potomac River, or lace up your shoes for a walking tour.

Arts and Entertainment

A top art destination by AmericanStyle magazine, the city is home to attractions like the world renowned Torpedo Factory Art Center in Old Town, complete with six eclectic galleries and more than 40 works of art. Also, the Art League is the largest and oldest nonprofit organization service for artists.

Old Town's nightlife and entertainment contributes as well. See a show after eating at one of the bars or restaurants at the Little Alexandria Theater. The venue has hosted musicals and plays such as Sweeney Todd.

Theaters and live music are also scattered throughout the town. The legendary Birchmere Concert Hall in Alexandria is the stage to check out big musical acts, such as Dave Matthews Band. In Seminary West, the Alexandria Symphony and Orchestra performs at Northern Virginia Community College’s Schlesinger Center Concert Hall.

Festivals and Events

Alexandria and nearby Washington D.C. are home to several festivals and events. Art on the Avenue in Del Ray rakes in tons of visitors each year for local art, music and trinkets. Other festivals include: the King Street Festival of Arts, Mt. Vernon July 4th celebration, and holiday and specialty events such as the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, which has been an Alexandria tradition for more than 40 years.

Check out Alexandria's outdoor activities.