Welcome to Old Town Alexandria
Few areas in and around D.C. and Northern Virginia can match the charm, history, and relative quiet of Old Town Alexandria. Certainly, the enclave's historic district centered around King Street and running along the Potomac draws a healthy stream of tourists. Extend out a few blocks, though, and the residential portion of Old Town may very well be one of the top spots to live in metro D.C.
Brick sidewalks, cobblestone streets, and distinctive vintage row homes attract attention, but Old Town is also a thriving little burg with small-town sensibility. The whole area is immensely walkable, even beyond the historic town center, with commercial districts and green space dotting the neighborhood.
Two Metro stations help make Old Town extremely accessible to the remainder of Alexandria, Arlington, and D.C. The immediate proximity of The Beltway, forming the neighborhood's southern border, aids those who prefer commuting by car.
What to Love
- Inviting, walkable community in a gorgeous riverfront setting
- Old Town's well-preserved historical district
- Artistic, laid-back, small-town vibe
- Great location with easy access to Arlington and D.C.
People & Lifestyle
There's no need to be a history buff to enjoy the lifestyle offered by the humble small-town environs of Old Town Alexandria, although an appreciation for the past certainly doesn't hurt.
With its quiet, picturesque streets and low-key lifestyle, Old Town represents an area where residents lay down deep roots. Add in the neighborhood's walkability, many green spaces, and proximity to good schools, it proves most ideal for young families.
Old Town, however, is also extremely accessible. Two Metro stations sit along its western edge, and The Beltway forms the community's southern border. Arlington, D.C., Crystal City (home of Amazon's HQ2), and Reagan International Airport are all close. It’s a perfect landing spot for professionals who prefer to spend their non-working hours somewhere teeming with charm and personality.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
For Old Town's best shopping and dining experience, there's no better place than the historic mile-long King Street and the surrounding blocks along the Potomac waterfront. Home to more independent boutiques than anywhere else in the region—over 40 non-chain stores—there are also well-known brands such as LuLuLemon and H&M.
When it's time to break from shopping, some of Old Town's most notable eateries include Gadsby's Tavern, Vola's Dockside Grill, and Riverside Taco Company. For one of Alexandria's best steakhouse experiences, visit Oak Steakhouse in North Old Town.
More than just a well-traversed tourist area, Old Town is also an artistic enclave with a close-knit creative community. One of the best examples of this, and a highlight of any visit to Old Town, is a trip to the Torpedo Factory Art Center. A former munitions factory, this artist collective features 82 working artist studios and seven galleries. It's the perfect environment to browse, purchase, or commission art.
Things to Do
With two centuries of heritage as a backdrop, Old Town is the perfect spot to take in a festival or two. Several of the area's most popular celebrations include the Old Town Art Festival held each September and the Portside in Old Town Fall Festival a month later.
Dual birthdays are celebrated the second weekend in July—the United States and Alexandria—with fireworks and a performance from the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra. The Campagna Center Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend opens the holiday season in Old Town with a parade and holiday home tour.
Make time for the Old Town Farmers Market, the oldest such market to be held continuously in the same spot in the country.
Schools
Old Town Alexandria is home to a number of excellent schools. Some of the most celebrated educational opportunities include:
