The 44 best sights in Alexandria (2024)

The Alexandria waterfront is a picturesque and relaxing spot to visit with your loved one. There are numerous activities to enjoy here, from dining in restaurants on the riverfront to taking boat cruises and water taxis. The Old Town waterfront is known for its street performers who will entertained you while you dine.

Great place to walk around with friends or if you are on a date. There is parking nearby so you do not have to park very far however if it is busy then parking could be an issue. The waterfront has a great view and overall is a good place to hangout as there are more than a few restaurants nearby. Saw many people walking their dogs here so if you need a place to walk your dog and are nearby this is definitely an option as there is open space.

Muhammad Janjua — Google review

Beautiful area with boutique style shops and unique restaurants. I love to walk around this area and enjoy the crisp fall weather right now in October. There is a wonderful long walking path along the waterfront where you will be able to take a water taxi, ferry, or just enjoy the ducks that live along the shore.

Ellen Bryant — Google review

Highly recommend!!!! Whether you’re a local in the DMV or a visitor, old town is a spot you should definitely get to know. It’s the most adorable little town right by the water. The streets are very clean and the area is dog friendly and kid friendly. There are so many great places to dine with a variety of cuisines that cater to all!! Old town is right by on the Potomac and close by the Reagan National Airport so you get to see the planes fly overhead.

Sunny P — Google review

The Old Town Alexandria Waterfront is an absolute gem and a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike! This historic and charming waterfront area offers a delightful blend of picturesque views, rich history, and a vibrant atmosphere.The cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and waterfront promenade create a unique and enchanting ambiance. It's a joy to stroll along the Potomac River, taking in the stunning views and watching boats sail by. The numerous boutiques, galleries, and restaurants add to the allure, making it a perfect place for shopping and dining.The Torpedo Factory Art Center is a standout attraction, with its working studios and diverse art exhibits that showcase the talents of local artists.The Waterfront Park is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the greenery and waterfront breeze. The park's well-maintained gardens and scenic picnic spots make it a popular spot for families and friends.With its fascinating historical sites, lively events, and picturesque setting, the Old Town Alexandria Waterfront deserves a glowing 5-star review. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape or a vibrant cultural experience, this charming waterfront has something for everyone!

Sayak Das — Google review

I generally have a lot fun in new places n ferry travels. I enjoyed the travel. I think to explore the beauty and get vibe you need to walk a little before judging the area. It gives very old European, calmer nice vibe with good food options

Saira Anwar — Google review

Beautiful, clean, family friendly and, easy to walk along the waterfront. There are benches to sit and watch the birds, or people watch. The park on the day we walked had lots of families having picnics. However there was one homeless man with his tent, desk chair, lap top, and speakers set up! I wanted to take a photo, but didn't dare.The Torpedo Factory is right at the waterfront! It's a former torpedo factory, now a building with art studios and galleries, free to the public! Go and see local art and meet some of the artists! Support local art!The Waterfront here is truly relaxing. You can stop for a meal at one of the several restaurants here too.

eriko p — Google review

The waterfront is small but got a nice view and airplane sighing. A nice place for a walk. There's a restaurant on site. Mainly private and tour boats and water taxis. There is street parking but go for garage parking to save time looking for a spot.

John — Google review

Definitely a great place to stop and spend some time! Lots of restaurants and shops in the area and it's a very scenic area. It's a short (20 minute) walk to Jones Point Park, and it's right off King Street which is lined with great, unique restaurants and shops! If you're thinking about visiting Old Town, make sure you start here!

Mike W — Google review

Old Town Alexandria is a charming and historic gem located just minutes from Washington D.C. Its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and waterfront views create a picturesque setting that transports visitors back in time.Strolling through Old Town’s quaint streets lined with boutiques, galleries, and cafes is a delightful experience. The blend of historic buildings and modern amenities offers a unique shopping and dining experience for visitors of all ages.The waterfront area along the Potomac River adds to the allure of Old Town Alexandria. Here, visitors can enjoy scenic walks, waterfront dining, and even boat tours, providing a relaxing and scenic escape from the city bustle.Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, dining, or simply soaking in the ambiance of a historic town, Old Town Alexandria offers something for everyone. It’s a charming destination that captivates visitors with its timeless beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

Matias A — Google review

It’s a beautiful waterfront with breathtaking panoramic views of Georgetown, Washington DC and National Harbor and filled with endless list of entertainments.Restaurants with outdoor dining on the deck, Torpedo Factory Art Center, Alexandria Archeology Museum, turfs grass play park for families, outdoor picnic tables, farmers market, boardwalk deck and many more.If you walk to the streets, you’ll find more restaurants and local street entertainers who play music, magicians and even a traditional music instrument. Walk further to the Alexandria City Hall, hop on to the free King Street Trolley so you’ll experience more historic buildings in surroundings to the King St OldTown Metrorail station. Let’s be a tourist for a while and enjoy the ride!

preservefootprints — Google review

This small park along the waterfront is a delightful way to take in views of the Potomac and all Old Town Alexandria has to offer.There is room for outdoor activities, benches, art work, boats, historic signage, and much more. Plus you are surrounded by numerous restaurants, businesses, and other experiences.Everything was relatively clean and well maintained, except the trash cans which need emptying and cleaning.If you're in the city, you definitely need to stop here to take in a unique spot among the bustle of the world around you.

Zachary Hottel — Google review

Beautiful little park right by the water in Old Town. Good mix of open green spaces, seating, and shade. There are a variety of historical plaques and markers in the park as well.It can get crowded on the weekends, but there is still enough room to spread out and doesn’t feel overly crowded. It’s much quieter during the week. There is also no dedicated parking, so be prepared to park on the street and walk s few blocks.

Micah Walters — Google review

It was a breath of fresh air. People were so nice and welcoming. Very fur baby friendly. Met a wonderful couple celebrating 37 years of marriage at The Wharf. Didn't realize until we left that we were in a historic district. Wonderful place to visit.

Mona G — Google review

The Old Town Alexandria waterfront is a charming and picturesque destination along the Potomac River. Its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and waterfront views create a unique atmosphere. Strolling along the waterfront, you'll find a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and activities. Whether you're dining at a waterside restaurant, taking a scenic boat tour, or simply enjoying the view, it's a delightful spot to relax and soak in the historic and scenic beauty of Alexandria.

Hakan Akel — Google review

Where to start, Old Town Alexandria is a truly unique place rich with as much history as there is to do. There is not one defining place I'd suggest, but the waterfront boasts loads of waterfront dining, live music, boat rides, and views of the National Harbor. With weekly events, tours, and the Torpedo Factory Art Center, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Historic houses and parks adorn this truly historic waterfront and shopping the many boutique shops will help pass your time. I highly recommend it!

brian tafrawe — Google review

Great place for a walk. Plenty of families and dogs. You can probably see some boats and air planes flying overhead. No play grounds so keep a close eye on the kids, almost saw 2 or 3 go in the water.

Mike — Google review

This is another absolutely wonderful place to visit, est, and even shop for unique things. King Street is the main hub of activity, but don't miss some of the other places, sights and attractions on adjacent streets. Parking is available, but on busy days, it can be challenging. Best is go early! It's so picturesque throughout the year, and it's family oriented. Pet friendly too, with proprietors even placing water bowls out for pets. I'll get writer's cramp trying to explain every, so Google and other search engines are easy to use to discover so much about this historical part of the area!

Niccky C — Google review

Cute place by the waterfront with a historical feel. We found street parking free a few blocks inland and walked through the old town Alexandria streets that had a cute historical charm. There were a good mix of families with kids, couples, and tourists. Live music scattered throughout the streets by musicians playing different instruments.We enjoyed the nice little walk along the waterfront and recommend stopping by if you’re ever in the Alexandria area.We had a dinner appointment 5 minutes from the waterfront, so we came here after dinner on a summer evening.

Miriam Miriam — Google review

Nice place to hangout with friends and family or just chilling by yourself. Very happening during summer. Parking is a bit tricky here and you have to pay. Always carry a light jacket as riverside walk can make you cold. Good for kids.

AMELOLOGY — Google review

Even though it was cold - the place had amazing charm and serene.It's definitely a must visit on summer.Art gallery around is a must visit.

Imran Moosani — Google review

Old Town Alexandria's waterfront is a historic and vibrant area located along the Potomac River in Alexandria, Virginia. Steeped in history and charm, the waterfront offers a mix of colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and modern amenities. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, while enjoying views of the river and passing boats. The area also features parks, plazas, and outdoor seating areas, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the ambiance. Additionally, visitors can explore historic sites such as the Torpedo Factory Art Center, which houses galleries and studios, and the Alexandria Archaeology Museum, showcasing artifacts from the city's past. The Old Town Alexandria waterfront is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a delightful blend of history, culture, and waterfront charm.

Ranadeep Mukherjee — Google review

Very nice, but a little cold in March. Would be fantastic in warmer weather. Plenty of great restaurants around too.

Bryan Monaco — Google review

I LOVE THIS PLACE.One of the best places in NOVA for a walk in day or night, having food at restaurants by the water, and more fun. There are many boats parked there and many restaurants by the river. There is a little park, best place for kids and pets to walk around, but be careful of kids near river. The streets around look like you're in a hostoric place (historic old town, lol) or kinda Europe!

Alex A — Google review

Old Town Alexandria was absolutely amazing!On the weekends you can park for free roadside. Then you walk into the Old Town Alexandria Area to patio Restaurant eating, Street dancing, guitarist playing in the street, loud jazz music entertaining sightseers and passers by, you had your salsa dancing in the street, lots of pedestrians walking in the middle of the street and entered entertaining and enjoying entertainment going on around them. There was probably a total of five or six beautiful wonderful ice cream shops that look quite delightful.Several shops of all kinds of antiques, clothing, shoes different apparel jewelry that were storefront, various restaurants and bars from your three star restaurant and bar to your five-star restaurant and bar, as you approach the pier it was just absolutely beautiful the water and seeing all of the boats, there's a lot of entertainment activity going on all around you and the short area where the water is.There was a DJ playing in the middle right before the water that was entertaining everyone.You can bring your family down and enjoy a picnic order food they were individuals also with our laptops up and doing some work. The Ducks were very friendly and they would be coming right up to you to be fed. It was absolutely beautiful, calming and peaceful! Wonderful family atmosphere perfect for date night and just getting out and taking it easy. A great place for a girls night for dinner and a good time. Great safe walking environment for family and friends.I thoroughly enjoyed myself I am in town visiting and this is some place I will definitely come back to. I enjoyed myself in the Tranquility of it all. Parking can be a hassle, because it is a very busy area and you will need to find parking on a street around near you. You will pay meters if you park during the week but on the weekend you can park dang near for free I think it's like $1.50 for 2 hours or something of that nature.

Theda Jenkins — Google review

The lively and never disappointing farmers market in the King St Square on Saturdays is the oldest farmers market in the United States. #factsA few blocks away down the cobblestone streets is the waterfront that overlooks the Potomac and gives views of the National Harbor.What a great walk in any season. There's often times live music and art displays in the Waterfront Park. I love coming here, to relax, exercise, eat, shop and enjoy nature "Old Town" style.

Shavonta Green — Google review

The 44 best sights in Alexandria (2024)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: The Hon. Margery Christiansen

Last Updated:

Views: 5718

Rating: 5 / 5 (70 voted)

Reviews: 93% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: The Hon. Margery Christiansen

Birthday: 2000-07-07

Address: 5050 Breitenberg Knoll, New Robert, MI 45409

Phone: +2556892639372

Job: Investor Mining Engineer

Hobby: Sketching, Cosplaying, Glassblowing, Genealogy, Crocheting, Archery, Skateboarding

Introduction: My name is The Hon. Margery Christiansen, I am a bright, adorable, precious, inexpensive, gorgeous, comfortable, happy person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.