Some stalls offer cheap family-fun the youngins will adore. Your youths will delight in this fun way to get around Old Town Alexandria. And after a day of sweating it out, cool down in the yoga class. Mediums of art to see range from paintings and drawings to stained glass works and jewelry. 2023 Alexandria Fall Festival - Eventbrite and 200+ locally-owned restaurants and boutiques. Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Museums Sights & Landmarks Spas & Wellness Fun & Games Nightlife Traveler rating & up Neighborhoods Old Town Eisenhower East Good for Good for a Rainy Day Budget-friendly Good for Couples Free Entry Source: Fairfax County Parks #1 Huntley Meadows Park Some of the links in articles may be affiliate links where we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. One of the most fascinating attractions in Alexandria is the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. Located in Northern Virginia, Alexandria is an exciting place to visit that's about 20 minutes outside Washington DC. Hummingbird by James Beard nominee chef Cathal Armstrong offers clambakes, crab boils and oyster roasts. Old Town was an early adopter of the escape room craze, and stills house two first-class escape room venues: Escape Room Live and EscapeQuest. Browse one-of-a-kind finds in the Shop Small destination of the D.C. region. These places are best for fun & games in Alexandria: These are the best places for kid-friendly fun & games in Alexandria: These are the best places for couples seeking fun & games in Alexandria: These are the best places for groups seeking fun & games in Alexandria: THE 10 BEST Alexandria Fun Activities & Games, Booking and check-in was easy, the new room Pitfall was a ton of. Read more articles about the United States: More visual stories related to this article: allisewell Feedback Take the Mount Vernon by Bike and Boat tour. There are 18th-Century English Country dancing lessons that you can try today. Decadent desserts, such as peanut butter and chocolate icebox pie or flourless chocolate cake, are also on offer. Snag a table at the laid-back patio ofVirtue Feed & Grain, an American tavern located in an 1800s feed house located steps from the waterfront. It actually sits right on the main highway near the commercial shopping, restaurants and gas stations. Visitors can escape the elements and embrace hours of good times. Things To Do From Our Partners T Free King Street Trolley Ride in style and explore King Street via the city's most convenient mode of transportation. Dont worry about the return trip because your squad will get to relax on the boat ride back. Roam through graveyards, stroll haunted neighborhoods and visit historic locationsknown for their eerie legends. Her otters, black cats, bunnies, pandas, etc. Things To Do In Fairfax County, VA. There is the Harry Potter-themed tour that tackles real science in fiction. It now showcases a vast array of old-fashioned medical serums, equipment and documents in charming displays that will make you feel like youre in a 19th century pharmacy, waiting for your laudanum or leeches. time could be split between each of our 2 arenas or both arenas could be open at the same time. Unearth references to fiction and legends like Harry Potter and Knights Templar. Hop on and off this seemingly never-ending trail that enters Alexandria from Arlington, wends its way along the river and continues into the idyllic Belle Haven Park with its bird sanctuary and wildlife preserve. AR Workshop Alexandria 4.5 (22 reviews) Art Classes Venues & Event Spaces Team Building Activities Old Town Alexandria There are several options to tour and travel the Potomac River from Old Town Alexandria. Another can't-miss museum in the city is the Alexandria Black History Museum. Camps | City of Alexandria, VA Tip: Manumission Tour Company offers highly-rated tours including Freedoms Fight, which provide a well-informed and engrossing journey through Alexandrias role in the institution of slavery and the struggle for black equality. The trolley allows all ages to come on board. 11. Heading to Washington DC to experience a dinner cruise along the Potomac River is a memorable evening activity. Stay in close proximity to the Potomac River. Kids activities Richmond Stuff to do near me Arlington For Kids Theme Parks Near me Virginia Zoos In Maryland Waterparks In West Virginia Indoor Play Kids fun in Kentucky City Tours In North Carolina Theme Parks Near Me in Virginia Beach Zoos Near Me in Norfolk Museums And Attraction in Williamsburg Historical Attractions Near Me Richmond Allow time to wander the streets and you'll see a range of home styles, lovely gardens, brick sidewalks, and beautifully decorated doorways. Rumor is that George Washington sold his produce here. Nearly 18 miles long, theMount Vernon Trailstretches fromGeorge Washingtons Mount Vernon Estatein Alexandria alongside the scenic Potomac River to the national monuments and memorials in Washington, D.C. A favorite among runners and cyclists, the trail is one of the most popular sections of the 3,000-mileEast Coast Greenway that extends from Maine to Florida. Check our event articles, including monthly event listings, and the Visit Alexandria calendar. There's no fee to used the park or playground, Park has summer flash area during the summer. At the museum, you can learn more about the shop's history and see antique medical equipment. Things to Do in Alexandria VA | Popular Attractions & Museums This is also a great spot for lunch, with a variety of local chains and international cuisine options. Tasks include maintaining the beacon light, the building, and shipping and weather data. During a trip, you'll find many fun things to do in Alexandria, VA! This is a wide, popular trail for casual outdoor walks as well as serious running and cycling training, with many areas to stop and gaze at the water, play a game of fetch with the dog, or sit down for a picnic. Vernon Ave. Indulge your love of dairy with lunch at Cheesetique followed by a tasty ice cream cone from The Dairy Godmother. It is not a destination but worth the time if staying in the area. Jul 24-28 2023. There are over 15,000 objects in the museums collection. It was a blast! 1-hour use of the soft play room; 2-hour use of a party room; $149 for ages 0-5, max 16 people (adults free) Locations: Charles Houston Recreation Center 703.746.5552. Hike to a waterfall at Scott's Run Nature Preserve. I've worked with climbing guides at a several top climbing destinations in the US and can say that working with SportRock was absolutely first class. 1. Whether you ride the wheel during the day, at sunset, or at night, you'll be able to take in beautiful views of Alexandria. Gadsby's is both museum and restaurant, and it preserves the atmosphere once enjoyed by George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and other notable Amiercans. In addition, you can visit the Norma Hoffman Visitor Center, which has educational exhibits about the park and its ecology. Top 18 Things to Do in Old Town, Alexandria, Va At Huntley Meadows Park, an easy, wheelchair-accessible trail leads visitors through the woods and onto boardwalks over unique wetlands. Hop on the ferry at the Old Town Harbor for a scenic minute trip to more fun at Marylands hotel and casino center near National Harbor. You can also reach much of the same scenery and history from the paved 18-mile Mount Vernon Trail. Yes someone else painting will look better then yours. The tavern was named after Englishman John Gadsby. There are five well-stocked seasonal farmers markets around the region, including the Old Town farmers market, the oldest market in the nation that has been held in the same site. With its cobblestone streets, picturesque rowhouses from the 18th century and cozy restaurants, its no wonder Alexandria is known as the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Urban Evolution started as a Parkour gym. Alexandria is bordered by Route 395, 495, and the Potomac River. June Events in Northern Virginia and Festivals Near DC - Fun in Fairfax VA 12 Fun Things to Do in Alexandria with Kids (for 2023) If you'd rather ride, there are trolley tours available. For anyone with COVID-19 concerns, this may not be the place for you. Find a tour on the Visit Alexandria website. We got out with 1 minute to spare. Great communication/organization leading up to the trip, great logistical planning during the experience, highly skilled AMGA certified guide, route difficulty was well calibrated to my level of skill/experience, excellent approach to teaching, and beautiful locations to boot! 7. Get Air Trampoline Park. If you make a purchase after clicking one of those links we will receive a small commission. The park also has a wooden art area that are great to see with family. At just 7 feet wide, the skinniest historic house in the US is also one of the most Instagrammable places in Alexandria. Welcome aboard one of the convenient ways to visit Old Town Alexandria. On the same day as the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade during Biggest Holiday Weekend, Old Town Alexandria's waterfront will shine for the 22 nd Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights sponsored by Amazon on December 3, 2022, at 5:30 p.m. as more than 50 brightly lit boats cruise along one mile of the Potomac River shoreline. Fun Activities & Games in Alexandria - Tripadvisor The newly renovated National Inventors Hall of Fame is located on the United States Patent and Trademark Office campus in Shiloh Baptist Church has been pointing souls to a better religious, social, and economic life since its beginning in 1863. Continuing south along the water, stop at Ford's Landing Park to learn more about Alexandria's history. Take advantage of fall festival season with plenty of outdoor options. On weekends year-round, thePotomac Riverboat water taxiferries visitors toNational Harborand the DC Wharf. Unearth references to fiction and legends like Harry Potter and Knights Templar. As they fade, late-blooming Kwanzan trees take over, followed by Redbuds and Apple blossoms. This is a one-of-a-kind artistic space, and one of the centers of the art world for the metropolitan area. We took our teen daughters ice skating and then walked around and finished in two hours. Visitors can explore the area on foot or hop between Old Town attractions on the free King Street Trolley. All Rights Reserved. It was super crowded (we arrived at 2pm) and the majority of kids do not wear masks (even some adults not in the eating section werent wearing their mask). Buying tickets online is best to avoid possible delays at the ticket kiosk. 30 Fun Things to Do in Alexandria, VA - Destguides Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Experience 18th-century life in this mansion. A private residence located at 523 Queen Street, Spite House was built out of spite in 1830 to keep loiterers out of disgruntled owner John Hollensburys adjacent alley. Along with the pretty gardens, you can see historical buildings, including those from the 18th and 19th centuries. Alexandria is a city that predates the American Revolution and is steeped in history. One of the best things to do in Alexandria with kids involves viewing and making art. The street is a popular backdrop for photographers and Instagrammers. FREE! The Torpedo Factory Art Center fosters connections among artists and the public to ignite the creative spirit. Step into Harry Potters world by visiting the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. 14. Snacks and meals are available, and with batting cages and mini-golf nearby, so be prepare for a full day of amusement park fun. If you enjoy finding outstanding eateries, going on a food tour is definitely one of the most memorable things to do in Alexandria, VA! Recommended Hotel Nearby: MGM National Harbor, 4301 West Braddock RdAlexandria, VA 22304(703) 746-4848Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. Get Lost in Alexandrias Architectural Wonder, 9. Sample the creative brews at Aslin Beer Co. and continue your craft beverage tour by checking outLost Boy Cider, Northern Virginias first urban cidery. This stone Georgian mansion was built in the 1750s, and stands today as a museum of the fascinating events that occurred here and in other historic homes throughout Alexandria. Don Taco: a taqueria with 14 delicious varieties of tacos, as well as empanadas, churros, tortilla soup, and ceviche. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Washington National Harbor, 3000 Business Center DriveAlexandria, VA 22314(703) 746-3274Visit WebsiteOpen in Google Maps. Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities. It makes a lot of stops by historical sites, restaurants, and attractions. Located in Northern Virginia, Alexandria is an exciting place to visit that's about 20 minutes outside Washington DC. There's also a museum that showcases artworks and exhibits on local ecology. Even though there are no official "kids activities" here, it's an exciting and fun area. Just north of the Tall Ship Providence, Founders Park hosts community events and is another nice spot for a picnic. Things to Do with Kids in Alexandria VA | Museums, Parks & Tours 21 Free Things to Do in Alexandria VA | SheBuysTravel The trolley operates year-round and runs every 15 minutes. The surrounding park exhibits provide more historical context on the native people and European settlers of the area, as well as sport and recreation grounds. There are art courses for children and adults alike. Highly recommend. Activities range from biking along the Mount Vernon Trail or wandering around Green Spring Gardens to going on a memorable Potomac River dinner cruise from DC. At the garden and farm, you can learn about the history of the farmland and see farm animals. The guide teaches about the sites, history, and stories of the locations while biking. Theres always room for dessert in Alexandria with ice cream shops, cupcakeries and chocolate shops lining King Street. Often thought of as a country and rock venue, this casual and friendly space actually showcases music of every genre, along with dance, comedy and other entertainment spectacles. This lovely farmhouse that used to belong to George Washington is now home to the American Horticultural Society, a group dedicated to making gardens sustainable and accessible to all Americans. Voted one of Travel + Leisure's Best Cities in the U.S. 2022 and a Cond Nast Traveler Top 5 Best Small City in the U.S. 2022, Alexandria boasts beautifully preserved historic architecture to enjoy on the 80 th Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour or along cobblestoned Captain's Row fit for the season with gas-lit lanterns and seasonal decor. This historic apothecary was founded in 1792 operated continuously until 1933 when it was preserved as a museum. Centuries-old architecture, brick-lined streets, cobblestone alleys and a canopy of twinkling lights during the holidays make strolling King Street the #1 thing to do in Alexandria. Here they will have the freedom to create their masterpieces or become the next Picasso. Fort Ward Park is an earthen fort that was built in the defense of Washington, D.C. during the Civil War. Today, the center provides space for over 80 local artists and hosts popular, kid-friendly events, workshops, and classes. 15 Best Things to Do in Alexandria for First-Time Visitors Get Air Trampoline Park is a fun zone for kids and adults of all ages. At Escape Room Live Alexandria, you can tackle an escape game and use various clues and puzzles to attempt to solve the game and escape. My son wore his mask the whole time and basically stayed where it was less chaotic so we were comfortable with the situation. Find everything from designer shoes to exquisite vintage cocktail ware to home dcor. Huntley Meadows Park is another excellent outdoor attraction to visit in Alexandria. This stream winds lazily through the west side of Alexandria, providing a beautiful and accessible forested walking trail from Dora Kelley Nature Park, with a nature center and frequent activities for kids, to All Veterans Park, with sunny trails, scenic overlooks and a dog run. Alexandria may be one of the smaller areas in Northern Virginia, but the historic waterfront city is a bustling hub of dining, arts and culture with a number of exciting activities for any visitor, regardless of their tastes. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Alexandria - 2023 (with Photos Listen as the trolleys captain informs passengers about the places they can visit at each stop. The city's favorite brewery creates an excellent line-up of craft beer, including 7 flagships and a long list of specialty and seasonal brews. Going to Six Flags America is one of the most fun things to do near Alexandria, VA! 1. Let your child get creative without worrying about the mess. 25 Best Restaurants in Richmond, VA Top-Rated Places to Eat! And after a mornings worth of sport, the fields are great for having a picnic with a baby. A beautiful spot of peace and quiet right on the water in Old Town Alexandria. Once a busy port, Alexandria is blessed with an attractive and welcoming area along the Potomac River. 15 Best Restaurants in Reston, VA Top-Rated Places to Eat! The trail winds through Shipyard Park, just south of the central waterfront. The lighthouse operated from 1856 to 1926. Murphys Grand Irish Pub, Village Brauhaus, Port City Brewing, The Light Horse, Don Taco, and Virtue Feed and Grain are just a few of the seemingly endless selection of local-favorite pubs along this road. The museum is located within a historic apothecary shop that opened in 1775 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. There are Virginia festivals devoted to spring flowers, summer carnivals, arts and crafts, animals and farms, holiday lights, food, beer, wine, history, and so much more. Fun Things to Do in Northern Virginia - Fairfax, VA Activities & Events 25 Adventurous Epic Things to do in Alexandria, VA - DC Travel Magazine Did you know this is one of four alley houses in Old Town Alexandria? The park also has a wooden You are welcome to bring your own bottle. The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is one of the must-see attractions in Alexandria, Virginia. My son is a little over 2 so I got a little nervous when he went to the bigger kid area because parents cant enter that section. Founded in 1749, Alexandrias haunted history comes to life on one of many ghost tours led by a lantern-carrying costumed guide. Best of all, it is one of the free kid-friendly things to do. Notably, this activity is one of the best date ideas in Washington DC and the surrounding area to enjoy with your partner. The Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities offers diverse and fun filled camp programs for youth ages 2-17. Here are thecant-miss Alexandria experiences to add to your itinerary. If you need more cute animals and beautiful hand painted pottery in your life, Tracie Griffith Tsos studio at Torpedo Factory is the place to be. The park grounds are suitable for all ages when there are no reenactments. Copyright Family Destinations Guide 2023. The tall-ship Providence, which sits on the waterfront off Cameron Street, is an accurate reproduction of John Paul Jones Revolutionary warship. Performing arts. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Alexandria West/Mark Center. Destguides may receive commissions from purchases made through affiliate links in this article. Youll learn a lot about the nations first leader and the august organization to which he belonged. You can see the other three alley houses at: Cobblestone streets were once the norm in Old Town and that history is preserved on Captain's Row. Below are just a few of our favorite things to do in Alexandria, VA, whether you are just visiting or a long-time residents. Many of the most popular shops line the King Street mile, including national chains and the largest collection of unique boutiques in the DC area. See Art in Action at a Former Torpedo Factory, 6. Prominent patrons included George and Martha Washington, and Thomas Jefferson. Head to the floating visitor experience on Alexandrias waterfront to explore tall ship Providence, a replication of the first ship commissioned to the Continental Navy. Check the Torpedo Factory calendar for special happenings like late night events and new exhibit openings. Old Town Alexandria is a fun place to explore when in the city. The impressive building interprets Washington's activities as a Mason and the contributions of American Masons. Their curriculum is tailored to the developmental needs of children of different ages. Through articles highlighting Virginia's attractions, hotels, restaurants, and family activities, Juliet artfully guides families on enthralling journeys across the state and beyond as a local expert and resident. Vernon. Try authentic artisanal gelato from Old Town Dolci Gelati, whose chef is a global gelato ambassador, or head to Casa Rosada for freshly made artisan gelato and sorbet. The lighthouse areas fishing piers beckons the angler in you to fish for catfish, rock bass, and eels. Port City Porter has a regular spot in our fridge, but we also love to visit the brewery at 3950 Wheeler Ave. Just 8 miles south of Old Town Alexandria is George Washington's Mount Vernon, home of America's first president. Sample Local Award-Winning Craft Beer and Cider, 11. Peruse this former munitions factory and peek in at the 82 artist studios, six galleries and Alexandria Archaeology Museum. Experience the best of Northern Virginia by visiting Fairfax County, VA! Nearby at Volas Dockside Grill enjoy fresh shucked oysters, crab cakesand New England or Carolina low country steamer pails. Taverna Cretekou: tasty Greek food from a restaurant that has been family-run for almost 50 years. During a trip, you'll find many fun things to do in Alexandria, VA! It will help them navigate their environment in a safe and creative manner. Potomac Yard Marina & Daingerfield Island. Copyright 2021 DC Travel Magazine/Walking On Media LLC This site contains affiliate links. The quaint coffeehouse serves up a variety of hot and iced coffee beverages made with freshly roasted coffee. The rangers have a kid-friendly program on lighthouse life. Play navigator as your children plot out the stops with the map provided. If you click on an affiliate link we provide, we may receive compensation. Fun fact: George Washington used to send produce from Mount Vernon to sell here! For the quintessential experience, head eight miles south of Old Town to George Washingtons Mount Vernon. Northern Virginia events in June also include opportunities to volunteer, compete, learn, and play throughout the Washington DC region. Not sure that anything gets wiped down for interval disinfection (I didnt see it happen the whole 2 hours we were there). In 1783, this site at the foot of Wilkes Street was one of the first shipyards in the city. Explore more than 25 of the best things to do in Alexandria VA, perfect for a day trip, weekend getaway, or longer visit to Northern Virginia and the Washington DC region. Here, visitors can stroll a paved path dotted with parks, restaurants, and attractions. The Providence is a beautiful replica of the first ship authorized to serve in the Continental Navy and was John Paul Jones first American command. Then, we list places to visit in surrounding neighborhoods like hip Del Ray and neighboring Arlington and Fairfax Counties. The market has everything from farm-fresh produce, baked goods, art, jewelry, and more. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. See the Tiny Spite House, the Skinniest Historic House in America, 7. This beautiful and peaceful, if a bit solemn, corner of Alexandria is actually made up of several different historic graveyards right next to each other. Alexandria has more than 140 locations associated with the nations first president. Art lovers will want to plan a trip to the Torpedo Factory Art Center. There are also tours that explore herbal medicine. If you're happy to travel outside Alexandria, planning a trip to Baltimore is a great idea. Alexandrians are never at a loss for a good place to find breakfast, whether you are looking for traditional or modern breakfast options. Experience completely free al fresco activities, from finding hidden photo spots to taking historic walking tours to relaxing in natural escapes. As its name suggests, the imposing brick building was once used to produce munitions, including torpedos. It was $19 for my son and two adults on a weekend for 2 hours (no one enforces the time - another reason it probably gets crowded as the day goes on). Free Things To Do In Alexandria, VA | Events & Activities The beautiful 100 block of Prince Street, between S. Lee and S. Union, features a wide cobblestone street climbing a hill. 10 Fun Things to Do in Alexandria July 2023 | Expedia Learn more. On our last visit, the artwork Groundswell illustrated the changing Potomac depth with wooden pilings. Cool off during the hot summer months at this neighborhood water park, which sports several large water slides, an enormous wave pool, an imaginative climbing playground and a splash area for younger kids. 1401 Prince Street Alexandria VA Spite House Cobblestones on Captain's Row Cobblestone streets were once the norm in Old Town and that history is preserved on Captain's Row. Accommodations close to the Alexandria Black History Museum. You can also easily access the waterway to go kayaking or canoeing. As you enjoy the game, you can order beer or other alcoholic drinks, and dishes like wings, burgers, and salads are available. It's less than a mile from Jones Point to Waterfront Park and you'll have pretty views throughout if you follow the riverside trail. After a tour, you can try a selection of craft beers, and there are often food trucks on-site if you want to enjoy some snacks with your drinks. The Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site sits on what was a Union Army site in the Civil War. Whether you have a few hours or several days, you'll find fun and interesting things to do in Alexandria VA for every age and interest. Chinquapin Park boosts professional-size fields and courts for all types of sports, as well as pools and saunas, gyms with special classes, nature trails, and playgrounds for any age. Today you can tour the stately mansion at Woodlawn, as well as the Pope-Leighey House, a beautiful Frank Lloyd Wright Usonian home. She seems to add new animals pretty often so I cant help but go check them out periodically. Next, we share popular annual events and some of the best places to stay in the city. Harry Potter fans can see the real-life ingredients used throughout the 1800s that were also used as potion ingredients in the series, including dragons blood, mandrake root, lavender, castor oil, valerian and many more. Bookmark our list so you don't miss any of the fun. Feel Like Youre in Harry Potters World. Its popular as a peaceful spot to watch sailboats launch and whiz by. I knew that it probably was going to be popular on a cold rainy weekend but it was a absolute zoo! Failing movie theater that used to be great. Wander Old Towns historic red brick sidewalks for more photo-worthy rowhouses from centuries past and check out other top Instagram spots. The collection of oddities and historic artifactsincluding unicorn root, dragon's blood, and a medicine order from Martha Washingtonare displayed just as they were in the past.
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