Top 7 Old Town Alexandria Things to Do This Fall

Steeped in history, Old Town Alexandria is home to charming shops, cozy restaurants and vibrant colors making it breathtaking in the Fall. Planning a trip to Alexandria, VA or looking for a new travel spot to visit with your loved ones? This list of best Old Town Alexandria VA Things to do is for you.

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From the picture perfect historic streets, lined up with row houses, to the vibrant autumn hues, adding a natural, whimsical touch to the already seasonal decorations, Old Town Alexandria is absolutely breathtaking in the Fall. The Old Town is a charming neighborhood in a city consistently ranked as one of the best small cities in the America. There are so many things to see and do in Alexandria VA that you would need at least a weekend to see it all, but if you only have a day, don’t skip it. It is one of those places that will leave you wanting to come back and worth the memories even for a few hours trip.

This 2023 Autumn season the peak for Fall foliage is expected around October 18th, so visiting the week before or after that date would be best. The town is the perfect romantic destination, family trip, or solo travels, and of course a dream for history lovers. Just walking down the streets our founding fathers walked on or having lunch at the same Tavern George Washington ate, make Old Town Alexandria a trip one will never forget.

This post is all about Old Town Alexandria this Fall and what to see when visiting this charming town.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN ALEXANDRIA VA OLD TOWN THIS FALL

1. Take a Stroll Down Captain’s Row

One of my favorite spots in Old Town Alexandria is Captain’s Row. Just steps from the scenec Potomac River waterfront, the 100 block of Prince street, along with its 200 block known as Gentry Row are picture perfect year round, especially so when Autumn is in full peak. Marvel at the unique architecture of 18th and 19th century Row Houses built by Col. George Gilpin, a friend of George Washington and Philadelphia sea captain John Harper.

Fall decorations, flickering lantenrns, and the cobblestones make for a very romantic and memorable walk. I wouldn’t miss Captain’s Row in Old Town Alexandria any time of the years as it is easily one of the most instagrammable places in Alexandria, but that is certainly true during the Fall. A must see whether alone, with kids or with your significant other.

2. Experience Historic King Street

There is so much to see and do on King Street Alexandria that an entire post dedicated to it would not be enough. Some of the best restaurants, boutiques and attractions are on or around that one historic street, so it should deffinitely be on your iternarary. Starting from King Street Gardens Park take the 1 mile walkable section to the Potomac River waterfront and enjoy all it has to offer on the way.

Check out some of the many unique boutiques and specialty stores on or just off King Street. You don’t want to miss the oldest farmers’ market in the country held continuously at the same site. Old Town Farmers’ Market is the place where George Washington himself sent his produce from Mount Vernon to be sold at. The market is open every Saturday rain or shine. From quaint coffee shops and bakeries to the historic architecture and Old Town Trolley, King Street is a delightful way to spend an afternoon.

3. Unwind at Old Town Alexandria’s Waterfront

Old Town Waterfront in Alexandria was named one of the Best River Walks in the USA by Fodor’s Travel and rightfully so. Art, music, and entertainment along with seasonal activities make this historic city port a modern getaway to remember. Take a stroll by water or sit on a swing to enjoy the picturesque views of the Potomac River and Washington DC. Take a Water Taxi to The Wharf, National Harbor, and Georgetown. Venture on a scenic, brunch, dinner or holiday cruise with City Cruises or go sailing, kayking or paddleboarding.

A special treat this Fall is the Tall Ship Prividence with it’s many seasonal and themed cruises. And when you are done exploring just grab a bite or a drink by the water. With too many options to list all for both al fresco and indoor dining, you can’t go wrong with spending a few hours at the historic port of Alexandria VA. Check out Hummingbird with Award-winning Chef Cathal Armstrong for a chic athmosphere and mouthwatering sea food. For great outdoor dining check out Ada on the River or BARCA Pier and Wine Bar. Or just walk around until one of the

4. Take in the Historic Sights of Old Town Alexandria VA

Alexandria, VA was founded in 1749, so there is no wonder that it is steeped in history. Marvel at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, admire the art at  Torpedo Factory Art Center or visit the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, a favorite among Harry Potter fans. History lovers will appreciate seeing a replica of the townhouse George Washington owned located on Cameron street today. They can visit Christ Church and sit in pew# 60 for a bit, where he once sat.

Then visit Gadsby’s Tavern and museum, for fine dining in elegant colonial rooms and history tours. Offering lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch Gadsby’s Tavern Restaurant, whose notable visitors include George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, James Madison & James Monroe, is one of my personal favorite spots in Old Town Alexandria.

When it comes to activities and tours there are many wonderful options to choose from, some of which combine Old Town Alexandria tour with a visit to Mount Vernon. If you prefer to explore with a guide who knows the town and history a guided group walking tour may be just the thing. If you would rather have a private tour this dog friendly Private History of Old Town Alexandria tour is very takes you through the best of colonial Alexandria has to offer.

I personally love the Walking Tour of George Washington’s Alexandria, which highlights places our founding father frequented. For a moment it can almost feel as if you had traveled back in time. As for those of you who like a good ghost story the Old Town Ghost & Graveyard Walking Tour is a treat. If you would rather exlore on your own stop by the Visitors Center, grab some maps and walk around Old town and enjoy.

5. Stay at One of the Many Charming Old Town Alexandria Hotels and Guest Houses

There is so much to see and do in Alexandria that it makes sense to spend a few nights in town. Charming boutique hotels, guest houses and riverside resorts offer premmioum accomodations and plenty of options to choose from. I did mention that Old Town is home to George Washington’s Townhouse and today you can see a replica rebuild from the the bricks and stone recovered during the escavation of the original. What I didn’t mention, however is that you can actually stay in it. Alternatively check out Boutique Blue Old Town House and King Bed Serene Old Town Sanctuary. Both are within walking distance from all major attractions in Old Town and offer fantastic amenities.

If you would rather stay in a boutique or luxury hotel Old Town Alexandria has quite a few excellent option conviniently located near the waterfront and King Street and just steps away from the many restaurants, shops and museums. As this is a Literary Lifestyle and Travel blog it would come as no surprise that one of my favorite Old Town Alexandria hotels is the literary themed Morison House Old Town Alexandria, Authograph Collection. The Alexandrian with historically-inspired decor, whimsical rooms and location in the heart of Old Town is another fantastic option.

Visitors can also choose to stay in one of the many boutique hotels in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, each unique in decorand experience. The riverside Hotel Indigo for the spectacular views, the charming Lorien Hotel & Spa for the relaxing retreat experience or the sophisticated Hotel Aka for the modern minimalism and refined mid-century elements, offering enhanced Zen Suites and luxurious furnishings.

6. Shop at one of over 100 Old Town Alexanria Boutiques

Alexexandria is a shoppers paradise, home to the largest collection of indipendent boutique shops in the D.C. area. As someone who loves tea I was delighted to discover The Spice & Tea Exchange of Alexandria. Bookworms will love Old Town Books, Harambee Books & Artwork and the fantastic children’s bookstore Hooray for Books. While fans of antiquing are sure to appreciate The Antique Guild and Lowery’s Dial.

Of course Old Town Alexandria is no stranger to fashion and decor boutiques. An American in Paris, Donna Lewis, The Lucky Knot, and Mint Condition are just a few fashion shops to start you off. For home and wellness shopping you will love Boxwood, Red Barn Mecantile and Bellacara. Families with young children will enjoy The Happy Place Gift Shop and Pink & Brown Boutique. And last but not least The Old Town Shop and The BEST Gift Shop are great for gift shopping. Do make sure to stop by the Alexandria Visitor Center as well, where besides maps, brochures and events information visitors can find a lovely gift shop.

7. Enjoy Excuisite Dining at the Many Old Town Alexandria Restaurants

When in Old Town Alexandria visitors have a great selection of restaurants from American and seafood to some of the best international cuisine. Try O’Connell’s for a taste of Ireland, Brabo Brasserie for French or Mia’s Italian Kitchen. Or take a trip to yesteryear at The Magestic and Gadsby’s Tavern.

For outdoor dining I love the vibe at Virtue Feed and Grain conviniently located by the waterfront and right on King Street. If you are up for a culinaryy adventure I would also recomend a food tour. The local eateries visited and the dishes sampled are usually ones you wouldn’tt have come up on your own with. We always have a lot of fun during food tours. This 3.5 Old Town Alexandria Tour has it all – from local and international delicacies to mouthwatering hand crafted deserts. Up for a drink tour? The Alexandria Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl looks like a lot of fun, especially in the Fall.

Final Thoughts on

Top 7 Old Town Alexandria Things to Do This Fall

Old Town Alexandria is easily one of my favorite spots to visit in the US and no matter the season there is always a lot to see and do. A bistling modern city with old world charm, steeped in history, Alexandria VA is delightful for a visit whether for an hour or a week. As a history, tea and book lover Alexandria far exceeded my expectations. The town, the port, the art, the food and boutiques, the fantastic options for lodging and many events year round make it a place one falls in love with.

Autumn is beautiful in the area and it is worth venturing beyond the Alexandria, VA city limits to explore as well. Washington D.C., George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Annapolis or even Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello are perfect day trips if you are staying for a few days. Whatever you choose to do Old Town Alexandria is worth taking the time to visit.

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