Best Things to do in Alexandria | Must-see attractions 2025

Gadsby's Tavern Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

134 N Royal St

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Gadsby's Tavern Museum, located in Alexandria, showcases 18th-century history with tours of two historically significant buildings and offers traditional American fare.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special programs may require a paid ticket.

Carlyle House Historic Park

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

121 N Fairfax St

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Carlyle House Historic Park features an 18th-century manor and lush gardens located in Alexandria, Virginia, offering tours and various events throughout the year.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Huntley Meadows Park

7:00 AM–7:30 PM

Park

3701 Lockheed Blvd

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Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria, Virginia, features forests, wetlands, diverse wildlife, and a historic house. Offers observation tower access and scenic trails.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free.

Old Presbyterian Meeting House

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

321 S Fairfax St

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Old Presbyterian Meeting House in Alexandria, Virginia, is a historic church and gravesite of an Unknown Soldier from the Revolutionary War.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. No tickets are required for entry.

Alfred Street Baptist Church

8:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

301 S Alfred St (at Duke St)

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Alfred Street Baptist Church, one of the oldest African American Baptist Churches in the U.S., celebrates its bicentennial in 2003, located in Alexandria, Virginia.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

105 S Fairfax St # 107

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Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum features historical apothecary items from 1792 to 1933, including unique remedies used by notable figures like the Washingtons.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Alexandria Presbyterian Church

9:00 AM–3:00 PM

Church

2405 Russell Rd (btw Uhler & Del Ray)

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Alexandria Presbyterian Church, founded in 1803, offers a historic worship environment with neoclassical architecture in Alexandria, Virginia.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and outreach programs.

The Lyceum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

201 S Washington St

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The Lyceum in Alexandria, Virginia, is a historic museum established in 1839, showcasing local history from Colonial times to the 20th century through various exhibits.

Duration: About 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require tickets.

Freedom House Museum

10:00 AM–4:30 PM

Museum

1315 Duke St

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Freedom House Museum in Alexandria, Virginia, traces the history of the slave trade through personal narratives and artifacts in a former slave-holding space.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations encouraged.

Alexandria Archaeology Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

105 N Union St # 327

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Alexandria Archaeology Museum in Virginia highlights historical artifacts and archaeological efforts, promoting local heritage through displays and hands-on experiences.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Cameron Run Regional Park

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

4001 Eisenhower Avenue

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Cameron Run Regional Park in Alexandria offers minigolf, a waterpark, batting cages, and picnicking. A compact local park for recreation and fun.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Prices vary by activity; check the official site for specific fees.

National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

600 Dulany St

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The National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum in Alexandria showcases the stories of over 540 inventors and their contributions to innovation and culture.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

AthenaeumNVFAA

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Museum

201 Prince St (Lee St)

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The AthenaeumNVFAA is a historic gallery and performance venue in Alexandria, Virginia, showcasing fine arts and hosting cultural events with free admission.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Alexandria Black History Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

902 Wythe St

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Alexandria Black History Museum in Virginia features African American historical exhibits, documenting local history in a building significant to the civil rights movement.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Torpedo Factory Art Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

105 N Union St On the waterfront at the intersection of King and Union Streets

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Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria hosts 150+ working artists and features 7 galleries, the Art League, and Alexandria Archaeology Museum.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Jones Point Lighthouse

Sunrise to Sunset

Lighthouse

jones Point Park

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Jones Point Lighthouse, built in 1855, is a historic lighthouse located on the banks of the Potomac River in Alexandria, Virginia, offering beautiful riverside views.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Shirlington Dog Park

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

2710 S Oakland St Near Village at Sherlington

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Shirlington Dog Park in Alexandria, Virginia, offers a spacious area for dogs to play, socialize, and enjoy nature, designed for canine enjoyment and safety.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entrance fee for visitors.

Winkler Botanical Preserve

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Forest

5400 Roanoke Ave

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Winkler Botanical Preserve in Alexandria, Virginia, features diverse nature trails, a mountain lodge, and a picturesque waterfall surrounded by woods.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have fees.

Jones Point Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

George Washington Memorial Pkwy underneath the Woodrow Wilson Bridge

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Jones Point Park in Alexandria features a historic lighthouse, an interpretive trail, playgrounds, and sports fields for active families and history enthusiasts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. There are no charges for entry or usage of park facilities.

George Washington's Mount Vernon

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway

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George Washington's Mount Vernon is the historic estate of the first U.S. president, offering insights into his life, period furnishings, and beautiful gardens.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $28, Seniors/Military: $26, Children (age 6-11): $15, Children under 6: Free.

George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

5514 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy

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George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill in Alexandria, USA, showcases 18th-century distilling and mill operations, offering visitors a taste of history and spirits.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Spirits and products may be purchased from the on-site gift shop.

Windmill Hill Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

501 S Union St

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Windmill Hill Park in Alexandria offers athletic courts, a playground, a dog area, and scenic riverfront views, making it a great spot for recreation and relaxation.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Green Spring Garden

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

4603 Green Spring Rd Intersection of Braddock Road and Witch Hazel Road

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Green Spring Garden in Alexandria offers a historic horticultural site with themed gardens and a historic house for visitors to explore.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special programs and events may require a paid ticket.

St Paul Episcopal Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

228 S Pitt St

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St Paul Episcopal Church in Alexandria, Virginia, offers a rich history and beautiful architecture, serving the local community and visitors alike.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special events.

Point Lumley Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

1 Duke St

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Point Lumley Park, located in Alexandria, offers waterfront views and various outdoor activities along the Potomac River. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and local wildlife.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special events may have associated costs.

Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve

Sunrise–Sunset

Park

no Address George Washinton Memorial Parkway

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Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve in Alexandria, Virginia, offers diverse habitats including wetlands and wildlife viewing opportunities, perfect for nature lovers.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free.

The Little Theatre of Alexandria

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

600 Wolfe St

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The Little Theatre of Alexandria offers a rich performing arts experience with local productions, established in 1934. It’s a beloved community theater in Virginia.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Tickets typically range from $15 to $30 depending on the event. Discounts available for seniors and students.

Mason District Park

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

6621 Columbia Pike

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Mason District Park in Alexandria, Virginia features trails, picnic tables, and outdoor recreational areas ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. No admission fees; however, some events may have associated costs.

Friendship Firehouse Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

107 S Alfred St Between King and Prince sts

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Friendship Firehouse Museum in Alexandria, VA, showcases the history of the first fire company founded in 1774, including historic firefighting gear.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

George Washington University Alexandria Graduate Education Center

8:30 AM–5:00 PM

University

1925 Ballenger Ave Fl 2

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George Washington University Alexandria Graduate Education Center offers advanced degree programs in a dynamic learning environment located in Alexandria, Virginia.

Duration: 1-2 hours for campus tours and information sessions.

Free. Enrollment in specific programs may require tuition fees.

Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge

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The Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge connects Alexandria, Virginia, to Oxon Hill in Maryland, spanning the Potomac River with a bascule design.

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Free to cross. No tickets required.

Greendale Golf Course

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

6700 Telegraph Rd

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Greendale Golf Course in Alexandria boasts a scenic 18-hole layout founded in 1995, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees: $30. Discounts available for seniors and juniors.

United States Patent and Trademark Office Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

401 Dulany St (at Ballenger Ave.)

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The United States Patent and Trademark Office Museum in Alexandria showcases America's innovation history through interactive exhibits and artifacts related to patents and trademarks.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions or events may have a fee.

Woodlawn & Frank Lloyd Wright's Pope-Leighey House

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Historic Site

9000 Richmond Highway

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Woodlawn & Frank Lloyd Wright's Pope-Leighey House in Alexandria, Virginia, features historic architecture and gardens, showcasing the work of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Guided tours available on the hour may have associated costs.

Great Waves Waterpark

11:00 AM–7:00 PM

Amusement Park

4001 Eisenhower Ave

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Great Waves Waterpark is a 20-acre water park in Alexandria, Virginia, featuring various waterslides, pools, mini-golf, and batting cages for family fun.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets are $20, and child tickets are $15.

Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

4301 W Braddock Rd

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Fort Ward Museum in Alexandria, Virginia, features a well-preserved Civil War fort with exhibits on military history and interpretive programs.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Lee-Fendall House

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

614 Oronoco St (at North Washington Street)

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Lee-Fendall House in Alexandria, Virginia, built in 1785, showcases Lee family history and Civil War significance with guided tours of restored interiors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Adults: $10, Seniors: $8, Children under 12: Free. Discounts available for groups.

Ben Brenman Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

4800 Brenman Park Drive

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Ben Brenman Park in Alexandria features sports fields, a fenced dog park, a scenic pond, and ample picnic areas for visitors.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a registration fee.

National Science Foundation

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

2415 Eisenhower Ave

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The National Science Foundation in Alexandria, Virginia, promotes groundbreaking scientific research and innovation, driving advancement in various scientific fields.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free to enter. Special events may incur costs.

Oronoco Bay Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

100 Madison St

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Oronoco Bay Park in Alexandria, Virginia, offers scenic waterfront views and recreational facilities, making it a vital community space for locals and visitors alike.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have associated fees.

Chessie's Big Backyard

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Amusement Park

6624 Telegraph Rd

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Chessie's Big Backyard is a vibrant playground located in Alexandria, Virginia, offering diverse play structures, picnic areas, and nature trails for families and children.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special programs may require registration.

Old Town Theater

12:00 PM–11:00 PM

Theater

815 1/2 King St

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Old Town Theater, located in Alexandria, VA, has hosted live entertainment since 1914. Enjoy comedy, music, and more in this renovated venue.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Varies by event. Check the schedule for specifics.

Office closed

Church

Virginia

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Del Ray Baptist Church in Alexandria, VA, offers a welcoming community with a focus on worship, education, and service. Its modern architectural style complements vibrant local culture.

Duration: 1-2 hours for a service or event.

Free. Services and community events have no charge.