Alexandria is a city of over 139,000 people (as of 2009) located along the Western bank of the Potamac River just 6 miles south of the nation’s capitol, Washington DC.

The biggest draw for tourists in Alexandria is the historic Old Town area which as its name implies is the oldest part of the city. It was originally laid out in 1749. Market Square in Old Town is the oldest continuously operating marketplace in the United States (since 1753.)

Old Town has a high concentration of boutiques, restaurants, antique shops and theaters which can all be walked to. If you’re not big on walking then you can take the free trolley bus on King St.

For those who love history, great boutique shopping, and excellent food Alexandria’s Old Town is a fantastic place to visit.

Popular Hotels in Alexandria

Embassy Suites Old Town. This 3 star hotel has an excellent location and a very high average verified guest review rating. Its features include an indoor pool, high-speed internet, a fitness room, 24 hour room service, and a business center. Click Here to make online reservations at the Embassy Suites Old Town.

Hilton Hotel Old Town

Hotel Monaco

Five Things to Do in Alexandria

1. Visit Gadby’s Tavern Museum. An excellent example of the great American history you can find in Alexandria. Built in 1785, among Gadby’s Tavern’s guests were George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, & James Monroe. 134 N. Royal Street. (703) 746-4242.

2. Visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center. This is one of the largest visual arts centers in the US. It includes 82 working studios, 6 galleries, the Art League School and the Alexandria Archaeology Museum. It’s located on the Waterfront in Old Town. 105 North Union Street. (703) 838-4565.

3. Take the Alexandria’s Original Ghost & Graveyard Tour or one of the other Alexandria Colonial Tours. 201 King Street. (703) 519-1749.

4. Take a gourmet dinner cruise on the Potamac River on the Dandy Dinner Boat. Zero Prince St. (703) 683-6076.

5. Hop on & off the free King’s Street Trolley in Old Town.

Recommended Alexandria Restaurants

La Mexicana Bakery & Taqueria – An authentic “mom & pop” Mexican restaurant. In a twist that helps differentiate it from other Mexican restaurants, this restaurant has a bakery too! 2907 Arlington Dr. (703) 717-0807.

Momo Sushi & Cafe – Highest rated sushi in the city. 212 Queen St. (703) 299-9092.

Mai Thai – Delicious Thai food near the Waterfront in Old Town. 6 King Street. (703) 548-0600.

Restaurant Eve – Fine dining. Features a sophisticated menu created by Dublin native Chef Cathal Armstrong. 110 S Pitt St. (703) 706-0450.

Five Guys – For those who love burgers & fries Five Guys is the place to go in Alexandria. Many people consider Five Guys to have the best fast food burgers in the country. Even President Obama is known to visit Five Guys to get his Presidential burgers. 6210 Quander Rd. (703) 768-4700.