Alexandria, VA Tourist Attractions

A visit to the Gadsby's Tavern Museum is a great way to step back in time and experience the 18th Century in Alexandria. The museum is divided between two properties, the tavern and the City Hotel, both built in the late 1700s. On display at Gadsby's Tavern Museum are a variety of antique items that belonged to the owner, John Gadsby.Visitors can visit the museum by day or by night on Friday night Lantern Tours during the summer. Or, for a more personal experience try attending one of the 18th century Balls or other programs hosted by the museum.

The Old Presbyterian Meeting House in Alexandria has an interesting history. This attraction will be important to anyone with an interest in the US Civil War. The adjoining graveyard holds the tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary Soldier. The building was completed in 1772 and has been maintained ever since by a loyal and active congregation. The Old Presbyterian Meeting House is located in the Old Town area of Alexandria and visitors are always welcome.

The Ramsay House Visitor Center in Alexandria is a fascinating place to visit. Contained within the walls of this home built in the 1770s is a vast collection of interesting facts related to Alexandria. Visitors to Alexandria should plan on making the Ramsay House Visitor Center their first stop in town so they can easily plan their visit. The house is an excellent example of architecture from the late 18th Century and the gambrel roof design is rarely seen today.

A visit to the Woodlawn Plantation located in Alexandria is like stepping back into a bygone era. This National Trust Historic site is a commanding home on a sprawling acreage. Inside the home visitors will find period pieces from the 18th Century along with interior decorations from the same timeframe. Be sure to check out the wonderful views of Mount Vernon and the Potomac River from the second story windows.

The Alexandria Black History Resource Center and the Black History Museum deals with the history of the area and African American life. The museum contains a diverse collection of items, including art, religous artifacts, stamps, and photographs. The Alexandria Black History Resource Center is comprised of the Black History Museum, The Watson Reading Room, and the African American Heritage Park.

Carlyle House located in Alexandria houses all manner of memorabilia devoted to John Carlyle. The home is filled with period pieces and done up in the fashions of the time. The architectural style is 18th Century Palladian. Carlyle House also features a gift shop on the premises.

The Collingwood Library and Museum on Americanism in Alexandria is dedicated to preserving American heritage and history. The library's collection contains unique and historic volumes, with an emphasis on the Masonic Fraternity. The Collingwood Library and Museum is housed in a restored, late 19th Century mansion.

Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site located in Alexandria is a reconstructed Civil War Fort that was intended to protect Washington, DC. The museum shows what life was like back in the 1860's during the Civil War. Also on offer are a variety of educational programs and living history activities along with Civil War memorabilia.

The Friendship Firehouse Museum located in Alexandria is housed in a building built in 1885. The firehouse features several levels with displays on each. The displays show interesting items such as hoses, leather water buckets, and historic fire fighting equipment.

George Washington's River Farm in Alexandria was owned by George Washington who acquired the property in 1760. He rented the property out but did not live at the River Farm. Today the farm is owned by the American Horticultural Society and is a gardeners paradise.

The Lyceum, located in Alexandria, was built in the mid 19th Century to be used as central gathering place for intellectual discovery and discussion. Over the years it has been used for many different purposes including a hospital. Today the Lyceum is a museum devoted to the history of Alexandria.

The Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria is a visual arts center that features artist studios where visitors can see artists at work and as well as their artwork. The Torpedo Factor features 82 working studios, 6 galleries, 2 workshops, and The Alexandria Archaeology Museum.

Christ Church in Alexandria was built in 1773 and attended by both George Washington and Robert E. Lee. It was also visited by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Sir Winston Churchill. Visitors can tour Christ and learn all about its history.

Explore Alexandria on a guided tour of the historic district with the tour company, Doorways to Old Virginia. Visitors will learn about the history and development of Alexandria.

The Memorial was dedicated to George Washington in 1932 as an expression of the Masonic fraternity's faith. The Memorial was constructed entirely with voluntary contributions from members of the Masonic Fraternity.

The Lee-Fendell House Museum was built in the late 18th Century and currently stands in the Historic District of Old Alexandria. The home is furnished in period pieces and is surrounded by award winning gardens that are pleasant spots to linger.

The Potomac Riverboat Co. takes visitors to Alexandria on sightseeing trips or functions simply as a shuttle between Alexandria and Washington, DC. Boat tours take in the waterfront sites of Georgetown, Arlington, and Alexandria.

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum located in Alexandria showcases the way ailments were dealt with in the 1700's. The collection includes over 8000 items and the museum is furnished much the same way it would have been in the 18th Century.