Question 1

What is there to do in Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

Wander Old Town — a mile of King Street lined with 18th-century rowhouses, boutiques and restaurants down to the Potomac waterfront — browse artists' studios in the Torpedo Factory (a WWII munitions plant turned art center), walk cobblestoned Captain's Row, and cruise or bike 9 miles south to George Washington's Mount Vernon.

Question 2

How do I get to Alexandria from Washington DC?

Accepted Answer

Metro's Blue or Yellow line to King St–Old Town takes about 25 minutes from downtown DC (fares roughly $2.85–$4 depending on time), and a free King Street Trolley shuttles you from the station down to the waterfront. Water taxis also cross from DC's Wharf and Georgetown in season.

Question 3

Is Alexandria worth visiting?

Accepted Answer

Yes — many DC visitors call Old Town their favorite half-day: it's the walkable colonial port Georgetown wishes it still was, with real 1700s streetscapes, a relaxed waterfront and top-tier restaurants. Pair it with Mount Vernon, 9 scenic miles south, for a full George Washington day.

Question 4

Is Alexandria safe?

Accepted Answer

Very — Old Town and Del Ray are polished, strollable neighborhoods that stay comfortable into the evening, and Alexandria ranks among the safest cities in the DC region. Standard urban awareness covers it. Emergency number: 911.

Question 5

How far is Mount Vernon from Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

About 9 miles south along the George Washington Memorial Parkway — a 20-minute drive, a gorgeous flat bike ride on the Mount Vernon Trail along the Potomac, or a seasonal sightseeing cruise from the Old Town dock. Washington's estate, gardens and tomb deserve a half day; buy timed tickets ahead in spring and summer.

Question 6

Do I need a car in Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

No — the Metro connects Old Town to DC and Reagan National Airport (DCA is about 5 miles, roughly 10 minutes away), the free King Street Trolley covers the main drag, and Old Town itself is made for walking. A car or bike only enters the picture for Mount Vernon.

Question 7

What food is Alexandria known for?

Accepted Answer

A serious small-city restaurant scene — colonial-era dining at Gadsby's Tavern (Washington ate here), Potomac-view seafood on the revamped waterfront, and nationally noted kitchens along King Street and in Del Ray. The Saturday farmers' market in Market Square has run since 1753, among America's oldest.

Question 8

When was Alexandria established?

Accepted Answer

Alexandria was founded around 1749.

Question 9

What languages do people speak here?

Accepted Answer

English; Spanish is spoken by 40+ million people — dominant in parts of Miami, LA, Texas and the Southwest.

Question 10

What is Alexandria known for?

Accepted Answer

Alexandria is known as: George Washington's hometown port — Old Town's cobblestones and King Street, a lively Potomac waterfront, and colonial charm 15 minutes from Washington DC.

Question 11

What is the nearest major airport?

Accepted Answer

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) — about 5 km away.

Question 12

What timezone is it in?

Accepted Answer

Alexandria is in the UTC-5 to UTC-10 timezone.

Alexandria

Airports near Alexandria

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Washington Dulles International Airport

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport

Alexandria at a Glance

Nearby places to explore

Famous Places Near Alexandria

Info about Alexandria