Things to See and Do in Alexandria, VA

Alexandria, the hometown of George Washington, still retains the character and charm of a historic port city. Today, Alexandria boasts citizens who are noted for their participation in local government and for their strong sense of community. Alexandria was recently cited as one of only six cities in the nation to receive the coveted "Innovation Award for Outstanding Community Building" by the National League of Cities. In addition, Alexandria is ranked as the fifth best "Big City for Doing Business" in the U.S. and is first in the rankings of the "Best Cities for Women."

Spring and Summer Highlights

Washington | Arlington | Alexandria |  Montgomery County

Torpedo Factory Art Center
Get out of the cold with a visit to Old Town Alexandria's Torpedo Factory, which today plays host to nearly 100 artists who use the three-story former World War I factory for their studio workspace and as a gallery to showcase and sell their work. Considered one of the nation's finest visual arts centers, the Torpedo Factory is open daily from 9:00 to 5:00, with Second Thursday Art Nights held every month from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. For more information, visit the Torpedo Factory web site.

Farmers' Market
Stroll the country's oldest continually operating farmers' market with a visit to Alexandria's 250-year old Farmers' Market, held every Saturday morning from 5:30 to 10:30 a.m., year-round. The market is located at Market Square (301 King Street) in the center of Old Town, and typically features fresh produce and food, handicrafts, flowers, jewelers, framed art and wearable art.

Mount Vernon
Visit George Washington’s beautiful estate open 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Visitors can tour the mansion, slave quarters and stables. On a beautiful warm day, stroll through the animal farms and gardens and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Potomac River. Don’t forget, this year’s Gardening Days at Mount Vernon are from April 14-16. Visitors are welcome to tour the four gardens in bloom just in time for the annual garden and gift sale. Click here for more information.

The Masonic Temple
Step back in time and visit the George Washington Masonic Memorial built by more than 2 million Freemasons in the early 1900’s to honor George Washington. The Temple is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Alexandria and is open daily to the public from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Visitors are allowed to tour each of the sacred rooms and the guided tours are free! Visit the top of the temple to enjoy the view of Alexandria and see how the temple lines up perfectly with Alexandria’s popular King Street. For more information on tour times visit www.gwmemorial.org.

More Highlights: Washington | Arlington |  Montgomery County

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