THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Alexandria - 2024 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor
Things to Do in Alexandria

Things to Do in Alexandria, VA - Alexandria Attractions

Things to Do in Alexandria


Book these experiences for a close-up look at Alexandria.

Top Attractions in Alexandria

These rankings are informed by traveler reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.

Historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets, waterfront dining, diverse shops, and cultural sites like converted art galleries; includes a free trolley.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Historic tall ship adventure with role-playing activities and below-deck tours, offering insights into maritime life and scenic sunset cruises from the neighborhood's waterfront.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Family-friendly waterfront promenade with paved paths, eclectic shops, and dining choices. Enjoy kayaking, boat tours, and river cruises, complemented by public art and serene river views.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Historic waterfront art center in Old Town with a tapestry of galleries, studios, and interactive artist spaces within a former munitions factory.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Historic house showcasing Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian design, with docent-led insights into middle-class residential architecture and natural light utilization.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Historic church with docent-led tours, showcasing a well-preserved structure and the famed pew of George Washington. Enjoy a blend of history and reverence in serene surroundings.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Historic apothecary set in a preserved old-world building, with guided and self-guided tours available, featuring original artifacts and a glimpse into the evolution of healthcare.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Wetland and wildlife sanctuary with peaceful boardwalk trails amid marshlands, ideal for birdwatching and nature photography, with diverse species from beavers to turtles.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Other Top Attractions around Alexandria






*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travelers are saying

  • dustythoughts
    Manchester, CT2,129 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This charming Old Town was a wonderful way to perambulate and take in the fascinating architecture. There are numerous small shops, great restaurants, and historical sites throughout the Old Town, which abuts the gorgeous wharf/waterfront. The pathways are lined with cobblestone, which adds to the quaintness of the area. Everything is clean and well-maintained, and everyone here is very friendly. At night, fairy lights are strung through the trees, which we absolutely loved. The row houses are lovely. You could spend days just in the Old Town.
    Written March 12, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Virginia O
    Alexandria, VA11 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The crew was so professional and friendly. They gave us great information about the boat. Really fun to watch them set sails. And the views of Alexandria, Arlington and Washington, DC from the water were spectacular. Relaxing tour.
    Written April 28, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • dustythoughts
    Manchester, CT2,129 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Old Town Waterfront is a very pleasant and pretty place to enjoy the water views of Alexandria. There are numerous restaurants, small shops, and benches where you can sit and enjoy the beauty. There's a river cruise that departs from this area as well. Many of the paths here are paved, which made it easier for everyone to walk. It's evident that the city takes very good care of this area, as everything was clean and well-maintained.
    Written March 11, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • MsKiesha
    Alexandria, VA2,699 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful gallery! I love how the artists have their own room to express themselves, which plays into the aesthetic of their beautiful artwork. Everything was so unique and very interesting. I had a really good time.
    Written July 30, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • surfer703TA
    Alexandria, VA1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Both tours of the Mansion and Pop Leighy House were awesome. Very informative, interesting, as well as a little upsetting regarding slavery. The Frank Lloyd Wright Home was gorgeous. I would love to have one.! Thanks Autumn and Chris.for your time.
    Written May 21, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • JayZee
    54 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    After several visits to Alexandria and walks through the church yard, was finally fortunate enough to stop by for a tour of this historic and active church. Margot met me at the door and welcomed me in for a look around or a guided tour. I accepted the tour, but others who stopped in "for a look" were not pressured into a lengthier commitment. The history of the congregation and structure kicked off the tour, followed by pointing out some specific features— many dating from Christ Church's Church-of-England roots and possessing Georgian era styling. Washington's pew was of particular interest, as he was a founding member of the congregation. A $5 donation is appreciated, pictures are welcomed, and a stop at the gift shop was an added delight. The tour was short— but lengthier for my questions. The members of the congregation who I encountered were kind and happy to share their parish with visitors.
    Written July 25, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kristin E
    6 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I visited the museum with a friend (a doctor) over the weekend. What a treat! We attended a guided tour about midwifery and the role of the apothecary, which was well-researched and well-presented. It was a particularly relevant topic during Women's History Month. The history of the apothecary and museum is fascinating. The museum is largely unchanged from what the apothecary was when it was operational. It is a small space, so it is a quick stop but well worth a visit.
    Written March 26, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • 1991KEB
    Navarre, FL1,533 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    George Washington would be proud. This hidden gem was a real touch of history. The mini museum on each floor is fun and the perfect size. The surveillance camera on the top floor was a lot of fun. The different levels were full of artifacts. Each level was unique, and I guide was very nice. Stop by. It doesn't disappoint.
    Written April 2, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • dustythoughts
    Manchester, CT2,129 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    What a wonderful, charming historical house! We had some time to spare and decided to wander through this house, and thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the history of the region, and of the Carlyle family in particular. The first floor is free to explore, and the second/third floors require a tour (which is only $8). We only did the first floor, but we did also peek at the gardens (which are gorgeous). This museum really deserves all of the positive attention it earns.
    Written March 12, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Diane S
    Fairfax Station, VA183 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is a great place to take a short nature hike on a boardwalk through wetlands. In a different section of the park, Historic Huntley is an is a small house built for George Mason's grandson showing some interesting history, particularly if you want to see how 19th century homes were constructed. We attended a park program about the solar eclipse that was well done.
    Written April 27, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sonja H
    Oklahoma City, OK10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We got there about 45 minutes before closing so we took the self guided tour after speaking with the delightful docents in the shop. They were so informative and told us what not to miss. Then when we came back down, they answered all of our questions, and we had lots of questions! Very knowledgeable staff and educational-hands on museum. Kids and adults will love playing the games and getting to touch items that is a no-no in other museums. Small, but well worth the stop!
    Written October 20, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mark H
    Irvine, CA606 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Enjoyed our visit on a mild Saturday in early December. Many squirrels were gathering or eating nuts! Several plants were still flowering. Enjoyed the holly bushes and trees. The gardens use QR codes on the woodland walk. They could also use QR codes near the main building and the historic house. Each code would point to a different webpage.
    Written December 3, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above hotel descriptions. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in one of these AI-generated descriptions is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
All Alexandria HotelsAlexandria Hotel DealsLast Minute Hotels in Alexandria
All things to do in Alexandria
Day Trips in Alexandria
RestaurantsFlightsVacation RentalsTravel StoriesCruisesRental Cars
© 2024 Tripadvisor LLC All rights reserved.

This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu.