Old Town Alexandria

Old Town Alexandria is a walkable, 18th-century waterfront neighborhood just across the Potomac from D.C., anchored by King Street's mile of 200+ independent shops and restaurants, landmark museums, cobblestone alleys, and a free trolley — all within one Metro stop of the capital.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What is the King Street Trolley and is it really free?

Yes — the King Street Trolley is completely free and runs 365 days a year, every 15 minutes from 11 AM to 11 PM, between the King Street–Old Town Metro station and Alexandria City Hall/Market Square. It is wheelchair-accessible and equipped with bike racks and automated stop announcements. Note: the Market Square stop is temporarily relocated to 302 King St during ongoing City Hall renovations.

How do I get to Old Town Alexandria from Washington, D.C.?

Take the Metro Blue or Yellow Line to King Street–Old Town station (about 20 minutes from downtown D.C.). From the station, board the free King Street Trolley, which runs every 15 minutes from 11 AM to 11 PM daily, connecting the Metro to City Hall and the waterfront. A City Cruises Potomac water taxi also links Old Town to the Wharf, Georgetown, and National Harbor.

Is Old Town Alexandria free to visit?

Strolling King Street, the waterfront, and parks is entirely free. Individual museums charge admission — city-operated sites run $5 per adult / $3 per child (ages 5–12) for regular admission, per the City of Alexandria. The Key to the City museum pass, sold at Historic Alexandria Museums and the Visitor Center, bundles nine sites at a discount.

How far is Old Town Alexandria from Washington, D.C.?

Old Town Alexandria sits on the Potomac River approximately 6 miles south of central Washington, D.C. By Metro (Blue or Yellow Line), the trip from downtown D.C. takes roughly 20 minutes. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is only 10–15 minutes away by car or Metro.

What are the best annual events in Old Town Alexandria?

Signature events include the Scottish Christmas Walk and Holiday Boat Parade in December, the Old Town Festival of Speed & Style, the Alexandria Art Festival, and Old Town Cocktail Week each fall. The waterfront also draws crowds for cherry blossom season in spring and Fourth of July celebrations.

Is Old Town Alexandria good for families with kids?

Yes — Old Town is safe, walkable, and full of family-friendly attractions including the Alexandria Archaeology Museum (free, inside the Torpedo Factory), boat rides on the Potomac, waterfront parks, and the free King Street Trolley. The neighborhood's grid layout and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to navigate with children.

Can I take a water taxi from Old Town Alexandria to Washington, D.C.?

Yes. City Cruises Potomac operates a water taxi with scenic seasonal service from Old Town Alexandria's waterfront to destinations including the Wharf, Georgetown, and National Harbor. Some routes double as sightseeing tours. Check the City of Alexandria's website or City Cruises for current schedules and fares.

What are the top things to do in Old Town Alexandria?

Highlights include the Torpedo Factory Art Center (82 working artist studios, free to enter), the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum (founded 1792), Gadsby's Tavern Museum (hosted the first five U.S. presidents), and the Alexandria Black History Museum. The waterfront offers boat tours and a water taxi to D.C. and National Harbor, while King Street's mile of 200+ independent shops and restaurants anchors the neighborhood.

Nearby in Ask Washington DC

• Anacostia ParkPark8.09 km · 101 min walk
• Arlington National CemeteryAttraction8.39 km · 105 min walk
• Navy Yard & The WharfNeighborhood8.41 km · 105 min walk
• Maine Avenue Fish Market (Municipal Fish Market)Market8.41 km · 105 min walk
• Yards ParkPark8.46 km · 106 min walk