The historic center of Alexandria is known as Old Town. Old Town has an unexplainable vibe and colonial charm, and is an experience within itself. The area is comprised of colorful row houses on tree-lined streets dotted with gas lamps and cobblestone walks. The area offers many boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, retail stores, antique shops and theaters. It is a major draw for all who live in Alexandria as well for visitors. Old Town is a very desirable place to call home for those with an active social calendar and provides ample opportunity to enjoy the finer things in life. Walk down to the Potomac River and enjoy the fireworks on the Fourth of July, or bundle up for the holiday tree lighting in December. An Old Town resident would be hard-pressed to run out of things to do.
Like Old Town, many Alexandria neighborhoods are compact and walkable. It is the 7th largest and highest-income independent city in Virginia. Modern Alexandria has been influenced by its proximity to the U.S. capital and was voted 1 of the top 5 small cities in the U.S. Alexandria was Founded in 1749.
Old Town is located just south of D.C.(approximately 7 Miles) and occupies the southernmost part of the City of Alexandria. Route 1 and the George Washington Parkway (Washington Street) run through Old Town, while Washington’s Beltway, I-495 is seconds away. The King Street Metro and Braddock Road Metro Stations are easily accessible and there is a free trolley service that runs from the King Street Metro Station down to the waterfront. DASH bus services are also available. Reagan National Airport is right up the road.
Old town is filled with History and Charm!
Going back in time, one might have caught a glimpse of a middle-aged George Washington riding his horse up to Christ Church on the corner of Washington and Cameron Streets. Years later, Old Town became the childhood home of famed Confederate General Robert E. Lee. A slew of other notable names from both Virginia and American History add to Old Town’s lore.
Located on the western bank of the Potomac River, Old Town played an important role in the growth of our nation. Since the colonial period, Old Town has established itself as a diverse cultural center and bastion of American trade, commerce, and industry.