Alexandria

Just 25 minutes south of Washington, DC, is historic Alexandria, Virginia. This vibrant city is home to 160,000 residents and blends 18th and 19th-century architecture with modern luxury homes. Its charming character and unique neighborhoods make for a very diverse small city, with many different options to call home. Alexandria was named one of America’s Top 5 Best Small Cities in 2020.

 

Several notable neighborhoods include Old Town, Del Rey, Hayfield Farm, Cameron Station, Kingstowne, Rosemont, Mount Vernon, and Fort Hunt. Each of these neighborhoods is nestled within Alexandria city limits, but each one offers a distinctive lifestyle. 

 

• Charming neighborhoods and homes with dynamic character.
• Small-town atmosphere but close to city amenities.
• Neighborhoods with unique features, like Old Town’s cobblestone streets.
  
  

Living in Alexandria, Virginia, is like stepping back in time, but with modern amenities. The area is highly historic, known for its century-old homes, museums, and colonial spirit. Residents enjoy the many diverse events and activities in the area that celebrate both history and contemporary life in small-town America. Alexandria is a popular spot for young professionals, students, families, and retirees — there’s something for everyone in this beautiful and charming historic district. 

 

Alexandria is packed with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local culture and experience exclusive shopping among its neighborhoods. Local residents love dining at Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant and Bar in Old Town for traditional Irish fare and excellent beer options. Another Old Town favorite is the fun Hen Quarter, offering mouth-watering Southern cuisine served family-style with Southern hospitality. After dinner, stop at The Creamery, the oldest ice cream shop in Alexandria, which offers over 30 flavors handmade each day.

 

Support Alexandria’s local shops along King Street in Old Town, which is home to the largest collection of independent stores in the Washington, DC area. From designer fashion boutiques to carefully curated antique shops, you can find everything you’re looking for (and more) along King Street. 

 

Alexandria hosts many different festivals each year. One of the most popular is the Old Town Art Festival, a huge arts and crafts show featuring local and regional artists. The festival has been so well received that Alexandria added another festival in the spring. An additional festival option is Vine on the Waterfront, the Alexandria Food and Wine Festival, which is held every summer. A community culinary event, this festival is attended by well over 10,000 residents seeking the best of the best local food options. 

Spend the day exploring George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Experience what life was like for the first President of the United States. Tour his mansion and the grounds and grab a bite to eat at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant. 

 

Looking for pet-friendly options? Visit Brewski’s Barkhaus, DC’s first dog-friendly restaurant. They also have an off-leash indoor and outdoor dog park. The Dog Games, an Olympic-style event held in August, supports the Special Olympics and allows your pup to show off their favorite tricks for prizes. They even have a costume contest!

 

Alexandria is served by multiple school districts and private schools in the area. A few of these schools include: