10 Best Things to Do in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

If you're planning a day in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, you're in for one of the most charming destinations just outside Washington, D.C. With its historic brick sidewalks, waterfront views, locally owned boutiques, incredible restaurants, and vibrant arts scene, it's easy to spend an entire day exploring.

Whether you're visiting for the weekend or you're a local looking for a new adventure, here are our favorite things to do in Old Town Alexandria.

1. Shop Along Historic King Street

No visit is complete without strolling King Street. Stretching from the Metro to the Potomac River, this walkable mile is lined with locally owned boutiques, cafés, art galleries, and restaurants. It's one of the best shopping streets in Northern Virginia and a must for anyone looking to support small businesses.

2. Find Your New Favorite Jewelry at Eliana Curated

Located at 1003 King Street, Eliana Curated is one of Old Town Alexandria's newest must-visit boutiques. The family-owned jewelry store specializes in everyday elevated jewelry, waterproof pieces, freshwater pearls, lab-created diamonds, and one-of-a-kind upcycled vintage designer jewelry handcrafted in their Alexandria studio. Whether you're shopping for a meaningful gift or treating yourself, it's the perfect stop while exploring King Street.

3. Paint Your Own Pottery at Paint This!

Looking for a fun date idea or family activity? Spend an afternoon painting pottery at Paint This!, a longtime King Street favorite. Choose from mugs, bowls, plates, ornaments, and more while creating a personalized keepsake you'll actually use.

4. Pack a Picnic for the Potomac Waterfront

Grab sandwiches, pastries, or coffee from one of Old Town's local cafés and head to the waterfront. Founders Park and Waterfront Park offer beautiful river views that are perfect for a relaxing picnic, reading a book, or watching boats pass along the Potomac.

5. Explore the Torpedo Factory Art Center

One of Alexandria's most iconic attractions, the Torpedo Factory is home to dozens of working artists and galleries where you can watch painters, ceramicists, jewelers, and sculptors create their work in real time. It's one of the country's largest collections of publicly accessible artist studios.

6. Take a Sunset Walk Along the Waterfront

As the sun begins to set, Old Town's waterfront becomes one of the most picturesque spots in Northern Virginia. Walk along the marina, enjoy live music during warmer months, or simply take in views of the Potomac River while watching the boats come and go.

7. Visit Historic Landmarks

Old Town Alexandria dates back to 1749 and is filled with American history. Tour Carlyle House, visit Gadsby's Tavern Museum, or wander the cobblestone streets to discover hidden alleyways and beautifully preserved colonial architecture.

8. Take a Water Taxi or Sightseeing Cruise

See Alexandria from a different perspective by hopping aboard a Potomac River cruise or water taxi. You can travel to Georgetown, National Harbor, or even Mount Vernon while enjoying incredible waterfront views.

9. Enjoy Brunch or Dinner Outdoors

Old Town is filled with incredible restaurants featuring outdoor patios and waterfront dining. Whether you're looking for brunch, oysters, cocktails, or a romantic dinner overlooking the river, there's no shortage of memorable places to eat.

10. Stay for Golden Hour

Our favorite time in Old Town? Just before sunset. The historic buildings glow, the waterfront comes alive, and King Street buzzes with locals and visitors alike. Grab an ice cream, browse a few more boutiques, stop into Eliana Curated for a little sparkle, and end your day with a walk along the Potomac.

Plan Your Visit to Old Town Alexandria

Old Town Alexandria offers the perfect blend of history, shopping, art, and waterfront charm. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a girls' day out, a date night, or simply searching for the best things to do near Washington, D.C., you'll quickly see why so many people fall in love with this historic neighborhood.

And if you're walking King Street, be sure to stop into Eliana Curated. We'd love to help you find a piece of jewelry that reminds you of your time in Old Town Alexandria.