About Old Town Alexandria

Old Town Alexandria is a charming and picturesque neighborhood located in the city of Alexandria, Virginia. It is situated along the banks of the Potomac River and is just a short distance from Washington, D.C. The area is well-known for our well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture like Cameron House.  We have a rich history, making it a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.

 

Old Town is also a great place to dine and shop. The district is home to a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and specialty shops, and many of them are housed in historic buildings. Visitors can find everything from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants and can enjoy a wide variety of cuisines, including American, Mediterranean, and Italian.  All within walking distance from Cameron House.

Local Sights

George Washington Masonic National Memorial

Feeling a little mysterious?  Follow the footsteps of National Treasures and visit George Washington's Masonic Temple.  A must-see for history buffs and secret seekers. 

The first and second floors are freely open to the public; docent-led tours of the upper floors occur every hour. When you’re on the second floor, be sure to check out the statue of George Washington in Masonic regalia, as well the Memorial Hall and the Memorial Theater, both of which served as filming locations for — you guessed it —  National Treasure: Book of Secrets.

Christ Church

Just up the street is Christ Church - another Old Town Alexandria landmark that is worth visiting. It was built in 1773 and is the oldest church in Alexandria. See President George Washington and Robert E. Lee's pews - still plaqued with their names.  For cemetery buffs, the graveyard does not dissapoint.

The Carlyle House

Cameron House directly overlooks the Carlyle House - another historic site in Old Town Alexandria that is worth visiting. How could you not!  She is your direct neighbor...This 18th-century mansion was built by John Carlyle, a wealthy merchant, and offers a glimpse into the lives of the upper-class residents of Alexandria during the colonial era. The house features beautiful gardens, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the property and the Carlyle family.

Alexandria City Hall

Another popular attraction in Old Town Alexandria is the Alexandria City Hall, a beautiful 18th-century building that serves as the seat of government for the city. Visitors can take a tour of the building and learn about its rich history, including its role as a hospital during the Civil War.  Do not miss lively the Farmers Market every Saturday.  Operating since 1753 and America's longest serving Farmers Market - George Washington used to bring his fruits and vegetables from Mount Vernon.

Southern Living Magazine

Why Alexandria, Virginia, Is The Ideal Weekend Getaway

Alexandria, Virginia, maybe a quaint, convenient landing spot for D.C. commuters, but the small town has a personality all its own. The waterfront town ticks all the boxes: It's easily walkable, full of locally owned shops and businesses, and bursting with historic charm, especially in the winter months (it's even earned the title of the perfect town for a Hallmark Christmas movie).

Visit Alexandria Magazine

Old Town is Alexandria’s beloved downtown and nationally designated historic district on the Potomac River waterfront. The King Street Mile and surrounding brick-lined sidewalks are studded with centuries-old architecture, historic attractions and independent businesses. Old Town is the heart of Alexandria, located just minutes from Washington, D.C., voted one of Travel + Leisure’s Best Cities in the U.S. 2022 and a Condé Nast Traveler 

Washingtonion

A nationally designated historic district, Old Town Alexandria is a welcoming escape on the Potomac River in Virginia.

Old Town Alexandria hums with more than 200 independent restaurants and boutiques alongside intimate historic site museums and happenings right on the waterfront. Visitors will enjoy a walkable downtown lined with beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture.

Mount Vernon

Hop on a bike and ride to Mount Vernon on the scenic Mount Vernon Trail just outside Cameron House.

It takes about one hour to travel between Mount Vernon and Alexandria, Virginia (about 10 miles).
Ride in style with Pedego Electric Bike rentals. Available right around the corner from Cameron House.  Pack a picnic lunch (and don't forget a bottle of wine from Cameron Cellar) and enjoy the afternoon at at George Washington's estate.