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Summer Adventures in Old Town Alexandria

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One of my favorite places to visit, especially in the summer, is Old Town Alexandria. The King Street Mile is a great place to peruse shops and cafes, the waterfront is a beautiful place to spend a day by the Potomac River, and there are even ties to...
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Stay

Old Town Alexandria is overflowing with charm and history. These places embody the city's rich past as well as its modern culture. 

 
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The best place to stay in Old Town Alexandria, right on the King Street Mile.
Boutique Hotel | Archer Hotel Old Town Alexandria
 
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Very similar to the Archer Hotel Alexandria, The Alexandria keeps the beautiful charm of the city intact.
Old Town Alexandria Hotel | The Alexandrian, Marriott Bonvoy
 
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If you're a history buff and you love George Washington, this is your place.
The George of Old Town

Dine

As a foodie, one of my favorite things to do while on a trip is to get out and try delicious local cuisine. These are some of my favorites!

 
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HomeGrown Kitchen is a breakfast, brunch and lunch eatery featuring locally-sourced dishes with a passion for the community.
HomeGrown Kitchen | Visit Alexandria
 
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Virtue Feed & Grain is an American Tavern with modern-rustic decor and an upbeat atmosphere. Enjoy a meal on the patio, take in the view of the Potomac from the second level Porch room, relax with a cocktail in theSofa Lounge.
Virtue Feed & Grain | Visit Alexandria
 
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Offering a lively steakhouse experience, the menu features more refined, farm-to-table sensibilities with fresh, seasonal creations showcasing carefully selected ingredients.
Oak Steakhouse | Visit Alexandria
 
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Located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, Alexandria Cupcake takes pride in making the best tasting cupcakes and using the highest quality ingredients.
Alexandria Cupcake | Visit Alexandria
 
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A sophisticated yet casual French café serving local, natural, and organic products in the heart of charming Del Ray.
Del Ray Cafe | Visit Alexandria
 
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A dining experience blending the area’s finest in tastes & talents, Blackwall Hitch is a coastally inspired concept that creates a local connection. Here you’ll find seasonally driven and locally sourced food and spirits, great local music and th...
Blackwall Hitch | Visit Alexandria
 
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Captivating European cafe and wine bar serving mussels, steak frites, pate, savory and sweet crepes all in the style of Brittany, France.
Fontaine | Visit Alexandria
 
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Union Street Public House, an established tradition in Old Town, opened in 1986 in a restored colonial warehouse and has served the best in locally sourced steaks, chops and seafood ever since.
Union Street Public House | Visit Alexandria

Sip

I love cocktails that come with over-the-top garnishes and cutesy names. Here are some of the most unique cocktail bars in Old Town Alexandria! Very Instagrammable too. ;)

 
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An intimate bar, cozy booths and walls adorned with a whimsical menagerie of spectacle-clad creatures — just the backdrop for a few, well-deserved happy hours. The cocktails are hand-crafted and the plates, along with our house-made brick-oven pizzas...
AKB, hotel bar at Archer Hotel Old Town Alexandria
 
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Alice Cocktail Bar offers exceptional services that complement its theme.
Alice Cocktail Bar | Visit Alexandria
 
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In the heart of Alexandria, Coco’s Parlour is a living legend inspired by Madame Coco, an enigmatic chocolatier of the 1780s.
Welcome to Coco's Parlour
 
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From coffee to wine, pastries and soup, this place is adorable and delicious.
Cafe du Soleil
 
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Obsessed with the atmosphere, as well as the cocktails.
Home - The People's Drug
 
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Grab your favorite sip and savor attentive service, a luxe atmosphere, and live entertainment at The Study.
The Study | Modern American Restaurant in Alexandria, VA

Explore

The beginning of a nation, a city steeped in Amercian history, is Alexandria, VA. There is so much to see, learn and experience during your stay. It's definitely one of those cities that has me wondering “what if I just moved here?”

 
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The Spite House is a must-see when visiting Alexandria.
In Spite of its Size, the Queen Street Spite House Impresses - Old Town Home
 
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The City Tavern’s Ballroom was the location of George Washington’s Birthnight Ball in 1798 and 1799, as well as Thomas Jefferson’s Inaugural Banquet in 1801.
Gadsby's Tavern Museum | Visit Alexandria
 
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Built in 1753 by merchant and city founder John Carlyle. Here, five royal governors and General Braddock met to discuss funding of the French and Indian War.
Carlyle House | Visit Alexandria
 
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Providence is a reproduction of the first ship authorized to serve in the Continental Navy and John Paul Jones’ first American command.
Tall Ship Providence | Tours & Cruises
 
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This listicle provides guidance on fun things to do to truly experience the real vibe of Old Town Alexandria (and get some great photos too!)
The Ultimate Instagram Guide to Old Town Alexandria, Virginia
 
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Opened in 1792 by young Quaker pharmacist Edward Stabler, the family business operated until 1933. Patrons included George & Martha Washington. Over 15,000 objects still remain as part of the museum’s collection – everything from herbs to bottles...
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum | Visit Alexandria
 
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Old Town Farmers' Market is the oldest farmers' market in the country which has been held continuously at the same site. George Washington sent his produce from Mount Vernon to be sold at the Farmer's Market.
Farmers' Markets in Alexandria

Fit Check

Chic comfort is how I'd describe the style for this getaway. Here are some of my top picks for outfits to wear while visiting Alexandria.

 
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This summer screams summer strolls on the streets of Old Town Alexandria. So chic!
Flutter Sleeve Tiered Midi Dress | Kate Spade New York
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Imagine a warm summer Alexandria night sipping cocktails on the waterfront in this dress! I'm obsessed.
Whimsical Garden Smocked Midi Dress | Kate Spade New York
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I always love a statement piece, and this skirt is screaming summer. So adorable!
The Jacie Poplin Printed Midi Skirt by Maeve
 
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Simple and loose-fitting, yet adorable at the same time! Love this top.
Maeve Short-Sleeve Monogram Crop Top
 
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Beautiful, simple, and oh so classy! Love this handbag.
Grace Pochette | Kate Spade New York
 
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I am obsessed with these new Kate Spade sneakers! You can always bet on style and comfort with this classic brand.
K As In Kate Smooth Leather Runner | Kate Spade New York
 
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This scarf is incredibly gorgeous! Tie it to your handbag, use it as a hair accessory, or simply wear it around your neck. Class and style!
Coastal Scene Silk Square Scarf | Kate Spade New York