4 Historic Alexandria Sites Worth a Visit

December 13, 2018 · 3 min read

Alexandria, named after John Alexander, an 18th-century Scottish landowner, was founded in 1749 and has a rich and varied history. It was one of the 10 busiest ports in America and an important tobacco trading post. While the largest slave-trading company in the country was based here, Alexandria also was home to a large free black community. During the Civil War, the city operated as a supply center for Union troops. Here are four of Alexandria's historic sites where you can trace the history of the city.

Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site

During the Civil War, a system of forts and batteries were constructed that were known as the Defenses of Washington. Fort Ward, named for the first naval officer of the Union to be killed in the Civil War, is the best-preserved of these fortifications, and some areas have been reconstructed and restored to their original condition. You can visit the fort and museum, located in a 45-acre park, and learn about Alexandria as an occupied city, and its later importance for the rights of African-Americans. There are living history programs where you get the chance to meet and talk to re-enactors portraying Civil War soldiers and civilians.

Freedom House Museum

Franklin and Armfield was once the largest slave-trading company in America, and the Freedom House Museum is housed in what was once part of the company's headquarters. The building was used as a pen for enslaved individuals being shipped to the cotton and sugar plantations of the Deep South. Exhibits will enable you to understand the harsh reality of Alexandria's role in the domestic slave trade through first-person accounts and details of the company's operations.

Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum

The Lyceum was constructed in 1839 to promote educational and cultural opportunities for the public. Among other uses, the building also served as a hospital for Civil War casualties. Now, the Alexandria History Museum houses exhibitions telling the story of Alexandria through archaeological artifacts, historic finds, maps, photographs, and original artwork. Changing exhibitions feature at the museum throughout the year.

Torpedo Factory Art Center

On the day World War I ended, work began on the construction of a U.S. naval torpedo station in Alexandria. During World War II, there was intense production of submarine and aircraft torpedoes. With this growth in production, 10 more buildings were added to the complex. After the war, the buildings were used as a storage facility until 1969 when a proposal to turn the buildings into working studio spaces for artists was accepted. In 1974, the Torpedo Factory Art Center opened to the public. More than 165 professional artists work, exhibit and sell their art here. The many galleries feature guest exhibitions and events throughout the year, and the center attracts more than half a million visitors a year. These sites and others provide an insight into a city that played an important role, not only in the history of Northern Virginia but also that of the United States. Image via Flickr by sabreguy29/Under use by CC BY 2.0

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Mar 04, 2022 in Around Town

5 Incredible Sandwich Places in Alexandria, VA

Although Virginia isn't exactly famous for its sandwiches, Alexandria, VA does boast some truly incredible sandwich places. From deli meats to succulent meatball subs, here are some of our favorite spots to eat when we're in town. Potbelly Sandwich Shop A staple of the Alexandria sandwich scene, the Potbelly Sandwich Shop showcases some of the best and most filling subs in the area. From classic meatballs to steakhouse beef and even a pizza sub, you'll always be coming back to try more. Along with a new menu that includes cookies and mac n' cheese, the company has recently increased the length of both their Original and BIG sizes - and added more fillings to boot - so now you can get even more bang for your buck. more Johnny's Sub Shop A unique crossover restaurant, Johnny's menu features both classic American subs and many Asian dishes too. Although the Chinese menu is filled with some great choices, the main focus here is definitely the subs. With a huge selection of both hot and cold subs, guests can fill up on anything from a steak and cheese sandwich to a Philadelphia hoagie. Don't fancy a sub? Johnny's also has a great menu of bun sandwiches too! Market 2 Market Another Italian deli-style sub shop, Market 2 Market sells some of the best subs in town. Packed full of Italian meats, cheeses, and oils such as prosciutto, salami, mortadella, and provolone, every sub is not only tasty but very reasonably priced too! There are also tons of hot sandwiches with fillings such as classic Italian meatballs and roasted pork. Not only that, but Market 2 Market also hosts a selection of over 200 craft beers from around the country and some great Italian wines, but please always remember that alcohol is intended only for adults of legal drinking age, and always drink responsibly and with moderation and never drive after drinking. Bun Papa Swap the standard sub offerings for some bun-based sandwiches at Bun Papa. Located on Belle View Boulevard, the chefs here rustle up some top-notch sandwiches that are packed full of fillings so you will be absolutely stuffed after just one. Dive into the mouth-watering Chicken Cordon Bleu or if you fancy something spicy then The Angry Chicken will give your taste buds the burn they desire. The restaurant also serves up some totally messy and delicious burgers too. King Street Cafe A charming little cafe located near central Alexandria, King Street Cafe is a cheaper alternative to the big sandwich shops, but still just as tasty. Sandwiches range from basic BLTs and turkey breast to some mouthwatering specialties such as the New Yorker on toasted rye and the hummus and chicken pitta wrap. So, now you know where some of our favorite sandwich spots are in Alexandria, it's time to get out there and try some. Make sure you stop by Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Alexandria to let us know what you think and maybe get that essential service too.

Oct 01, 2021 in Around Town

6 Favorite Italian Restaurants in and Around Alexandria, VA

Alexandria, VA is nationally recognized for its impressive history, beautiful architecture, and delicious dining options. If you find yourself craving Italian food, make sure to check out some of our favorite Italian restaurants in and around Alexandria! 1. Landini Brothers Landini Brothers is located in Alexandria and has been preparing traditional Tuscan meals since 1979. The restaurant's dinner menu includes antipasti, minestre, insalate, pasta, pesce, vitello, pollo, manzo, and sides. Available pastas include fettucine Alfredo, penne alla romana, tortellini alla panna, linguine alle pescatora, agnolotti alla fiorentina, and linguine alle vongole bianche o rosse. Available sides include spinach, asparagus, risotto, creamed kale, and pasta. more 2. Aldo's Italian Kitchen Aldo's Italian Kitchen is located in Alexandria and provides authentic Italian food that is inspired by the cuisine of Parma, Italy. The restaurant's menu includes pizzas, pastas, antipasti, soups, salads, vegetables, meat and fish entrees, and desserts. Available pastas include rigatoni contadina, eggplant parmagiana, spaghetti with meatballs, ravioli, penne with pesto and grilled chicken, and linguini with clams. Available vegetables include French beans and spinach. 3. A La Lucia A La Lucia is located in Alexandria and is open on Mondays-Thursdays from 5:00p.m.-9:00p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 5:00p.m.-9:30p.m., and on Sundays from 4:00p.m.-9:00p.m. The restaurant's menu includes pizzas, salads, soups, antipasti, pastas, main courses, and daily specials. Available main courses include salmon with fresh tomatoes, basil, and pine nuts, chicken parmesan with tomato sauce, and your choice of pasta with tomato sauce. 4. RedRocks Pizza Napoletana RedRocks Pizza Napoletana is open on Mondays-Thursdays from 11:00a.m.-9:00p.m., on Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00a.m.-10:00p.m., and on Sundays from 11:00a.m.-9:00p.m. The restaurant's menu includes starters, Neapolitan pizzas, NY pizzas, salads, and pastas. Available Neapolitan pizzas include a Margherita pizza, a pepperoni pizza, a pomodoro pizza, a burrata pizza, an eggplant pizza, a spinachi pizza, and a build-your-own pizza. 5. Il Porto Il Porto is located in Alexandria and has been serving fine Italian cuisine since 1973. The restaurant is open on Mondays-Fridays from 11:30a.m.-10:00p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00a.m.-10:00p.m. The restaurant's dinner menu includes antipasti, insalata, pasta, pesce, vitello, pollo, and accompaniments. Available antipasti include calamari fritti, burrata all caprese, zuppa del giorno, portobello con burrata, and antipasto della casa. 6. Mia's Italian Kitchen Mia's Italian Kitchen is located in Alexandria and serves authentic, from-scratch Italian food. The restaurant's menu includes starters, salads, sandwiches, homemade pastas, specialties, pizzas, and sweets. Available specialties include eggplant parmigiana, chicken parmigiana, chicken piccata, and roasted mushroom lasagna. Available sweets include gelatos and sorbets, tiramisu, cannolis, and apple-ricotta donuts. Once you've gotten your fill of pasta, pizza, and bread and your stomach is happy, it is a great time to search for the new car you've been wanting. Stop by Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Alexandria today and look through our expansive selection of Jeeps, Chryslers, Dodges, Rams, and Wagoneers! Customer satisfaction is our top priority and we will do our best to help you find the perfect vehicle for you and make sure that it is a fair price.

Sep 17, 2021 in Around Town

6 Incredible Outdoor Activities Near Alexandria, VA

There are almost too many reasons why you should visit Alexandria, VA. In 2020 Alexandria was honored to be rated as one of the best small towns in America by Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards. Whether you're a history fanatic, lover of old architecture, or an art enthusiast, Alexandria will blow your mind. It also appeals to people who love to spend their time outside. 1. Potomac Riverboat Company With the Potomac Riverboat Company, you can go sightseeing beyond the borders of Alexandria as they take you to the most famous monuments along the river. Also, fancy dinner parties and private events can be hosted on their cruise along with a night trip on the boat where fireworks can be seen while drifting down the river. more 2. United States Botanic Garden If you love the smell of roses then you'll definitely want to make the trip to Washington, D.C to visit this majestic garden. This beautiful sight sits just across the river and only 15 minutes away from Alexandria. 3. Eastern Market Also in Washington, D.C. is the Eastern Market. The people from Washington and nearby towns come here to share their talents and favorite hobbies with anyone and everyone. Here you can find baked goods, fresh deli meat, and handmade art and crafts. 4. Riverside Park Get away from all the people and buildings and enjoy the natural views that Riverside Park has to offer! Fall is right around the corner so bike riders, joggers, and wildlife junkies can come here and take in the colorful foliage. 5. Korean War Veterans Memorial Located in Washington, D.C. is the memorial that honors everyone who lost their lives fighting for our freedom in the Korean War. Take a day to stroll down West Potomac Park and see this gorgeous memorial. 6. Dora Kelley Nature Park If you're a fan of birds such as eagles, hawks, or owls then you'll want to spend some time at this natural beauty. Waterfalls, streams, and a beautiful bridge in the middle of the woods sounds like a dream come true for nature lovers. 7. Great Falls Park Pack your bag and tie those shoes because if you're looking for a hike, Great Falls Park is the place to be! This park is on the banks of the Potomac River and also takes up 800 acres of land. This trail is 23 miles long so if you plan on completing the hike in one trip make sure to bring plenty of water! 8. Theodore Roosevelt Island A piece of history and scenic views can be seen all at once at Theodore Roosevelt island which was once called Mason's Island. Along with sightseeing and learning about Roosevelt's history, you can take a canoe or kayak around the island to see how big it really is! After spending a day taking in the fresh air go visit Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Alexandria to find the car that is right for you!