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The 2021 Dodge Durango is here to prove that SUVs aren't just for your commute to work. This incredibly powerful vehicle has gotten some improvements this year, which have transformed this Durango into an even more robust vehicle. The Durango's Basics This is one seriously powerful SUV. If you're looking for a car that won't just get you from place to place, but that can also perform those heavy-duty jobs, then the new Dodge Durango has your back. Just one look at the new Durango, released in 2020, will demonstrate the incredible muscle that this car packs. You'll be impressed by its bold look, fantastic performance, and fun new features. more The Durango's Pricing Options There's a trim level for everyone when you buy the 2021 Durango. If you only want the vehicle's basics, go with the SXT for $33,470, or the SXT Plus for $37,375. The GT model will cost you about $37,840, and the GT Plus will cost you $41,840. While all these trim options offer some fantastic features, if you really want something special then consider one of the high-end models. The R/T will run you about $47,090, and the Citadel will be about $49,590. The Durango's Engine There are two engines available for the 2021 Durango, and either one of them will provide you with some serious strength. The car comes standard with a 295-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 engine. This is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. You also have the choice of going with the Durango's 360-horsepower 5.7-liter V-8 engine. You'll also get great towing capacity. The V-6 engine can tow up to 6,200 pounds, and if you go with the impressive V-8 engine you'll be able to haul up to 8,700 pounds. The Durango's Technology Built to perform well while also keeping you safe, the Durango has several impressive safety features. You'll be getting Dodge's Fast Brake feature which makes sure you always brake in time. You'll also have All-Speed Traction Control which helps you take turns with ease. If you want to connect to your vehicle, then the Durango's integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make it easy and fast to do so. The Durango's Interior You'll be delighted by the 2021 Durango's comfortable and high-quality materials. The seating is supportive and made with great-quality upholstery materials. The layout of the cabin is intuitive and user-friendly, not to mention its overall good looks. The 2021 Durango also has plenty of room, which is important if you're looking at SUVs. You and your passengers will have lots of room to stretch your legs, and there's plenty of space for storage. If you need room for larger items, then the seats can easily be folded down. The Dodge Durango is the epitome of power, and the 2021 Durango has transformed a vehicle that was already impressive even something even better. If you'd like to learn more about this car, then visit us at Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Alexandria today to check it out for yourself.

Alexandria, VA may be a small city, but with over 100 independently-owned boutique shops and local restaurants, there is plenty to see and do. One of the most appealing features of Alexandria is its charming aesthetic. The picturesque cobblestone streets and attractive row houses make it an ideal setting for posting up in a cafe to get some work done, meet up with a friend, or simply people-watch. Read on to discover our favorite coffee shops in Alexandria. 1. Misha's Coffeehouse and Roaster The ambiance of a coffeehouse is almost as important as the quality of the coffee, and Misha's is well aware of that. Think warm, red walls, soothing jazz music, the earthy smell of roasted coffee, and the steady hum of conversation and productivity. In addition to their in-house roasted coffee, Misha's also serves a variety of pastries. Unless you arrive early, you should expect to take your coffee to go, as Misha's is a popular spot and is often crowded. more 2. Swing's Coffee Roasters With three locations in the D.C. area, Swing's is a D.C. staple. The Del Ray location in Alexandria is located in a lofty, industrial building that serves as the perfect workspace or coffee date spot. Swing's coffee roastery is attached to the coffee bar, and several large windows behind the register overlook the roasting production. Seating is limited, so again, you may want to arrive early. 3. St. Elmo's Coffee Pub St. Elmo's Coffee Pub has two locations: one in the Del Ray neighborhood and one in Old Town North. St. Elmo's offers a larger variety of food than competing coffeehouses, making it an appealing option if you hope to stop in over breakfast or lunch. They also offer a sizable beverage menu that includes smoothies, hot chocolate, assorted teas, and even kombucha. If you don't plan to eat in you can order food and drinks to go via Toast. 4. Dolci Gelati Primarily a gelato shop, Dolci Gelati also serves locally roasted coffee and espresso drinks. Specialty gelato flavors such as honey mascarpone fig and kettle corn set Dolci Gelati apart from other ice cream options in the area. If you're also planning to visit the Alexandria waterfront, Dolci Gelati is an ideal option -- once you get your caffeine and sugar fix, you need only walk five minutes to the Old Town Alexandria Waterfront Park. 5. Fontaine Caffe & Creperie If you snag an outdoor table at this French-style creperie, Fontaine is a great location for people-watching. The menu features both savory and sweet crepes, along with other French-inspired dishes, and a limited coffee selection featuring drip coffee, cappuccinos, espresso, and hot or iced lattes. They also have an impressive beer and wine menu, but if you imbibe, drink responsibly, and only if you are of legal drinking age. And please, never drink and drive. Now that you know about some of the best spots for a coffee or a bite to eat in Alexandria, you'll need a way to get there so that you can try them for yourself. Visit Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Alexandria today to find the best new or used car for your needs.

Say hello to the 2021 Dodge Challenger, a classic muscle car that stays true to its iconic roots.  Its appealing and modern design ensure you leave an impression no matter where you go. Powerful and agile, the Challenger always elicits gasp when it's out on the racetrack. Here's a closer look at five impressive features of the 2021 Dodge Challenger. Engine Lineup When you talk muscle cars, you first have to talk about the muscle. The Challenger has five engines to choose from, starting with the base 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine. Dodge pairs this with its TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission to get 303 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque. The R/T trim uses a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine that ups the power game to 375 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. more The R/T Scat Pack trim uses Dodge's 392 HEMI V-8 engine. This powertrain gets a best-in-class 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. Not to be outdone, the SRT Hellcat comes with a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 engine that delivers an impressive 717 horsepower and 656 pound-feet of torque. A high-output version of this 6.2-liter engine in the SRT Hellcat Redeye trims cranks out a monstrous 797 horsepower and 707 pound-feet of asphalt-tearing torque. Widebody Package A Widebody Package that combines performance with attitude is standard on the SRT Super Stock and available on the R/T Scat Pack, SRT Hellcat, and SRT Hellcat Redeye trims. The Widebody Package includes 20-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tires for maximum lateral and straight-line grip. Its broader stance features flared fenders for a stylish appearance. Brembo performance brakes and an adaptive damping suspension system keep all that power under control. Power Chiller The SRT trims feature a power-chiller that diverts air conditioning refrigerant from the cabin through a low-temp radiator at the front of the vehicle and then to the chiller unit. Once cooled, the air travels to the heat exchangers, which significantly cools intake air for increased engine performance. A line-lock feature locks the front tires but keeps the rear tires free to burn some rubber. Your smoke shows will be the envy of everyone. Launch Control and Launch Assist A launch control system lets you set your engine to its optimal rpm and waits for you to release the brakes. The Challenger's torque management system optimizes maximum straight-line traction and limits wheel slip. The launch assist system monitors wheel slips to resolve wheel hop issues. When detected, the system reduces torque without you having to raise the throttle, lessening driveline loads by up to 20%. Race Cool Down After shutting the engine down, your race cool-down feature keeps the cooling fan and low-temp coolant pump running. This feature allows the supercharger to lower its air cooler temperature. You can track the temperature on the SRT Performance Pages to determine when your supercharger has reached its optimal temperature for another race. There are so many features on the 2021 Dodge Challenger that impress. To see them all, you can schedule a test drive at Ourisman CDJR today.

Getting some exercise is good for your mental and physical health. It can also be fun and relaxing for kids or adults. Here are some of the best places near Alexandria where you can work out. Refresh Yoga Center At Refresh Yoga Center, you can take in-person or online classes. You can choose a physically challenging class or a slower, more meditative experience. There's a four-week series of classes for beginners to help you learn the fundamentals of yoga. There's also a prenatal yoga class, a restorative class with lots of gentle stretches, a class for seniors, and one designed to strengthen the muscles in your abdomen, hips, and back. You can choose the Slow Flow class to spend more time on each pose as well. A full-body workout class to complement the yoga is available. Refresh Yoga Center also offers Reiki massages. After your class, you can enjoy a relaxing walk along the Potomac River. more Zweet Sport Zweet is Dutch for “to sweat or perspire,” and you'll definitely have a chance to do that here. There are two Zweet Sport studios only a few blocks from each other, and members can visit either location. You can enjoy hot yoga, indoor cycling, personal training, and small group fitness classes. You can also get nutritional consultation from a holistic nutritionist to make sure you're getting all the vitamins your body needs for a great workout. You can even train as a yoga teacher. The Pilates Powerhaus The Pilates Powerhaus offers classes for clients of all ages and abilities, from elite athletes to people with chronic or debilitating health issues. Online or in-person classes are available, or you can choose private instruction. This form of exercise is designed to work your entire body, and it's an excellent way to get in shape. The Dora Kelley Nature Park The Dora Kelley Nature Park covers 50 acres, and it's a great place to go running, biking, or hiking. You could see bald eagles, barred owls, several species of woodpeckers, and other birds. There are also several species of frogs and turtles. Sportrock Climbing Center This large gym offers indoor and outdoor climbing classes for kids and adults. It also has 57 rope stations with a variety of routes to climb and an extensive bouldering area. Sportrock has been open since 1994, and they have the tallest climbing walls in the Mid-Atlantic region. Their 3,200-square-foot fitness center has the only multi-pitch training ledge in the country. There's also a separate climbing area for kids. You can visit from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on most days and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Regular exercise can help you reduce stress, stay healthy, and look great. It's also an excellent way to have fun with family members or friends, explore nature, and learn some new fitness routines. In Alexandria, you can work out by yourself or with a group, and you can choose to push yourself hard or just focus on having a good time at these excellent places.

When you work hard, you need a truck that can keep up. Meet the 2021 Ram 1500, one of the hardest working trucks on the road. It's loaded with features that make your job easier. Let's take a closer look at four of the best features of the 2021 Ram 1500 that make it perfect for any job. Capable Driving Performance The Ram 1500 offers five powerful engine options. When the base 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine puts out over 300 horsepower and can tow up to 7,730 pounds, you know you've got some serious power options. A 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine comes naturally aspirated or as a mild hybrid, but either way, it pumps out 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. Towing capacity jumps to 11,610 and 12,750 pounds, respectively. more A 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine gives you outstanding balance, with an efficient 260 horsepower and an impressive 480 pound-feet of torque. Its ability to tow up to 12,560 pounds makes it an ideal workhorse. The Ram 1500 lineup's real beast is the Ram 1500 TRX trim's 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 engine. This powertrain can take on any job, anywhere, with its monstrous 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Smart Towing Technology Towing is more than hooking up a trailer and heading out. That's why Ram continues to innovate with features like trailer tow power-fold mirrors with 360-degree surround-view cameras. Trailer light checks and trailer tire pressure monitors keep you abreast of vital trailer statistics. Once you're on the road with your trailer, a trailer sway control system and hill start assist system make towing easier and safer. Your blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert systems cover your trailer as well. A trailer reverse-steering control system simplifies backing up your trailer. By turning the steering knob in your center stack, the system controls your steering wheel. Turn the knob in the direction you need your trailer to go, and the system does the rest. Ram also offers a trailer wiring system to add two cameras to your trailer for added visibility. Unique Multi-Functioning Tailgate If you've ever towed a trailer, then you know after hooking up, you can't open the tailgate to get gear in and out of the truck bed. Not anymore. Now, with Ram's multi-function tailgate, you can take advantage of the 60/40 swing-away doors. These doors also allow for fork-lift loading, loading of bulky items, and easy step-up access. The tailgate folds down traditionally and holds up to 2,000 pounds. Hard Working Frame and Suspension The Ram 1500 uses a high-strength steel frame that can carry up to 2,300 pounds in the bed. Opt for the class-exclusive air suspension system, and lower your Ram 1500 on the highway to reduce drag and improve efficiency. The lowering capability makes loading and unloading easier too. A snowplow prep kit is available for those working in wintry conditions. With so many great features, the 2021 Ram 1500 is one of the hardest working trucks on the road. Schedule a test drive today and see for yourself which features will make your workday a breeze.

The quaint city of Alexandria, Virginia, lies nestled against the Potomac River and has a spectacular view of Washington, D.C. The city's 18th- and 19th-century architectural charm captures its rich history, and its residents offer friendly, welcoming smiles to everyone. Whether you live in the area or you're on vacation, there's so much to see and do. Here's a look at some unique, fun things to do in Alexandria. George Washington Masonic National Memorial The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is a truly unique building, although not one-of-a-kind. It was built in the early 20th century and is modeled after the ancient Egyptian Alexandria Lighthouse, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. This magnificent national memorial contains a museum, concert hall, research facility, library, and even a giant 17-foot tall statue of George Washington watching over the entrance. more Gadsby's Tavern Museum A visit to Gadsby's Tavern Museum offers a peek into life during the late 1700s. Gadsby's was the tavern where locals met to discuss business or simply have a little fun dancing or catching a theatrical performance. Many notable people visited Gadsby's, including Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and George Washington. Today, the property is part museum, part hotel. You can learn about the clothing, food, and style of life in the 18th century. Old Town A visit to Alexandria wouldn't be complete without an excursion to Old Town. The Potomac River runs along one side of this historic section of town, and the cobblestone streets make the perfect place for a casual stroll. Old Town is packed with shops, museums, and restaurants to suit almost any taste. When you get tired of walking, you can hop on the King Street Trolley. These buses travel between the Potomac waterfront and the King Street Metro Rail Station. The ride is free, and you can hop off wherever you like by pulling the bell cord. Mount Vernon George Washington's impact on our country is seen all over Alexandria, but Mount Vernon definitely gives us a deeper look at the man than any other monument or museum. Mount Vernon was the plantation home where Washington spent some of the most important times of his life. Touring the estate will take you through the life and times of George Washington as history recalls him and offers a visit to his final resting place. Hundreds of artifacts are on display, including his dentures, and the estate itself is a beautifully preserved property all on its own. Torpedo Factory Art Center The artists of Washington, D.C, have reclaimed a former torpedo factory. Today, it houses the Alexandria Archaeology Museum, two workshop spaces, seven galleries, and 82 local artists' studios. You can browse the sculptures, handmade jewelry, paintings, blown glass, and more, and don't hesitate to purchase those pieces that speak to you. There's so much history to explore in Alexandria, and it isn't as hard to do as you might think. The next time you feel like exploring, visit one of these five places. Image via Pixabay

With updates throughout and a new hybrid engine, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica has arrived. If you're looking for something spacious enough for the entire family without sacrificing fuel economy, then don't hesitate to check out this van. Here are the top three advancements on the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Hybrid Technology and Power The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is equipped with the latest and greatest hybrid technology. You'll receive a gas driving range of up to 488 miles, with an electric driving range of 32 miles to give you a total range of up to 520 miles and a combined rating of up to 84 MPGe. This means that you and your family can spend more time exploring, traveling, and just living life in general without stopping at the pump. more Power is generated by a powerful lithium-ion battery, which can regenerate its charge in as little as two hours. With a 3.6-liter V-6 engine and two electric motors paired with the lithium-ion battery, you'll have plenty of power as well, with up to 260 horsepower. That's rather impressive for a hybrid. Easy Charging Options Whether you're trying to find a charging solution for on the go or at home, the Pacifica Hybrid has you covered. You can schedule a time for an in-home installation that works for you, and a professional installer will head out, courtesy of Amazon, to fit your home with a hybrid charging station. Your battery can even charge itself on the road, thanks to regenerative braking. This method captures the used energy from the brakes and sends it back to the battery. You can stop at one of the many public charging stations for a quick charge on the go or even for a stop while on a long trip to get your battery the power it needs to continue. No matter how you decide to charge your Pacifica Hybrid, you'll find convenient options that fit into your schedule. Uconnect 4 System An updated Uconnect 4 System provides you with a better look at your Pacifica Hybrid and provides plenty of entertainment for the family. The large 10.1-inch touch-screen display will show you options such as your battery charge level, climate information, and driving history. And, by using the Uconnect app, you can see charging progress, find a charging station, and do, even more, all on your phone. An available Uconnect Theater gets you two seat-back-mounted 10-inch HD touch screens with dual HDMI inputs, a Blu-Ray player, wireless streaming, Bluetooth remotes, and wireless headphones to help keep your backseat passengers entertained while on the road. You'll also find an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, and even the Uconnect Market so you can purchase fuel, food, or even find a parking spot while on the road. To get a look at the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid for yourself, come check out our inventory here at Ourisman CDJR. Our knowledgeable, friendly sales team can get you set up for a test drive and answer any questions you might have.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy around Alexandria, and fishing is one of them. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to fish from shore or a big lake where you can take the family out in the boat, you're sure to find something. Grab the appropriate fishing license and gear and head out to these four secret fishing spots to check out near Alexandria, Virginia. Mason Neck State Park Just a short distance away in Lorton, you'll find the Mason Neck State Park. This is a full-service park with a picnic area, playground, hiking trails, three miles of paved multi-use trails, and a visitor center. There's also a place to rent bicycles, kayaks, and canoes. The park offers access to Belmont Bay and Kane's Creek for those looking to fish. You'll find brackish and fresh fish at the end of your poles when you haul in the big one. Be sure you have a valid fishing license from either Maryland or Virginia before you cast away. more Leesylvania State Park Another great full-service park is the Leesylvania State Park in nearby Woodbridge. You can check out the visitor center and gift shop as well as purchase food at the snack bar and store as a part of your trip. Leesylvania offers a picnic area, hiking trails, and a playground, but the best part for those who wish to fish is the universally accessible fishing pier on the Potomac River. The Potomac is well-known for its bass, but there are also perch and catfish for the taking. The park offers both a car-top launch for smaller boats, such as kayaks and canoes and a boat launch area that provides two separate ramps and sailboat hoists. Motorboats are allowed to launch from the park as well. If you don't have your own boat, you can rent a sailboat from the Northern Virginia Sailing School at the park. Allen Pond Park Crossing the state line into Maryland, you'll discover Allen Pond Park and its 10-acre stocked pond. This park offers a fitness trail, picnic sites, two playgrounds, walking and biking trail, a fitness trail, ball fields, and a basketball court. It's also where you'll find the Bowie Ice Arena, Bowie Skate Park, and Robert V. Setera Amphitheater. For those interested in fishing, the park offers boat rentals to help you get out on the pond. Please note that all anglers must have a valid Maryland fishing license with the added trout stamp to enjoy the pond, which is stocked several times a year by the Department of Natural Resources. Centennial Park Centennial Park, located in Ellicott City, Maryland, is another excellent place to catch some fish. You can enjoy the pavilions, picnic area, 2.6-mile paved path, or the 7.3 miles of interconnecting trails. The park also offers concessions, general store items, and boat rental through the Adventure Shack & Rentals from spring to early fall. Castaway, and you may come up with a tiger muskie, sunfish, trout, or bass from the 54-acre man-made lake, stocked by the State Department of FIsheries. Pack your tackle box, grab your fishing gear, and make sure you have the appropriate license, and then get out and fish.   Image via Pixabay

The Jeep brand is synonymous with off-roading. In 2021 Jeep has not one but two heavy hitters on the off-roading front, the all-new Gladiator, and the classic Wrangler. Let's look at the off-road features on the 2021 Gladiator and 2021 Wrangler. Traction Going off-road effectively is all about traction and getting that power to the ground. Both the 2021 Gladiator and 2021 Wrangler feature the Rock-Trac 4x4 system available with full-time as well as part-time four-wheel-drive, giving you outstanding control and more torque than any Wrangler before. Jeep offers a 4:1 gear ratio, providing an 84:1 crawl ratio, Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials front and rear, and an electronic front sway bar disconnect to help you tackle all off-road terrains, including rock crawling. Then there's the part-time Command-Trac 4x4 system available for the Wrangler that offers a 2.72:1 low gear ratio range for crawling rocks and neutral for flat towing. Also available on the Wrangler is the Selec-Trac 4x4 system that automatically drops to two-wheel drive on clear roads or four-wheel drive when conditions get more difficult. Finally, on the Gladiator, the rear axle can be locked into 4HI mode so you can get more speed in the sand dunes. more Handling Obstacles True off-roading has many obstacles, water being among them, and whether you choose the Wrangler or Gladiator, they can handle fording. Both feature a high air intake, special water sealing, and moisture-resistant body openings so that going through water isn't a problem. Tight corners, rocks, and logs aren't a problem because each Jeep features precision steering systems and optimized wheelbases to get you around and through tight spots. When going over uneven terrain, your vehicle needs to be able to articulate enough to keep the wheels on the ground. On these Jeeps, the high levels of axle articulation and quality suspension keeps the wheels planted. Maybe you don't want to go around those rocks and logs? Instead, you want to go over them. The ample ground clearance with lifts and large tires on both vehicles will help you do just that with up to 11.1 inches of clearance. If you go with the automatic transmission, both vehicles come standard with Selec-Speed control, which manages your speed in 4LO much like cruise control does on the highway. Torque and brake pressure automatically adjust to optimize performance while minimizing driver input. Optimized for the Trail Throttle, transmission shift points, and traction control can all be optimized to speed through the sand dunes or crawl at lower speeds with the simple press of the Off-Road+ button that comes as standard equipment. Even though these are both built to clear obstacles, sometimes that just isn't possible. The Wrangler and Gladiator provide high-strength steel skid plates that cover key underbody components so it can take a hit and keep on going. Even though these are off-road beasts, you still want to protect the aesthetics, and rock rails help prevent damage from contact or debris. To check out the off-road features for yourself on the 2021 Gladiator or Wrangler, stop down to Ourisman CDJR. A helpful member of our staff would be happy to show you around.

Alexandria, Virginia, is on the Potomac River, just south of Washington, D.C. It's known for its Old Town style, with brick sidewalks and well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings. Alexandria is also known for its fun nightlife and great restaurants, but finding a restaurant to meet your dietary needs can be challenging. Often choosing to eat vegan or gluten-free will provide obstacles in finding restaurants. Well, these restaurants do not disappoint. All of these restaurants offer vegan options on their menu. These three delicious vegan restaurants near Alexandria, Virginia, are worth a try. Busboys and Poets Busboys and Poets is a restaurant that opened in 2005 by owner Andy Shallal, an artist and restaurateur. It was named after American poet Langston Hughes, who was a poet and a busboy. Busboys and Poets have a variety of options to choose from on their menu and label items as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free-friendly to assist those with food allergies and preferences. Check out their vegan quesadilla or nachos for the lighter appetites. Enjoy a vegan crispy chicken salad made with soy protein, tomato, lettuce, and vegan harissa aioli on a brioche bun, or a portobello panini with grilled onions, arugula, roasted red peppers, vegan pesto, and vegan mozzarella on ciabatta bread. In the mood for a burger? Try the vegan burger, black bean patty topped with avocado, arugula, tomato, and vegan chipotle mayo on a brioche bun. Busboys and Poets will soon become your new favorite spot for vegan options. more Hawwi Ethiopian Restaurant | Home (hawirestaurant.com) The Hawwi Ethiopian Restaurant is an experience, and eating there is genuinely delightful. The menu is full of traditional Ethiopian dishes for you to enjoy. Although the menu is not explicitly marked with vegan choices, there are a few delicious dishes available for those who prefer to lead a vegan lifestyle. Start with the falafel hummus, a deep-fried ball made with hummus, pita bread, and ground chickpeas. From there, move on to either a classic lentil soup or the timatim salad made with red onion, tomato, jalapeno, olive oil, and a special dressing. Finally, finish your meal with the vegan sampler or the veggie mix, portobello mushroom sauteed in a red pepper sauce with garlic, onion, and rosemary, served with spinach, potato, house salad on injera or basmati rice, and tofu. You'll leave Hawwi full and happy every time. The Lotus Bar If you're looking for a family-friendly, authentic Vietnamese restaurant, then look no further than this hidden gem. The Lotus Bar has noodles for all with a menu that includes a large selection of vegan options. Check out the Lotus Bar for a fantastic meal of potstickers and vegan entrees. From the appetizer menu, be sure to try the tofu summer rolls with tofu, vermicelli, lettuces, and basil in rice paper, or the vegetarian spring rolls. Check out the Buddha's delight stir-fried with mixed vegetables and tofu, or the soft noodles with tofu and peanuts. Finding the right restaurant can make or break the night, and finding vegan options can be frustrating. Enjoy trying these excellent vegan entrees in Old Town Alexandria.   Image via Pixabay by Engin_Akyurt

Did you know that dealerships have demonstrator cars and trucks that they often sell at lower prices than new cars? These demos can be a good deal, offering a lower price for a new vehicle. You just need to take a good look at it and weigh the pros and cons of your situation. If you are looking to get the most for your money, make sure to ask your dealer about their demonstrator cars and see if you can find a great buy. What Is a Demo Car? Dealerships often use demo cars for buyers to take on a test drive when a popular new model is not available. In some cases, the dealership managers will also use these cars to commute to and from work. The car is still considered new, but it has a few more miles on it than one that's been sitting on the lot. They usually go up for sale when they have between 1,000 and 3,000 miles on them. Demo cars are different from program cars, which are driven by representatives of the manufacturer and then sent to dealerships when they have up to 10,000 miles on the odometer. more You also need to make sure it's not a loaner car. This is a vehicle that the dealership lets customers use when they need to get home or to work while their vehicle is in for service. Should You Buy a Demo Car? There are some significant advantages to buying a demo car. Keep in mind that even though these might have up to 3,000 miles on them, they are considered new because the dealership never sold them. These vehicles should qualify for all rebates and special new-vehicle financing as well as the warranty. Demo vehicles are often sold at reduced prices, so it can be a good way to get into a new car for less money. What To Watch Out For Remember that new warranties start at zero miles, so by the time you get the vehicle, you've missed out on some of the miles. You'll also want to take a close look at any wear and tear on the vehicle. Most dealers use these cars for their personal driving, so they make sure to take good care of them, but it is a good idea to take a close look before buying one. Demos Are Often Fully Loaded In many cases, you can find a demo car that's fully loaded. The employees like to drive the best, so they'll choose the highest trim. You can benefit from this when it's your time to buy a new car. You can get a reduced price on a vehicle with the latest technology, upgrades such as leather seats, and even add-ons such as tinted windows. A demonstrator car can be a great buy; just make sure you do your research. You'll want to ask what it was used for and take a look at the odometer to see what it has for mileage. You might just get a nearly new car for a used car price.

There's no better night out than dinner and a show. Alexandria is home to several theaters, so planning an evening filled with live entertainment is easy, and if you want to have dinner first, you can find several excellent restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines. Take a look at these Alexandria restaurants for a pre-theatre bite. Michael's Little Italy Ristorante & Pizzeria It's a quick walk from Michael's to the Little Theatre of Alexandria, and the food and ambiance are wonderful. It has a Sinatra and Dean Martin theme with a menu filled with freshly-made pasta, pizza, and more. Make sure to plan your dinner early enough so you have time to enjoy the food at Michael's before you head to the theater. You can start with grilled shrimp or fried artichokes and, if you are a pasta lover, then move on to the carbonara with angel hair pasta, bacon, onion, basil, egg, and Parmesan cheese. more The pasta options also include rigatoni, penne, and fettuccine with a choice of marinara, vodka, or Alfredo sauce. If you want pizza, you can get Philly cheesesteak, buffalo chicken, or try the calzone. The Majestic The Majestic on King Street in Old Town is close to the Metrostage and offers a relaxed atmosphere with an ambiance that feels as if you've stepped back in time. Start your evening with a choice from the extensive wine list for a before theater drink or order a cocktail. For dinner, the menu includes seasonal specials such as butternut squash soup, and for starters, you can choose from a crispy Brussels sprouts Caesar salad or marinated cucumbers. The main dish options include slow-roasted prime rib, pan-roasted striped bass, and the majestic burger, which comes with house-ground prime chuck, bacon jam, garlic aioli, pimiento cheese, and pickled onions. BRABO Brassiere BRABO serves traditional French dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients from local producers. If you choose the prix fixe menu, you can just enjoy everything that chef Sebastien Rondier comes up with for the evening. BRABO also has an extensive drink menu with a wide range of cocktails, wine, and beer that all pair perfectly with the menu. Hanks Oyster Bar When you have tickets for a show at the MetroStage, you can stop by Hank's Oyster bar on Old Town for a bite before you go. Start with fresh seafood from the raw bar or choose one of the small plates for something light before the show. The menu includes lobster bisque, popcorn shrimp and calamari, fried oysters, and Eastern Shore crab dip. The large plates will fill you up with options such as the molasses braised beef short ribs served with coleslaw and a rich homemade mac and cheese, or try the oven-roasted chicken that comes with a choice of two sides. Start your night out at the theater with a bite at one of these Alexandria restaurants. The city has many different options offering all different cuisines, and you can grab something quick and casual or plan a romantic dinner before you see a show. Image via Pixabay by Free-Photos