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King Street is a well-known and busy street in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, that extends westward from the Potomac River waterfront. Recognized as one of the "Great Streets" of America, this street features buildings that date back to the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, as well as one of the oldest farmer's markets in the country. In addition, King Street offers the largest collection of independent boutiques in the District of Columbia, which sell anything from sustainable fashion to toys to books. Here are a few examples of places to visit in King Street. more Independent Boutiques There's a variety of independent boutiques along King Street that offer something of interest for everyone. Those who appreciate quality made-in-the-U.S. wood products should make a turn at Cromwell's Wood Products. At this 2,000-square-foot shop, you'll find wood flooring, millwork, furniture, wood art, and much more. Bookworms will enjoy a leisurely stroll through Old Town Books, which is an extended pop-up on King street. Owner Ally Kirkpatrick focuses on community engagement and often hosts author events, book clubs, and writer's workshops at the store. Another independent shop worth visiting is Threadleaf, which offers responsibly made clothing and accessories from independent American brands. Also, don't forget to drop by The Hours Cocktail Collection to view owner Victoria Vergason's creative cocktail glassware collections. She stocks gorgeous vintage and new glassware, shakers, pitchers, and trays. Something for the Kids King Street also provides a variety of shops that cater to kids. Whether you're looking for kids' clothing, toys, children's books, or baby gifts, you'll find it somewhere on the street. Kids who like reading will definitely enjoy Hooray for Books, which is the only locally-owned independent children's bookstore in the city. The shop offers a wide selection of the classics, as well as new books and toys. For something a bit different, pop by Pink and Brown, which is a children's boutique that provides organic clothes and designer apparel. At 529 Kids Consign, you can shop for upscale children's and maternity wear in the latest fashions. Top-Quality Restaurants After so much shopping, one is bound to get a bit peckish. Fortunately, King Street boasts many fine restaurants that offer creative comfort food and waterfront fare, attractive settings, and excellent service. A must-try is Magnolia's on King, which serves Southern soul food in a 200-year-old historical building. The restaurant boasts three dining venues on three different floors. The Magnolia Room is the restaurant's first-floor and main dining room, while the second-floor Palm Lounge offers a craft cocktail experience. Then there's also the Nest, where you can enjoy a private dining experience. At Magnolia's, they are proud to use sustainably raised and grown ingredients from regional farmers. On the menu are delicious items like Spinach, Mushroom & Goats Cheese Ravioli, Fall of the Bone BBQ Ribs, and Louisiana Style Cajun Gumbo. These are just a few of the interesting and quality shops and restaurants that King Street has to offer. To enjoy a day of leisurely shopping and fine food in a beautiful, historical setting, put some time aside next time you're in Alexandria and stroll along this Great Street. image via pixabay

With a city as old as Alexandria, which was established in 1749, you're sure to find plenty of great antiques, hidden gems, and lost treasures. This lovely, historic city boasts numerous antique shops with treasures ranging from estate and vintage jewelry to early American furniture. Next time you're in Alexandria, Virginia, check out these five amazing places to go antiquing. more Christopher H. Jones Antiques Find elegant, rare, and historically important items when you shop at Christopher H. Jones Antiques. The shop specializes in early American antiques from the Southern and Mid-Atlantic areas. Detailed maps from the 17th and 18th centuries give you a peek into the worlds of early explorers. Finely crafted quilts, furniture, pottery, and glassware represent how a home was decorated from that time period. The proprietors of the shop can help you pick just the right pieces to help you decorate your own home in this style. Hang striking paintings from famous 17th, 18th, and 19th-century artists on your walls, and add attractive pieces of statement furniture to any room in your home for an eye-catching vintage look. The Hour Shop Elevate cocktail and happy hour at your next social gathering with barware and vintage cocktail-related items from The Hour Shop. You'll find exquisite vintage cocktail glasses, pitchers, decanters, shakers, and bar tools to give your home bar a sophisticated look. The staff at The Hour Shop can show you how to make classic cocktails, give you in-depth details about the history of the cocktail culture, and provide tips on home bar styling and entertaining. Elinor Coleman's Vintage Mirage Dress in vintage style with clothing, jewelry, and accessories from Elinor Coleman's Vintage Mirage. The store specializes in consignment fashion from several eras including Victorian, Flapper-Roaring '20s, Art Deco, World War II, and the 1960s, '70s, and '80s. Add a touch of elegance to your outfits with Victorian glass bead necklaces, Chanel pins and brooches, and lace over-the-elbow gloves. Finish your vintage ensemble with an antique handbag, clutch, or purse. The Antique Guild When you're searching for exceptional, hand-picked Victorian-era, estate and antique jewelry, The Antique Guild is the place to go. Each item in the store is carefully researched, cleaned, and authenticated. Whether you want a Victorian cameo made from coral, shell, or precious stones, a Victorian bangle bracelet, Art Deco chain bracelet, or precious pearl drop earrings, you'll find what you're looking for at The Antique Guild. Domimex Antiques and Rugs Rugs bring warmth to any room, help tie a room together, and have a luxurious feel under your feet. Make your rug collection extra special buying rugs and carpets from Domimex Antiques and Rugs. Elevate your home with antique rugs made from the finest of Persian wool, rare carpets made from Morrocan cashmere, and silk rugs from the Orient. Domimex Antiques and Rugs can help to clean, repair, and restore your antique rugs so they look as beautiful as the day they were made. We hope you enjoy shopping at these top antique shops in the Alexandria, Virginia, area. Feel free to drop us a line letting us know your favorite antique treasure find. image via pixabay