Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Alexandria

Blog / Around Town

Welcome Spring With 4 Great Hikes Near Alexandria

hiking-trail
As we near spring and the weather starts to get warmer, it's time to start planning outdoor activities. Luckily for those of us who live in the Alexandria area, there are a ton of great places to go hiking and enjoy nature. Let's take a look at some nearby trails.

Mount Vernon Trail

The 18-mile Mount Vernon Trail stretches all the way from the Mount Vernon Estate, where George Washington once called home, to the historic monuments of Washington, D.C. The trail is great for hiking, jogging, and bicycling. While traversing the Mount Vernon Trail, you'll be treated to a wide variety of beautiful sights, from stunning views of the Potomac River to the Dyke Marsh, a gorgeous habitat for beavers, Red-winged blackbirds, and red foxes. Another highlight along the trail is the historic Jones Point Lighthouse, built in 1855. The trail has something for everyone, from nature lovers to history buffs.

Dora Kelley Nature Park

The Dora Kelley Nature Park is a 50-acre nature preserve that serves as a home to the tufted titmouse, white-breasted nuthatch, and belted kingfisher. While hiking along the park's one-mile nature trail, you're likely to see bald eagles, Cooper's hawks, barred owls, and even a wild turkey or two. At the end of the trail is a stunning oak-hickory forest dotted with beautiful mountain laurel. The Holmes Run Stream Valley Trail, great for hiking or bicycling, also runs through Dora Kelley Nature Park. Along this trail is a freshwater marsh that a variety of frogs, toads, salamanders, and turtles call home.

Theodore Roosevelt Island

Theodore Roosevelt Island was conceived by landscape architects in the 1930s to serve as a tribute to our 26th President's legacy of conservationism. Three trails traverse the island - the Swamp Trail, which passes through swampy woods and a cattail marsh, the Woods Trail, where you can view the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Plaza, and the Upland Trail, which runs the length of the island through woodlands. While hiking along these trails, you're sure to spot a variety of frogs, snakes, and turtles. The island is also a great place for birdwatching, as it is home to the Baltimore oriole, palm warbler, and American goldfinch.

Huntley Meadows Park

Nature lovers and history buffs alike will enjoy a hike through Huntley Meadows Park. Near the park's entrance sits the Thomson Francis Mason House, a villa built in 1825 as a summer retreat for Mason, who served as mayor of Alexandria from 1827 to 1830. The house has been restored and is open for tours. On the two miles of nature trail that run through the park you'll see beautiful wildflowers, Monarch butterflies, and several bird species. There is also a one-mile hike and bike trail that leads to the park's stunning 1,500-acre wetland that is home to beavers, frogs, dragonflies, heron, and deer. These are just some of the great hiking trails in the Alexandria area. Consider planning a trip so you can see for yourself the wonders of Northern Virginia. Image via Flickr by Jojodub/Under use by CC BY 2.0
Posted in:

Related Posts

Close-up of Sandwich | Alexandria, VA

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.

Italian Restaurants | Alexandria, VA

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.

Outdoor Activities | Alexandria, VA

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!