Whether you live in the Alexandria, Virginia, area or are just visiting, there are several attractions in the Old Town neighborhood that are well worth your time. Let’s discuss some of these attractions and what they have to offer.
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King Street
Located in the heart of Old Town, King Street has been named one of the “Great Streets” of America and “one of the best indie boutique scenes on the East Coast.” The easily walkable mile-long street is home to more than 160 independent boutiques. If you’re looking for a unique pair of shoes, an amazing outfit, or a special gift, you’re sure to find it on King Street. In addition to shops selling the hottest fashions and latest trends, King Street is also the place to go for the finest antiques in Alexandria, as well as some of the city’s top restaurants.
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Old Town Farmer’s Market
The Old Town Farmer’s Market isn’t just known for great produce; it’s also the oldest continuously-run farmer’s market in the United States. George Washington even sent the bounty of his Mount Vernon farm to be sold at the Old Town Farmer’s market. Today, visitors will find fruits, vegetables, meat, artisan cheeses, bread, pastries, and fresh pasta. Market vendors also sell flowers, potted plants, handmade jewelry, soap, and art. While perusing the selection of wares, shoppers can enjoy live music from local favorites.
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Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Before the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary was turned into a museum, it operated as an actual pharmacy until 1933. Opened in 1792 by the young Quaker pharmacist, Edward Stabler, its many clients included George and Martha Washington. Today it houses a collection of more than 15,000 objects including herbal botanicals, hand-blown glass, and medical equipment. Visitors to the museum can also view journals, prescription pads, formula books, ledgers, orders, and invoices.
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Torpedo Factory Art Center
Located on the scenic Potomac River waterfront, the Torpedo Factory Art Center has been recognized as one of the top destinations for art lovers in the country. The three-story building, once a former naval munitions plant that manufactured torpedoes during World War II, now houses 82 art studios and seven galleries. Visitors can view and purchase a variety of paintings, sculpture, and handicrafts, as well as grab a bite to eat and a glass of wine at the center’s cafe.
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The Spite House
Whether you’re an Instagrammer or a history buff, you have to pay a visit to the Spite House. At 7 feet wide, it’s the skinniest house in the United States. It’s called the Spite House because Alexandrian John Hollensbury built it in 1830 to keep loiterers and wagon traffic from passing through the alley adjacent to his residence. The house is located in a beautiful section of Old Town lined with historic red brick sidewalks, and it’s surrounded by several other photo-worthy homes constructed centuries ago.
These are just some of the top attractions in Old Town Alexandria. Consider planning a visit so you can see for yourself what makes this neighborhood so special.
Image via Flickr by Ken Lund. Used with permission via CC BY SA 2.0 / cropped from original
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