From DC: Old Town Alexandria in a Day with Round Trip Ferry
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Discover Alexandria’s Old Town on a guided tour with round-trip boat tickets from D.C., iconic stops like Gadsby’s Tavern, a King Street Trolley ride, and time to explore at your own pace.
Highlights
- Relax on a round-trip Potomac River cruise from D.C.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Alexandria’s Old Town landmarks.
- Go inside historic Gadsby’s Tavern and Carlyle House.
- Visit Christ Church Alexandria, where Washington prayed.
- Explore King Street’s shops and cafes, and ride the trolley.
Description
Begin your Alexandria day trip with a scenic boat cruise down the Potomac River, leaving Washington, D.C. behind as you sail toward Alexandria’s storied Old Town. Upon arrival, your knowledgeable guide will lead you through some of the town's most iconic locations tied to the early days of American history. Step into the Carlyle House, a stunning Georgian mansion built in 1753 that became a social epicenter in the colonial era. Nearby, you'll also visit Wise’s Tavern, a favorite of George Washington, and imagine the conversations that shaped a new nation within its walls. After an introductory stroll, stop at a local bakery for a delicious cupcake that's included in the price of your tour. This bakery is a local favorite known for its creative flavors.
Then you'll hop aboard the charming King Street Trolley for a glimpse of Old Town’s most vibrant street, lined with shops and colonial architecture. Once you disembark, you'll visit Christ Church Alexandria, where Washington worshiped, and see sites like the Hollensbury Spite House and Flounder Houses that reflect the quirky, historic charm of Alexandria.
Next, dive into history with a visit to Gadsby’s Tavern, where Washington, Jefferson, and Lafayette dined and socialized. This preserved 18th-century tavern offers a rare look at how America’s Founding Fathers spent their leisure time. Your guide will then take you to the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary, a unique 18th-century pharmacy that supplied remedies to historic household names like Martha Washington.
Wrap up your journey with free time to explore King Street, where you can wander through charming galleries, shop for souvenirs, or relax at one of the cozy cafes or restaurants near the Torpedo Factory Art Center. When you’re ready, return to the dock to enjoy a peaceful cruise back to D.C., soaking in the scenic views along the Potomac River.
This tour offers a seamless way to explore one of America’s best-preserved colonial towns, all while learning about the figures and stories that defined an era.
Includes
Round-trip ferry transport
Tickets to Gadsby's Tavern
Local English-speaking guide
Cupcake from local bakery
Important Information
- - This tour is in English.
- Guests should feel comfortable walking at a moderate pace on sometimes uneven terrain.
- There is free time towards the end of the tour for food, so we encourage guests to bring snacks and water.
- Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
- Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. If modifications are needed and time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
- Walks and Devour comply with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund