Washington D.C. Alexandria Historical Day Trip

Escape busy Washington, D.C. for an afternoon and enjoy a historic journey to Alexandria’s Old Town. With convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this tour makes it easy to experience one of America’s best-preserved colonial towns. After a scenic boat trip down the Potomac to Old Town Alexandria, you'll disembark to begin your journey through hundreds of years of American history. Step inside the storied Gadsby’s Tavern, where Washington and Jefferson once dined; explore the elegant Carlyle House, a social center in colonial times; pause for a snack at a local bakery; continue your journey in Washington's footsteps at his parish, Christ Church Alexandria, where Washington himself prayed—and so much more. You'll even glide down King Street on a vintage trolley and enjoy free time to explore this quaint town’s art galleries, shops, and cafes before you hop back on the boat for a relaxing return cruise to D.C.

Meeting Point

950 Wharf St SW

950 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets at 950 Wharf St. SW Washington DC 20024 (it is on the other side of the street of The Anthem Theater, please meet your guide near the boat dock).

What's included:

• Local English-speaking guide
• Cupcake from local bakery
• Tickets to Gadsby's Tavern
• Round-trip ferry transport

Not included:

• Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
• Gratuities

What to expect:

Duration: 5 hours

Potomac River

Washington DC, District of Columbia

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.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Carlyle House

121 N Fairfax St, , Alexandria, 22314-3229, Virginia

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.

35 minutes

Lavender Moon Cupcakery

116 S Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314, USA

Treat yourself to a locally made cupcake from this beloved small business. Your cupcake is included with the ticket.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Old Town Free Trolley Stand, King Street

Alexandria, VA 22314, USA

Take a quick, charming ride on the vintage King Street Trolley through Old Town Alexandria.

10 minutes

Alexandria's Christ Church

118 N Washington St, , Alexandria, 22314-3023, Virginia

Visit the historic church where George Washington worshiped, steeped in American history.

30 minutes

Hollensbury Spite House

523 Queen St, Alexandria, 22314, Virginia

Snap photos of the famously narrow Spite House and learn about quirky colonial architecture. Then walk by the home of George Washington and dive deeper into his life in Alexandria.

30 minutes

Gadsby's Tavern Museum

134 N Royal St, Alexandria, 22314-3226, Virginia

Step back in time at 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.

45 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

105 S Fairfax St # 107, , Alexandria, 22314-3301, Virginia

Visit this 18th-century pharmacy, which Martha Washington frequented for remedies.

20 minutes

Captain's Row

100 Prince St, Alexandria, 22314-3312, Virginia

Stroll along this picturesque street, lined with historic colonial homes.

15 minutes

Old Town Alexandria Waterfront

1 Prince Street, Alexandria, 22314, Virginia

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.

45 minutes

Potomac River

Washington DC, District of Columbia

End your day with a relaxing return cruise to Washington, D.C. and take in scenic river views.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included