Though there’s plenty to do within Southern Maryland, if you’re craving a road trip, there are some great nearby cities to visit, including Alexandria, VA. It’s a short trip, and once there, you’ll be rewarded with some exciting spots to explore. This city rests on the western bank of the Potomac River and was once one of the busiest ports in America. Today, visitors can get a sense of the rich history here from the preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture, especially in their scenic Old Town.

Getting there:

This city is just a short drive north from the Southern Maryland region. It takes under 2 hours to journey from the southernmost tip of Lexington Park in St. Mary’s County, and, of course, less time the further north you are. Depending on your starting point, you can travel on 235N, 5N, or 4N, taking 495S into Alexandria from there. If you’re making the trip, here are some spots in the city you won’t want to miss:

Explore History: Museums on Market Square

Be sure to explore the rich history in Alexandria and start with this group of museums. The Museums on Market Square include the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, Carlyle House, and Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, which all surround the square in front of Alexandria City Hall. Once you’ve explored these unique museums, make the trip over to George Washington’s Mount Vernon to continue your immersion in history.

Experience Art: Torpedo Factory Art Center

Located on the beautiful waterfront area lies this unique art powerhouse, with three floors and 82 different art studios and galleries. Here, visitors can watch artmaking in action and interact with the artists themselves. You might even go home with a one-of-a-kind piece made by someone you met personally. The Torpedo Factory Art Center also houses The Art League’s school as well as the Alexandria Archaeology Museum. If you can time your visit right, check out their Second Thursday Art Night, an after-hours event that goes until 9PM and includes some hands-on artmaking, music, and gallery receptions. Their normal hours are 10AM – 6PM daily.

 

Stroll: Old Town

One of the most popular parts of this city is its historic and picturesque Old Town. The 18th-century buildings, brick, and cobblestones will have you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. This hub is filled with locally-owned and big-box shops, great theaters, and renowned restaurants. It’s a nice walkable area to explore on foot, and there’s also a free trolley which transports visitors down King Street, Old Town’s main street.

Eat: Virtue Feed & Grain and Caphe Banh Mi

There are some amazing eateries in Alexandria. The first I’d recommend is Virtue Feed & Grain, which made its home in a former 1800s feed house in Old Town. They’ve retained its historic charm with touches like repurposed brick pillars and the original concrete floor. They have award-winning food, with their popular Crab Dip and Duck Poutine for starters and entrees like their delicious Jerk Chicken. Another restaurant for adventurous foodies is the popular Vietnamese restaurant, Caphe Banh Mi. This cozy space fills with regulars during dinner hours. They’re known for their steaming pho noodle bowls as well as their banh mi sandwiches. One popular choice for meat-lovers is known as “The Works”, a pho noodle bowl with eye of round, brisket, flank, tendon, tripe, and meatballs.

 

Drink: Port City Brewing Company

If craft brews are your thing, journey over to Port City Brewing Company during your stay. They’re an award-winning brewery and the oldest packaging brewery in metropolitan Washington, D.C.. Located just 2 miles west of Old Town, you can visit for some samples, a brewery tour, or just to enjoy a pint. They have five flagship beers which are always on tap, as well as some seasonal and rotating brews to try.

 

Alexandria is known for being a city with a small-town feel. With a walkable Old Town, diverse and compact neighborhoods to explore, and a beautiful waterfront area, it’s the perfect place for a day or weekend trip. Whether you’re into exploring the culture and history here, or you want to enjoy the local flavors, this city has much to offer.