Alexandria, VA

Travel Guide
Alexandria showing heritage elements, a house and a garden
Located across the river from Washington, D.C, this Virginia city offers a charming atmosphere, historical attractions and easy access to the nation's capital.

Alexandria's history is deeply ingrained in the founding of the United States. The Lyceum offers a glimpse into life as it was in the nineteenth century and engages visitors with lectures and tours. Learn about the role that Alexandria played in the Civil War at the Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site. The museum's interactive exhibits provide an ideal way to engage young children. Carlyle House is another destination where history comes to life explore a day in the life of a colonial American on one of their costumed interpretive tours.

Shopping and dining await in Old Town, a neighborhood that looks much as it did in the 19th century. Explore this historic district aboard the King Street Trolley, a free transport system that runs from the waterfront to the Metro Station. From the Metro station, Washington, D.C. is just a 45-minute subway ride away.

Take in the local flavor at Torpedo Factory Art Center, a World War II torpedo manufacturing plant which is now populated by shops, galleries and restaurants. Located on the waterfront, this is an ideal place to admire views of the D.C. skyline in the distance. Explore the Potomac River from another perspective aboard a river cruise.

Dinner and a live performance are all on the menu at Birchmere Music Hall, a venue that hosts some of the biggest musicians. Take a Ghost & Graveyard tour for a spooky and entertaining look into the region’s history that will appeal to children and adults alike.

Alexandria's bike share system offers rental stations throughout the city. Ride along the Mount Vernon Trail, which weaves along the banks of the Potomac River. The trail extends all the way to Washington, D.C.

The city is just 7 miles (11.3 kilometers) east of Washington, D.C., providing you with a central location and refuge from the activity of the nation's capital. Washington Dulles International Airport is 33 miles (53.1 kilometers) east of Alexandria.

Visit the landmarks in Washington, D.C., then head across the Potomac River to enjoy the historical and cultural delights that make Alexandria such a popular destination.

Where to stay in Alexandria

Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Washington DC - Alexandria 
Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Washington DC - Alexandria 
2.5 out of 5
5975 Richmond Highway, Belle Haven, Alexandria, VA, 22303
The price is $99 per night from Jun 4 to Jun 5
$99
per night
Jun 4 - Jun 5
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Alexandria. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
7.2/10 Good! (1,001 reviews)
Pleasant stay
"Hotel is easy to get to and right on the highway which was a huge plus. Check in was easy and the lady was very nice. Room was clean and no bugs!!! I was surprised to see a fridge which was great. Check out was just as pleasant. I only stayed for one night but would stay here again."

Reviewed on May 26, 2023

Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Washington DC - Alexandria 
Holiday Inn Alexandria at Carlyle, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Alexandria at Carlyle, an IHG Hotel
3 out of 5
2460 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA, 22314
The price is $162 per night from Jun 30 to Jul 1
$162
per night
Jun 30 - Jul 1
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Alexandria. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,002 reviews)
Good DC option
"This hotel is our go-to for trips to DC. It is reasonably priced, has free parking, and is only a block from the Metro so getting into DC is easy. Starbucks & Dunkin Donuts are a 3 minute walk. A Wegmans grocery store is a 5 minute walk. And, Teds - a decent restaurant is just across the street. ..."

Reviewed on May 30, 2023

Holiday Inn Alexandria at Carlyle, an IHG Hotel
Lorien Hotel & Spa
Lorien Hotel & Spa
4.5 out of 5
1600 King Street, Alexandria, VA, 22314
The price is $178 per night from Jul 2 to Jul 3
$178
per night
Jul 2 - Jul 3
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Alexandria. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)
"Staff was friendly, accommodating and the wine hr was top notch. Thank you. Will be booking again"

Reviewed on May 30, 2023

Lorien Hotel & Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
WhyHotel by Placemakr Alexandria
WhyHotel by Placemakr Alexandria
2455 Mandeville Ln, Alexandria, VA, 22314
Stay at this aparthotel in Alexandria. Enjoy free WiFi, onsite parking, and a terrace. Popular attractions Arlington National Cemetery and George Washington ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (175 reviews)
"Liked having a kitchen, and space for the family. restaurants and grocery near by!"

Reviewed on May 30, 2023

WhyHotel by Placemakr Alexandria
Mint House Alexandria - Old Town
Mint House Alexandria - Old Town
3 out of 5
750 Thornton Wy, Alexandria, VA
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Alexandria. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center. Popular attractions MGM National Harbor Casino and ...
6/10 (4 reviews)
New, spacious and close to town
"The unit was in a residential complex, so it really felt like a home away from home. Lots of room and every amenity needed. I like the technology used for check-in and out ... makes the process simple and efficient."

Reviewed on Mar 11, 2023

Mint House Alexandria - Old Town
Coming to DC area? Walking distance to Metro
Coming to DC area? Walking distance to Metro
Alexandria
Stay at this vacation home in Alexandria. Enjoy 2 bathrooms, 2 bedrooms, and a shower/tub combo. Popular attractions MGM National Harbor Casino and Arlington ...
Coming to DC area? Walking distance to Metro
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Reviews of Alexandria

4.3
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
826
" "5 - Excellent 48.588235294117645%
4 - Good
664
" "4 - Good 39.05882352941177%
3 - Okay
172
" "3 - Okay 10.117647058823529%
2 - Disappointing
24
" "2 - Disappointing 1.411764705882353%
1 - Terrible
14
" "1 - Terrible 0.8235294117647058%

1/5 - Terrible

Verified traveler
May 25, 2020

I hated it. TERRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler
May 13, 2020

It’s ok

5/5 - Excellent

Nina
May 12, 2020

Beautiful city ..

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
May 11, 2020

Had one issue at the hotel but they really rectified it for us

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
Apr 27, 2020

It was ok

4/5 - Good

Beth
Mar 30, 2020

Cool downtown area.

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