At Alexandria's Southside on the Potomac
Just steps from Porto Vecchio the brick sidewalks of Old Town, so-called because it is the oldest part of Alexandria – originally laid out in 1749 – and a nationally designated historic district. Many of its 4,000 historic buildings houses, art galleries, antique shops and restaurants. Once the site of the second-largest slave market in the United States, Old Town’s Market Square now contains a large fountain, extensive landscaping and a Saturday morning farmers’ market.
Old Town is known for its illustrious residents and guests. George Washington called it home. Robert E. Lee worshipped at Christ Church and Thomas Jefferson entertained at nearby Gadsby’s Tavern. Old Town Alexandria offer a full menu of dining choices with restaurants ranging from fast-food to white tablecloth. A night on the town can be had at spots such as the Oyster Bar and Club Room at Union Street.
Porto Vecchio straddles the Mount Vernon trail which runs upriver toward Reagan National Airport and downriver toward Mount Vernon. Many residents of Porto Vecchio have views of the Belle Haven Marina or the Belle Haven Country Club.
Neighborhood Highlights
- Athenaeum
- Fort Hunt Park
- Gadsby's Tavern
- George Washington Parkway
- King St. Metro and free trolley
- Lloyd House
- Lyceum
- Martha Washington Library
- Mount Vernon
- Mount Vernon Rec Center
- Oronoco Bay Park
- Reagan National Airport
- Robert E. Lee's Boyhood Home
- Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
- Torpedo Factory
Old Town Real Estate For Sale
Celebrate Black History Month in Northern Virginia -- February 2010The Workhouse Arts Center is mounting an exhibition of works by several well-known African-American artists. The Center is located in Lorton on the site of the defunct prison. Sully Mansion in Chantilly, built in 1799, offers guided tours which highlight the lives of its early 19th century owners, tenant farmers and slaves, whose original quarters have been preserved. Guides at Mount Vernon Estate emphasize the lives and contributions of the resident slaves. Be sure to visit the gift shop for further materials highlighting the African American experience in America in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Attend gospel music concerts, movies and cultural celebrations in Arlington County. Visit the website of the Arlington County Publc Libraries for a list of exhibits, programs, brochures and suggested readings in Black History. Check out the Alexandria Black History Museum at 902 Wythe Street. Its collection includes documents related to the first public schools for African Americans, records of Civil War exploits by black soldiers, a large collection of historic photographs and even some African artifacts. The Robert H. Robinson library was originally established in 1940 because the Alexandria public libraries were segregated. The museum and library also have their own adjacent park. Then take a walk through beautiful, historic Old Town. Finally, cross the river to celebrate the life Frederick Douglass--abolitionist, businessman and journalist. Frederick Douglass House is located on the banks of the Anacostia River. On February 14 historians will celebrate Douglass' birthday with readings, tours, films and music. Sponsored by Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC Serving real estate needs of Northern VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County · |
Into Fitness?Athletes, would-be athletes and nature lovers should head south from Old Town Alexandria. Stretching along the Potomac River from the southern border of Old Town to Mount Vernon Estate is the Mt. Vernon bike path. Eight miles of asphalt allow locals and visitors to walk, run or bike while enjoying river views and wildlife sightings. Bald eagles, ospreys, blue heron, cormorants, egrets, ducks and geese are among waterfowl commonly spotted along this corridor, while deer, groundhogs and fox sightings are frequent. Combine cardio and conservation by following a nature trail through Dyke Marsh. Along the bike path is a fitness course and several points of access for canoes or kayaks. Businesses in the nearby Belle View shopping center allow you to rent a bike, tone up at Curves or take karate lessons. Adjacent to Belle View is the Mt. Vernon Recreation Center, which provides Fairfax County residents with an indoor pool and ice rink. Farther south on Route 1 is a Gold's Gym. Local communities such as River Towers, Porto Vecchio and Belle View also offer their residents tennis, swimming and basketball facilities as well as their own in-house gyms.
Sponsored by Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC Serving real estate needs of Northern VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County · |
The Marina Towers of AlexandriaLocated at 501 Slaters Lane in Alexandria, Virginia, Marina Towers is a large condominium community consisting of approximately 500 residents. Marina Towers is located along the north side of Old Town Alexandria, where residents can enjoy boutique shopping, antique galleries, and a wide selection of restaurants and entertainment. In addition, the Potomac Landing Sailing Marina and two bicycle paths are located just a short walking distance from Marina Towers as well.
Marina Towers is located near many of Northern
Virginia's major thoroughfares and is positioned conveniently close (only 3 miles
away) to Reagan National Airport, making the Marina Towers every commuter's dream.
The Marina Towers condominium units are spacious and modern, and the condominium grounds
feature a host of amenities including a riverside swimming pool which features free
water aerobics classes; a fitness center; a convenience store/drycleaners; a party
room; a tiki bar and a gazebo. Between the exceptionally convenient location of Marina
Towers and their close proximity to shopping, mass-transit and the Potomac River,
this is a must-see condo community for anyone looking to live in Northern
Virginia!
 Sponsored by Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC Serving real estate needs of Northern VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County · |
Tax incentives for historic preservationIf you're considering buying a home in Old Town Alexandria, or if you're moving to an older neighborhood anywhere in Northern Virginia, you might want to consider this before taking on a historic preservation project. 
Properties with historical significance may qualify for a tax credit worth 10% or 20% of the renovation costs. Image: Jon Skvarka, Rebuilding Together New Orleans
Tax breaks at the federal and state levels are available to homeowners to encourage
the preservation of historic properties. The incentives range from tax credits that
reduce dollar for dollar the amount you owe the IRS, to easements that can increase
deductions and decrease estate and property taxes. Federal tax credits for historic investment properties
The federal Historic
Preservation Tax Incentives program offers tax credits equal to either 10% or
20% of qualifying renovation costs. Depending on what you own, you may be eligible
for one or the other, but not both. The main drawback is the tax credits don't apply
to owner-occupied homes. Investment properties qualify, however. State tax breaks for owner-occupied historic homes
Unlike the federal tax credits, which are limited to investment properties, many states
offer incentives geared toward the preservation of owner-occupied historic homes.
Check with your state historic preservation office. Sponsored by Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC Serving real estate needs of Northern VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County · |
Snow falls at the Torpedo Factory Condos
The Torpedo Factory condos are one of Alexandria's premier addresses. Check here to see condos for sale at the Torpedo Factory or if you need a real estate agent who is an expert in Alexandria VA.  Sponsored by Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC Serving real estate needs of Northern VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County · |
Snow in Old Town
December snows in Old Town Alexandria shut the city down? No, Old Town is a walker's paradise and once the sidewalks were shoveled the town came to life. 
City Hall was shut down and Market Square was roped off until the snow could be cleaned up. 
Here's a historic look down King St. toward the Potomac. You'll find no free trolley on the streets this day. 
Many of the restaurants and shops are ready for Christmas and upcoming holidays. 
Old Town's finer homes are tastefully dressed for the Winter. 
If you need a realtor who knows Alexandria, contact us at 703 765 0300. To look at homes for sale right now in Old Town Alexandria, check here. Sponsored by Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC Serving real estate needs of Northern VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County · |
Abingdon Row in the Snow
To see homes listed for sale at Abingdon Row. Sponsored by Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC Serving real estate needs of Northern VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County · |
Old Town Shopping Guide for condos and communities ...Looking for a home in Old Town with a price between $200,000 and $300,000? Then you're probably looking for a condominium. Some of the first places you should check are:
If your budget is a bit bigger and you're looking in Old Town for a home priced between say $300k to $400k, you might check out some of the following residences.
The following list features communities with homes that range in price from $400,000 to around $500,000
For those seeking the finest Old Town has to offer the following communities are suggested:
Sponsored by Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC Serving real estate needs of Northern VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County · |
Plaques on Historic Homes of Alexandria VA
This program continues today, with additional structures judged on their merits for inclusion within the ranks of plaqued houses. If you think your house merits a bronze plaque, call the Historic Alexandria Foundation at 703-549-5811 or the Office of Historic Alexandria at 703-838-4554 to learn more about this program.
Check here for a map of homes
for sale in Old Town Alexandria VA.
Sponsored by Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC Serving real estate needs of Northern VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County · |
The Prescott Condominiums in Old Town AlexandriaThe Prescott Condominiums in Alexandria, Virginia, is a luxury condo building located at 1115 Cameron Street featuring 64 units including 58 two bedroom units and 6 one bedroom units. The Prescott features include 9-foot high ceilings, hardwood floors, brushed chrome fixtures, and designer kitchens such as stainless steel appliances, maple cabinets and granite countertops. The 64 condominiums at The Prescott feature such amenities as a rooftop terrace with grilling areas, views of the Masonic Temple, and controlled access underground parking. The Prescott is ideally located one block off of King Street at the intersection of Cameron Street and North Henry Street in the Old Town neighborhood of Alexandria, Virginia. With its central Old Town Alexandria location and fully equipped homes, The Prescott is a great value for anyone looking to live in Old Town. 
The Old Town district in Alexandria includes more than 4,000 historic buildings that are outstanding examples of early American architecture and that now house small businesses and gracious homes alike to create a modern, yet neighborhood and community-centered feel. The Prescott is therefore a good buy for many young families and young professional alike. View Larger Map Sponsored by Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty LLC Serving real estate needs of Northern VA · in Alexandria · in Arlington · in Fairfax County · |
During
the era of Federal Urban Renewal programs, which threatened the demolition of the
oldest parts of Alexandria, the Historic Alexandria Foundation initiated a program
of marking early historic buildings with oval bronze plaques. Intense lobbying by
the Foundation in conjunction with the Old Town Civic Association served to limit
the advance of Urban Renewal destruction in the 1960s to three blocks along Athenaeum
Located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, The Athenaeum is home to the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Association (NVFAA). Constructed between 1851-52, the Athenaeum is a Greek revival building with a rich history. The building is named after the Greek Goddess of wisdom, Athena. Over the years The Athenaeum has taken many names and was used for many functions. Together with the Lyceum, the Athenaeum is a foundation of Alexandria's Greek neo-classic buildings.
The building has a long history of use in Alexandria. Before the Civil War, Robert E. Lee banked here, when the building was known as the Bank of the Old Dominion. During the Civil War it was occupied by Federals and home to the Union Army Commissary Headquarters. In 1905, the bank was converted from commercial to industrial purposes. The building was used by the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Shop as a place to grind talcum into powder. In 1925, the talcum factory became the Free Methodist Church.
NVFAA purchased the Athenaeum in 1964. Since then, restorations have taken place using the funds from the members of the NVFAA and the National Park Service Save America's Treasure Grant.
Recent art exhibits include Song For Europe by Mark Cameron Boyd is participatory installation using his signature "text bisection" process on a series of chalkboards to address four different languages from European origin such as Greek, Latin, French, and English. This exhibit is on display from August 16th - September 21st.
Music is another art form featured at The Athenaeum. Up and coming:
- September 11th - Tom Dews with Patricia Cooper.
- October 9th - Lori Grigsby & Sandy Moyer with Patricia Cooper
- December 11th - BumpKin Pie
Yoga classes are available at The Athenaeum. Instructor Betsy Huffman welcomes drop-ins. Class fees are only $18 per class. Classes are Mondays 11:30am
The Athenaeum is available for rentals for weddings, receptions, parties, business meetings and seminars.
Gallery Hours:
Thursday, Friday, & Sunday: Noon-4pm
Saturday 1pm-4pm
The Athenaeum
201 Prince St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 548-0035
Gadsby's Tavern
Old Town Alexandria is famed for its quaint historical atmosphere. Englishman John Gadsby operated a tavern here from 1796 to 1808. In those days, the tavern was the hub of political, business and social circles in Alexandria. Thus, Gadsby's Tavern is an important part of the 18th Century heritage of today's Old Town Alexandria.
Today Gadsby's Tavern Museum is located on Royal Street, a few blocks from route of the King St. trolley. Admission is only $4 for adults and $2 for children. Children under 11 are FREE when accompanied by a paying adult. The museum consists of two buildings, a ca. 1785 tavern and the 1792 City Hotel.
While in operation, the tavern was the setting for dancing assemblies, theatrical and musical performances, and meetings of local organizations. Prominent patrons such as George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and the Marquis de Lafayette are part of the history of Gadsby's.
At the tavern you can journey back to the 18th-century in a place where famous historical figures and everyday people dined and slept. The museum helps educate today's generations about the history, architecture, decorative arts, social customs, food, and clothing of the 1700's.
There is a restaurant still in operation in the building. The tavern can be rented for weddings, banquets and any meeting where linen tablecloths and a post-colonial setting are appreciated. Please note some tour times are not available due to special events at the museum. Please call in advance or check the online calendar for more information.
Tour Hours
November to March:
Wednesday to Saturday: 11 am to 4 pm
Sunday: 1 pm to 4 pm
Monday and Tuesday: Closed
Last tour: At 3:45 pm
Closed: New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas
April to October:
Tuesday to Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm
Sunday and Monday: 1 pm to 5 pm
Last tour: At 4:45 pm.
Closed: New Year's Day,
Thanksgiving, Christmas
George Washington Parkway
Porto Vecchio is on the George Washington Parkway at the point where the the Parkway crosses the Beltway toward Mount Vernon.
The George Washington Memorial Parkway, often called the GW Parkway by locals, meanders through parks on both sides of the road and is usually within close proximity to and sight of the Potomac River. The US Park Service maintains this and all parkways. Parkways are designed to be scenic meandering roads with light traffic. Despite finding a path through the most urban parts of Northern Virginia, the GW Parkway largely accomplishes these goals.
Top posted speed on the Parkway is 50 mph, and cruising speeds rarely exceed this limit. On the other hand, even during the worst of rush hour, speeds are rarely less than 45 mph. Those who are unfamiliar with traffic in the national Capitol region might not fully appreciate what an accomplishment this is.
To put these numbers in perspective, posted speeds on I-495 (the Beltway) are generally 55 mph. Traffic on the Beltway often exceeds 65 mph, but during rush hour, there are several points where the traffic slows to less than 25 mph. The Beltway is bumper to bumper madness squeezed between concrete sound-walls, while the GW Parkway is an easy cruise along the Potomac. Is it any wonder why I love the GW?
The GW Parkway winds along the banks of the Potomac River, starting near Great Falls in Mclean and then travels downriver all the way to Mt. Vernon, George Washington's Mansion. The parkway is an ideal drive for a tourist or visitor who would like to see some of the best views and sites the area has to offer.
A broad well-maintain bike and jogging trail runs the length of the GW Parkway, and is well used by residents and tourists alike.
Driving Down River
From the CIA Headquarters, downriver to the hieghts of Rosslyn, there are several overlooks that provide nice views of Georgetown in Washington DC. Picnicers will find parks and pull-overs where they can take a break from their drive along the Potomac.
After passing under the beautiful Francis Scott Key Bridge, the Parkway passes one of my favorite (and one of the area's least known) Presidential memorials---Teddy Roosevelt Island. This forested island on the Potomac takes visitors into another world, and as you walk the trails on the island it is easy to forget that you are in an urban environment. If you've never done so, walk the trails and discover T. Roosevelt's statue and memorial---a fitting tribute to a man who love the outdoors and who helped establish the national park system.
If you're travelling south, or downriver, you won't have access to the island at this point and you'll have to save that bit of fun for your return. But just minutes past the Key Bridge, you'll clear the woods of Teddy Roosevelt Island and Rosslyn's bluff and will get your first glimpse of the national Capitol in all it's glory.
At the Monuments
From the road you'll have views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial across the Potomac in Washington DC. On the hill above you in Virginia, you'll have a glimpse of the Iwo Jima Memorial. There is a mish-mash of poorly marked connecting roads entering and leaving the Parkway as you approach Memorial Bridge at and around the Iwo Jima Memorial.
These connectors can be confusing to tourists, but locals zip on and off the Parkway to access DC or Arlington. Despite the potential for accidents with slower moving site-seers and quick moving commuters, there are few incidents here: a testament to the fine design of the Parkway.
Memorial Bridge marks the entrance to Arlington National Cemetary, a solemn and beautiful place where Presidents, soldiers and honored citizens of the United States have taken their final rest. Fittingly, Memorial Bridge connects Arlington House, Robert E. Lee's home in Virginia, with the Lincoln Memorial, symbolizing the bridge that connects North and South in union.
National Airport
As one passes the Memorial Bridge the Jefferson Memorial with its famed Tidal Pools, becomes more visible. Past the Jefferson Memorial, the Parkway crosses Humpback Bridge onto Columbia Island, home to Lady Bird Johnson Memorial Grove. At this point, travellers downriver will have access to a pleasant picnic area which provides excellent views up to the Pentagon and the Air Force Memorial.
As the parkway leaves the island, it jogs away from the Pentagon and the hi-rise skyline of Crystal City toward Ronald Reagan National Airport. The airport's runaway nearly meets the road as the parkway gentle wends its way downriver. Here the parkway offers pleasant views of the Potomac and local air traffic landing at Reagan National. Just past the airport is the first of two marinas on the parkway.
Old Town Alexandria
After the marina, the Parkway slows to a traffic light and then for the next mile or so, makes its way through the streets of Old Town Alexandria. Old Town is a delight, with shops, boutiques and historical sites. Past Old Town the view opens up again with a sweeping view of the River toward National Harbor. The Belle Haven Country Club marks the approach to the Belle Haven Marina. This provides a great spot for a picnic as well as an opportunity to rent canoes, kayaks, rowboats and sailboats.
Past the marina is the Dyke Marsh, a wetlands filled with birds, fish and wildlife. Across the river Fort Washington, a relic of the War of 1812 watches the narrows of the Potomac. Fort Washington, once a military stronghold, now a pleasant park, is a destination in itself and is worth an afternoon. The Virginia side of the river has Fort Hunt, where moldering remnants of World War II stand silent watch over a peaceful park.
Mansion at Mount Vernon
After several scenic vistas at and around Stratford Landing and Arcturus, the Parkway at last comes to an end at George Washington's mansion at Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens is the oldest national historic preservation organization in the country. Mount Vernon is the most popular historic estate in America. The grounds are well-preserved as is the home itself.
Summary
The GW Parkway runs from Mt. Vernon to Mclean and Great Falls through the Alexandria and Arlington. At it's southern end it meets Old Mount Vernon Highway. Upriver, it is connected by the American Legion Bridge to a continuation in Maryland on the Clara Barton Parkway. The GW Parkway provides excellent views that are impressive to even a jaded commuter.
A commuter will find this is one of the best routes around the nation's Capitol.
As a result of this, or because of this, some of the priciest and most exclusive neighborhoods in Northern Virginia are found along the GW Parkway. Here's a sampling what's currently on the market in some of these neighborhoods along the Parkway.
King St. Metro and Free Trolley
The King St. Metro is a great station for commuters, day-trippers or tourists. Near the Metro, one will find many interesting things to fill an afternoon, an evening or an entire day.
The King St. Metro serves both the Yellow and Blue Lines. It is a hub for many bus routes and the King St. Trolley. Most hours there are cabs waiting at the station to serve as needed.
In addition, this station links the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) and Amtrak to the Washington Metro Transit Authority. There are a variety of fun things to do here, just a few blocks from the new Patent and Trademark Office, and I'll describe a few below.
The King St. Metro stops at the foot of the Shooters Hill, the location of the "Alexandria Lighthouse" (aka the George Washington National Masonic Memorical.)
This structure is visible from miles around owing to its great size and strategic position atop the hill just outside Old Town Alexandria. The George Washington Masonic Memorial performs many functions. First and foremost, it is a Masonic Memorial, honoring and perpuating the memory and character of a fellow mason, George Washington.
In addition this edifice serves as a tourist attraction and destination for many. The building hosts a research center and masonic library. The facilities can be rented for the purpose of community activities including performing arts and concerts.
The building houses banquets hosts celebrations. It regularly serves as a meeting site for Masonic and appendant Bodies. If you have never toured the building, it's an interesting and fun way to get a new perspective on Alexandria, Old Town and Masonry.
The King St. Metro stops at the foot of the hill where King St. veers away from Old Town. From the Memorial, and from the Metro, one can look down King St. toward the Potomac to the unique shops, boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs and activities of Old Town Alexandria. The area has some of the shops you would expect in an upscale mall, but many of shops and restaurants you'll find only here.
Old Town Alexandria was a Colonial seaport. It is located down-river and within eyesight of Washington DC. Alexandria was George Washington's hometown. The city's roster of historic sites underlines how historically influential it has been. Thomas Jefferson entertained at Gadsby's Tavern; Robert E. Lee worshipped at Christ Church.
The Old Town district includes more than 4,000 historic buildings, outstanding examples of early American architecture that now house small businesses and gracious homes, all waiting to give you a modern welcome. Old Town is characterized by brick sidewalks that line historic structures. Elegant modern structures are carefully planned to fit with the feel of Old Town.
Real Estate in Old Town is generally pricey and prestigious. Parking can be a bit of a hassle, especially in touristy areas along King St. Therefore, a great way to explore the area is to take the Metro to King St. and then hop a ride on the King St. Trolley. The trolley runs its route from 10 am to 10 pm every day. A printable map is available for those who know nothing about the area.
There is no charge to ride the trolley and it makes stops about every two blocks between the King St. Metro and the Potomac. The length of this circuit can be walked in about 20 minutes, so many choose to take the trolley to the Potomac and then walk back to the Metro through Old Town.
The Trolley makes it final stop before returning to the Metro near the Torpedo Factory. Just as the name implies, the Torpedo Factory was torpedo factory in the early part of the last century. Today it is a world-renowned art center with three floors of open studios and galleries. Here, one can observe artists and purchase original artwork. The Torpedo Factory is on the waterfront where street musicians and entertainers play nearly every night.
The Trolley was designed to compliment service by the National Harbor's new Water Taxi. The National Harbor is located across the Potomac in Maryland and is the site of a brand new convention center. The convention center and many restaurants are already open in this brand new area landmark. Additionally boat service is available up and down river from the Strand in Old Town.
What's for sale?
Click King St. Metro to see a map of King St. Metro and to search property for sale near the metro. If you're looking for a comprehensive list of properties for sale near the metro check here.
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Mount Vernon Rec Center
The Mount Vernon Recreation Center is a county run facility with a multitude of activities and services including a fully equipped weight room and work-out facilities. In addition to the Mount Vernon Rec Center, the county provides indoor pools at nearby Lee District Rec Center and George Washington Rec Center. For a complete list of area pools and swimming related activities, check the Alexandria Masters Swim club.
The Rec Center has year round ice skating and ice hockey.
There is a heated indoor pool, sauna, and diving platforms.
Martha Washington Library
The Rec Center neighbors Martha Washington Library.
Telephone: 703-768-6700
TTY: 703-324-8365
The library is on Fort Hunt Road and is adjacent to Mount Vernon District Park. It is surrounded by woods which connect to the neighborhood by paths and foot-bridges.
Fort Hunt Park
Fort Hunt Park consists of 105 acres located along the Potomac River in Fairfax County, Virginia, approximately 6 miles south of Old Town Alexandria. The Park is a part of the over 7,000 acres that make up the George Washington Memorial Parkway. The lands of Fort Hunt Park were originally a part of George Washington's personal farm and were became a military outpost and now serves as a picnic area and nature park.
So that all may better understand the history of Fort Hunt, the Park Service has begun research to uncover the names of the many veterans who served at Fort Hunt when it was a military outpost.
Fort Hunt Park was converted into a fortification during the Spanish - American War. In 1897 the fort was modernized for military operations. During War World II the fort was used as a top secret military intelligence outpost.
After both World War I and World War II, Fort Hunt was virtually abandoned due to military cutbacks. The National Park Service now adminstrates Fort Hunt Park a recreational park for public use. Fort Hunt has been a focal point of personal dramas of all kind throughout its history, but now it's dedicated to public recreation.
Hours are 7am until sunset year round for general use. From April - October reservations are needed to use some areas of the park. For information about homes and neighborhoods near and around Fort Hunt Road check out Fort Hunt Info.
[back to top]Lloyd House
Built between 1796-1797 in Georgian style by John Wise, the Lloyd House was occupied the Lloyd family from 1832-1918 and home to Carolyn Hallowell Miller, a suffragist leader after the Civil War. The Lloyd House use to be a branch of the Alexandria Library but now houses the Office of Historic Alexandria.
Many events are welcome to take place at the Lloyd House such as weddings, rehearsal dinners, fund-raisers, and workshops. Only the first floor and garden is permitted for use and could accommodate 100 people depending on the type of venue. The North Parlor Room has a maximum capacity of 50 seated dinner/meeting and 90 limited seating, mixer event. There is one unisex bathroom on the first floor for public use.
Facilities Coordinator
Lloyd House
220 N. Washington Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 838-4554
For your real estate needs and around Alexandria, please contact Will Nesbitt of Condo Alexandria. We serve buyers, sellers, renters and landlords.
[back to top]Lyceum
The Lyceum was built in 1839 and was founded by a group of gentlemen who formed with the Alexandria Library Company. Over the years the Lyceum has served many purposes.
Before the Civil War, the Lyceum was a cultural center in Alexandria but this was ended when the war came to the city. During the Civil War, the Lyceum was a hospital by the Union Army. It has been an office building, a private home, and was the nation's first Bicentennial Center. In 1985 The Lyceum became Alexandria's Historical Museum.
Now The Lyceum can be rented for many purposes such as concerts, lectures, school programs, volunteer functions that the whole community can participate in, and also weddings.
The outside of the building is in the Greek style form of architecture which gives The Lyceum a distinct look. For tourists who plan to visit The Lyceum there are many historical memorabilia items which include the Civil War, documents, antique silver, photographs, furniture, and 19th century stoneware. The Lyceum was intended to be the cultural center of Alexandria and now it has returned to its former prominence.
The Lyceum is a very charming place and anyone who would like to visit will not be disappointed. The Lyceum is at the heart of Old Town Alexandria and is a charming and wonderful place to live.
[back to top]Mount Vernon & More
Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens is the oldest national historic preservation organization in the country, and it has always been in the forefront of the restoration field. Mount Vernon is the most popular historic estate in America and is open 365 days a year. Mount Vernon was the home of our first President George Washington. The grounds are well-preserved as is the home itself.
Alexandria Lyceum is a grand hall built in the late 1800's to provide a place for lectures, scientific experiments and quiet reading. Since that time, it has been a Civil War hospital, a private home, an office building and the nation's first Bicentennial Center. In 1985, The Lyceum became Alexandria's History Museum, providing exhibitions, school programs, lectures and concerts, volunteer opportunities and space for rental functions for the community. The Lyceum Museum Shop carries a wide variety of maps, books, note cards and special items related to Alexandria's history. The present-day Lyceum Company serves the museum as a membership and fund-raising organization.
Walk to Old Towne! Old Towne is filled with
historic landmarks, carriage rides and walking history tours.
Just a few miles down George Washington Parkway is the nationally renown collection of museums called the Smithsonian Institution. The Smithsonian National Zoological Park is a wonderful zoo.
Civil War enthusiasts might want to inspect Fort Willard just as President Lincoln did. Fort Willard has long since abandoned its military use and is now a quiet park like Fort Hunt.
If you are interested in architecture and local history visit Frank Lloyd Wright's Pope-Leighey House or the Woodlawn Plantation. The Collingwood Library and musuem is dedicated to providing information about our national heritage to the American Public. Collingwood is available to anyone who cares to learn of the heroic efforts made by American Patriots, particularly members of the Masonic Fraternity, in founding and developing this, the greatest nation on earth.
Collingwood is a resource as a local library but also interesting place to visit in it's own right.
Oronoco Bay Park
Oronoco Bay Park is a 4.5 acre Alexandria City park is located on the Potomac River at 701 North Lee Street. It has many entry points, the most obvious are at either the Madison or Pendleton Streets entries or from the Wythe Street Plaza. The plaza entry is approximately in the center of the park and there is also a sidewalk entry with trees and turf area between the Sheet Metal Workers of America building and the United Way building.
The park was once known as "Texaco Bay" and before that it was owned by Standard Oil Company which was owned by John D. Rockefeller. However, the City acquired the property (and changed to Oronoco Bay Park) in the early 1980's. Historically, the Alexandria area was inhabited by Indians when Captain John Smith sailed up the Potomac in the mid 17th Century.
The park host several festivals and events including the annual "Red Cross Waterfront Festival"---the largest Red Cross fund raiser in the United States. Private concerns may reserve and rent the park for their events as well.
This park is part of the linear park system along the Potomac. People can walk, jog or bike along the river path and enjoy the many sitting and picnic areas. There are wooden sun decks out into the river and a wooden boardwalk path that connects the path to the point where the bay and river meet near the Rowing Facility building.
Reagan National Airport
The Mount Vernon trail weaves from Mount Vernon to Reagan National and beyond, passing Porto Vecchio. Residents can make use of the Porto Vecchio limo when travelling.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, formerly Washington National Airport, is on the Potomac across the river from Washington DC. Along with Baltimore Washington International and Dulles International, Reagan National is one of three major airports serving the Washington Metro area. Reagan National is easily my favorite of the three airports for a number of reasons.
Dulles and BWI are massive sprawling airports with shuttle buses and mobile lounges. Reagan National barely has enough room for the runway. I always like smaller airports. They feel like they are scaled to human beings. There is plenty of security at National, but it seems to move along more smoothly than Dulles or BWI.
Dulles and BWI are outside the Beltway at the periphery of the Washington Capitol Area. Reagan National is at the heart of everything, wedged at the confluence of DC, Alexandria and Arlington. For me, it's a long drive just to get to BWI or Dulles, but Reagan National is here, and it's accessible by Metro. Reagan National is a station on both the Yellow and Blue lines.
Extended parking is available at Dulles or BWI, but on the shuttle bus, the ride from the parking lot to the terminal seems like a mile or more. At Reagan National, extended parking is at my house. Because instead of taking a shuttle, I can take the Metro to the airport.
The runway is a short at Reagan National and it launches planes up over GW Parkway and at the Washington Monument, requiring a steep climb and a hard left on take off. Some folks find this terrifying, but I have to admit I love it. I know it's a safe path, because planes take off here day and night, so I sit back and enjoy the abrupt take-off and turn.
Reagan National is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week, although many ticket counters and restaurants in the airport close during off-hours. Reagan National is located within the Commonwealth of Virginia, but it has a Washington DC address to identify the airport's location more easily for travelers.
The Perimeter Rule and the High Density Rule affect flights at Reagan National. Under the Perimeter Rule, nonstop aircraft flights are limited to a range of 1,250 miles or less. In 2000, Congress permitted the FAA to allow six round-trip flights to points outside the perimeter. The High Density Rule (or "Slot" rule) limits the number of landings or takeoffs allowed in an hour. The rule affects Reagan National because of the Airport's limited airfield capacity.
Reagan National is located in Arlington County near/in Crystal City. It is most easily accessed from the George Washington Parkway. There are a good many condos and homes in the Crystal City area and they're all just a metro stop away from Reagan National. The take-off and approach to Reagan National is down the Potomac, so that area residents get very little noise or fly-over from the jets at Reagan National.
[back to top]Robert E. Lee's Boyhood Home
Robert Edward Lee, (1807-1870), was a American Soldier and a General in the Confederate Army during the U.S. Civil War. Robert E. Lee's boyhood home is now a private residence, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and by the Virginia Historic landmark Commission located on 607 Oronoco Street in Alexandria's famous "Old Town" district. As a private residence it is no longer open for tours by the public. However, a virtual tour is still available online.
Many historical events took place at Robert E. Lee's home including a marriage in the drawing room between Mary Lee Fitzhugh to George Washington Custis (grandson of Martha Washington). Twenty-seven years later, Mary Lee's daughter, Mary Ann Randolph Curtis married Robert E. Lee.
The home was built in 1795 by John Potts Jr., who worked with George Washington on the C&O Canal, purchased by William Fitzhugh in 1799. After his death the home was put up for rental and the Lee family rented it from 1812-1825.
The foyer included many important historical pieces, the Lee Family coat-of-arms featuring the family motto: "Not Unmindful of the Future". There are several pastels rendered by David Silvette depicting Robert E. Lee at various stages of his military career. Furnishings such as the eighteenth century grandfather clock, and Federal-style mahogany side chairs help frame portraits of Robert E. Lee and Mary Ann Randolph Custis Lee.
The dining room includes a portrait of Robert's father, Henry "Light-Horse Henry" Lee. The Lafayette Room or Drawing Room is named after Marquise de Lafayette, who was the last surviving general of the American Revolution. Lafayette toured the home as a guest of the Unites States. The Morning Room was restored in 1976 and was used as a family room because of the ample space.
The kitchen included the finest kitchen equipment of the time when built in 1795. When open as a museum the kitchen also included the Genealogy of the Lee Family printed in 1886, Genealogy Chart of Fitzhugh-Grymes Family, and Kentucky Walnut Sugar Chest.
The grand staircase has five portraits of Robert E. Lee in ten year intervals. The nursery is on the second floor landing. General Lee's room has many items used by R.E. Lee, including an antique walnut baby cradle, a baby walker, and a sheraton corner washstand.
The grounds of the home were mainly used for growing and not primarily ornamental as they are now.
The home makes an interesting stop on a walking tour of Old Town Alexandria. Old Town is home to many historical sites and stops and is a vibrant community on the Potomac just a few miles from Washington DC. Visitors and residents alike are welcomed to take the free King St. Trolley or to visit monuments such as the Alexandria Lighthouse. In addition to many historic structures in Old Town, there are modern and beautiful homes such as those found at the Duke of Alexandria and condos like those found at Port Royal.
[back to top]Stabler Leadbeater Apothecary
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum was opened by a Quaker pharmacist Edward Stabler in 1792 and is one of the oldest pharmacies in the country. Located on 105-107 South Fairfax Street Alexandria, Virginia in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. In addition to being a pharmacist, Stabler was dedicated to the abolition of slavery and the educational opportunities. Among other accomplishments, Stabler purchased many slaves for the express purpose of granting their freedom. Edward Stabler died in 1831, but his son continued to run the business for many years after.
This particular building served and survived through many important events in United States history such as the War of 1812. The pharmacy was of great importance during the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1821, During the Civil War the apothecary furnished medicines for the Union. The pharmacy also served during the Spanish-American War of 1898, and World War I.
Finally, in 1933 the shop closed due to the Great Depression. At that time the contents of the shop were sold and the money that was raised was used to preserve the property as a museum. In 1939 the shop re-opened as a museum and 43 years later Stabler Leadbeater Apothecary Museum became a member on the National Register of Historic Places.
With over 8,000 objects, gold-leaf labels, hand-blown medicine bottles, pill rollers, show-globes, mortars, and pestles, the museum provides visitors with a wide, fantastic collection. The first floor is in the Gothic Revival style from 1835. The second floor names of herbs and medicine are in their original hand writing placed on the walls and shelving of the interior. The Apothecary is home to many important artifacts, journals, receipts, ledgers, and invoices, and also include many historical figures names in documents, Martha Washington, James Monroe, and Robert E. Lee.
The purpose of the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is to promote the history and educate people about the values of Edward Stabler. More importantly, the museum promotes a better knowledge of historic public health issues of the past. It was a center of daily life in Old Town Alexandria and as a museum the apothecary is still having an positive impact today.
Admission is $4.00 for adults, $2.00 for children. This museum is just one of the many features that make Old Town an attractive destination for tourists and a highly prized location for residents. Parking can be a hassle in Old Town, but this can be avoided by taking the Metro and the King St. Free Trolley, which stops near the museum.
[back to top]Torpedo Factory
The Torpedo Factory is a beautiful art center with six galleries, over eighty artist studios, two work shops, and the Alexandria Archeology Museum. The Torpedo Factory Art Center is located on three floors for your viewing pleasure and is one of the largest art center in the entire United States.
All this is located on the Potomac water front which is a prime location for any important cultural center. With over one hundred-sixty artists producing original works, there are many opportunities to buy one of a kind high quality works from all types of mediums including paintings, print making, jewelry, ceramics, stained glass, sculpture, and photography.
The six galleries which all are welcome to view are, Scope Gallery (ceramics), The Art League Gallery, The Target Gallery, Enamelists Gallery, Multiple Exposures Gallery (photographs), and Potomac Craftsmen Fiber Gallery.
If the mood strikes you and you would like to contribute your own artistic skills there is also classes at the Art League School. The classes can be taken for those who are over five years old, and students must be at least eighteen to enroll in the adult program.
The Archeology Museum offers a wide variety of activities such as family dig days, biking and walking tours.
Whichever you are into, paintings, sculptures, or archeology, The Torpedo Factory will have what you are looking for. It is a wonderful place for people of all ages to enjoy.
The Torpedo Factory is at the heart of Old Town Alexandria located in the midst of the Northern Virginia's most sought after real estate. Residences here have access to the Torpedo Factory and many shops and restaurants, as well as attractions such as the Lyceum. All this is connected via the King St. Trolley to the Washington Metro system.
- Torpedo Factory Condominiums --- condos at the heart of Old Town
- About Torpedo Factory Condos --- Torpedo Factory condos are near the Potomac waterfront in Alexandria VA
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Property Search
To search properties in Old Town check out any of the following links.
- For sale — Live data on all condos for sale in 22314 zip code.
- Area Rentals — Live data on rentals in and near Alexandria VA
