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.
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ Local English-speaking guide
✔ Cupcake from local bakery
✔ Tickets to Gadsby's Tavern
✔ Round-trip ferry transport
✖ Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
✖ Gratuities
Departure & Return
Departure:
,
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).
Return: End right where it started.
Itinerary
1
Potomac River
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.
Duration: 30 minutes
2
Carlyle House
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.
Duration: 35 minutes
3
Treat yourself to a locally made cupcake from this beloved small business. Your cupcake is included with the ticket.
Duration: 10 minutes
4
Take a quick, charming ride on the vintage King Street Trolley through Old Town Alexandria.
Duration: 10 minutes
5
Alexandria's Christ Church
Visit the historic church where George Washington worshiped, steeped in American history.
Duration: 30 minutes
6
Hollensbury Spite House
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.
Duration: 30 minutes
7
Gadsby's Tavern Museum
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.
Duration: 45 minutes
8
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Visit this 18th-century pharmacy, which Martha Washington frequented for remedies.
Duration: 20 minutes
9
Captain's Row
Stroll along this picturesque street, lined with historic colonial homes.
Duration: 15 minutes
10
Old Town Alexandria Waterfront
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.
Duration: 45 minutes
11
Potomac River
End your day with a relaxing return cruise to Washington, D.C. and take in scenic river views.
Duration: 30 minutes
Additional info
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• 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.
