Carlyle House Historic Park / Photo courtesy of K. Summerer for Visit Alexandria
Carlyle House Historic Park
Built in 1753 by Scottish businessman—and founder of Alexandria—John Carlyle, Carlyle House was once a key place for politics and socializing. Today, it’s considered one of the best examples of Georgian architecture in the country, and offers tours, kid-friendly events and Secret Garden-esque green space that’s popular in warmer weather ; $3-$5
Freedom House Museum
Alexandria’s Freedom House Museum was once the hub of one of the largest slave trading companies in the United States. In 1996, the Northern Virginia Chapter of the Urban League purchased the historic building and reopened it as a museum. Using first person accounts and modern technology, visitors learn what life was like for enslaved African-Americans in the 19th century ; $5
The Lyceum: Alexandria’s History Museum
Alexandria’s rich history is on display in this Old Town museum, which was founded all the way back in 1838. Containing more than 5,000 artifacts, the site was once a Civil War hospital ward and the Nation’s first Bicentennial Visitor Center ; $2
Don’t Miss: The Lyceum hosts an after work concert series on the second Friday of each month. On Dec. 14, enjoy a Christmas concert as you wind down from a long week. 6-8 p.m.; $5
Alexandria Archaeology Museum
Catch a glimpse of the town’s history by examining original artifacts recovered from archaeological digs in the city. The museum, inside the Torpedo Factory Arts Center, focuses on the history and pre-history of Alexandria, starting 13,000 years ago with Native American tools and pottery ; free
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
Patrons George Washington, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson were regular visitors at this tavern-turned-museum. Tour guides lead guests through the historic house and tavern buildings to see the dining, entertainment and accommodations that were available when John Gadsby was the tavern keeper ; $3-$5
Don’t Miss: The tavern hosts period balls throughout the year. Dress up in costume and come out for some living history with live music, historically accurate desserts and drinks, and, of course, dancing.
The Athenaeum
The Northern Virginia Fine Arts Association is located in this historic building in Old Town. The museum hosts art exhibits plus a pretty unique lineup of events. Past events included a beach-inspired end-of-summer party and a party that celebrated famously banned books ; free
