Plan Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Old Town Alexandria

Old Town is one of the easiest day trips or weekend getaways in the Washington, DC area — just minutes from the airport and a quick Metro ride from downtown DC. Here's how to get here, where to park, and how to make the most of your visit.

Getting Here

How to arrive

Old Town is remarkably easy to reach.

By Metro

Take the Blue or Yellow line to King St-Old Town station, then hop the free King Street Trolley straight down to the waterfront. Reagan National Airport (DCA) is just one stop away.

By Water Taxi

In season, cruise in by water taxi from The Wharf and Georgetown in DC or from National Harbor — arriving right at the Old Town marina.

By Car

Easy access from I-495, the GW Parkway, and Route 1. From DCA airport it's about a 10-minute drive.

Parking in Old Town

Old Town has several public parking garages plus metered street parking. A few tips:

  • Garages near Market Square and the waterfront are your most reliable bet on busy weekends.
  • Metered street parking is enforced during posted hours — check the signs and the ParkMobile zones.
  • Street parking is generally free on Sundays and holidays (always confirm current city rules).
  • Consider parking once and walking — Old Town is compact and very pedestrian-friendly.

Getting Around

The free King Street Trolley runs daily up and down King Street between the Metro and the waterfront, so you can park (or arrive) once and ride the rest. Capital Bikeshare stations and flat, walkable blocks make biking and walking easy too.

Best Time to Visit

Old Town is a year-round destination. Spring brings blossoms and patio weather; summer is peak waterfront season; fall offers crisp strolls and festivals; and the winter holidays are magical, with the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade and the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. See our events calendar to time your visit with a festival.

Where to Stay

Old Town hotels

Stay in the district and you can walk to dinner, the river, and the shops without ever moving your car. Book early for parade weekends and Restaurant Week.

Boutique & Historic

Boutique

Morrison House, Autograph Collection

A 45-room Federalist-style boutique hotel a block off King Street, blending colonial elegance with modern comfort.

Boutique

The Alexandrian, Autograph Collection

A stylish hotel in the heart of Old Town, steps from Market Square, with a rooftop bar.

Luxury

Hotel AKA Alexandria

Sleek contemporary design, a spa, and a buzzy bar near the north end of Old Town.

Boutique

Archer Hotel Old Town

A newer King Street boutique hotel with a brick courtyard, lobby bar, and spa.

Waterfront

Hotel Indigo Old Town

A riverside boutique hotel right on the waterfront, home to the Hummingbird restaurant.

Boutique

Lorien Hotel & Spa

A serene Kimpton boutique hotel and full-service spa on upper King Street.

Full-Service & Near the Metro

King Street

Hyatt Centric Old Town Alexandria

A modern hotel right on King Street with a rooftop bar overlooking Old Town.

King St Metro

Embassy Suites Old Town

An all-suite hotel beside the King St-Old Town Metro with included breakfast — handy for families.

King St Metro

Hilton Alexandria Old Town

A full-service hotel directly across from the Metro and the Masonic Memorial.

King St Metro

Hampton Inn Alexandria Old Town

Comfortable, reliable rooms within easy reach of the Metro and the free trolley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a car to visit Old Town Alexandria?

No. You can take the Metro to King St-Old Town and ride the free King Street Trolley to the waterfront, or arrive by seasonal water taxi. Old Town is very walkable once you're there.

Where should I park in Old Town?

Use a public garage near Market Square or the waterfront on busy days, or metered street parking (free on Sundays). Then explore on foot or by the free trolley.

How far is Old Town Alexandria from Washington, DC and the airport?

It's about a 10-minute drive or one Metro stop from Reagan National Airport (DCA), and roughly 15–20 minutes from downtown DC.

Ready to explore?

See what's on while you're in town, and start planning what to do and where to eat.

Things to DoEvents Calendar