Picture yourself walking
along the same cobblestone streets as did George Washington over 200 years ago,
appreciating the significance of the numerous historical buildings, or visiting
beautiful and stately Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens. This is part of the
experience of a visit to Alexandria, Virginia, a truly American city.
Located just minutes from
the Nation’s capitol, Alexandria is steeped in history and culture and offers a
wide variety of things to do. Possibilities range from visiting George
Washington's home to dining on the lovely Potomac River. Over one million people
visit Alexandria each year to see and experience its history and charm. Daily
offerings include dining in Colonial taverns, shopping in the specialty shops of
Old Town, taking a walking tour of the City's historic sites and homes or a boat
ride along the waterfront. It's all here and just waiting for you.
Founded by a group of
Scottish tobacco merchants, the seaport town of Alexandria came into being on a
sunny day in July 1749, when a 60-acre tract of land was auctioned off in 1/2
acre lots. As you stroll the brick sidewalks and cobblestone streets of highly
gentrified Old Town, the city's official historic district, you can see more
than 2,000 buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. You can actually
visit the tavern where over two centuries ago, the men who created this nation
discussed politics, freedom, and the revolution over tankards of ale. You can
even stand in the doorway of the tavern where George Washington reviewed his
troops for the last time, walk past Robert E. Lee's boyhood home, and sit in the
pews of Christ Church where both men worshipped.
Today, Old Town Alexandria
remains filled with reminders of its incredible history and with an array of
quaint shops, boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants as well. Indeed, if
George Washington and Robert E. Lee should happen to stop by there today (after
dodging the anxious motorists jockeying their cars for prized parking spaces),
Washington and Lee would still recognize their old hometown.
Alexandria is rich in
opportunities for travelers who are visiting Virginia and Washington, D.C.
The Colonial charm of 18th and 19th century America comes to life in the
restored homes and shops throughout the City. You can feel the power of history
surrounding you as you stroll the preserved cobblestone streets and enjoy the
historic waterfront, only minutes away from Washington's majestic monuments and
attractions.
No matter what time of year
you visit, Alexandria is sure to provide you with both entertainment and
history. It is a “must see” city.
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