Overview

What distinguishes this tour is its focus on the underlying historical factors that shaped the city. By the end of the tour, participants will have a profound understanding of the various structural conditions - such as geography, hydrology, administration, and commerce - that played a crucial role in transforming Alexandria into the city it became by the mid-19th century.

Description

Stop At: Alexandria City Hall & Market Square, 301 King St, Alexandria, Virginia 22314

Alexandria Market Square in Virginia holds a significant place in American history, dating back to the colonial period when it was a bustling hub for tobacco trade. During the Civil War, the square served as a site for military drills and recruitment, as well as a holding place for prisoners of war. Today, the square is a vibrant gathering spot for locals and tourists, with its farmers market, live music, and cultural events celebrating the city's rich history and diverse community. It is the oldest continuously active farmers market in the United States and was frequented by George Washington!

Duration: 10 minutes

Stop At: Carlyle House, 121 N Fairfax St, Alexandria, Virginia 22314

Caryle House in Alexandria, Virginia, played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. Built in 1752 by Scottish merchant John Carlyle, the house became a center for political and social gatherings in the years leading up to the Revolution. In 1755, the house hosted a meeting of the Ohio Company, which played a crucial role in the conflict between Britain and France over the Ohio River Valley. During the Revolution, the house served as the headquarters for British General Edward Braddock and later, as the residence of American hero General George Washington. Today, Caryle House is a museum and National Historic Landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and the chance to explore the home of one of Alexandria's most prominent historical figures.

Duration: 10 minutes

Stop At: Alexandria Visitors Center, 221 King St, Alexandria, Virginia 22314

Historic Ramsay House, located in Alexandria, Virginia, is a well-preserved example of 18th-century American architecture and a testament to the city's rich history. Built in 1724 by William Ramsay, a wealthy Scottish merchant, the house was once a bustling hub for political and social activity during the Revolutionary War era. It was even used as a hospital for injured soldiers during the War of 1812. Today, visitors can explore the elegant interiors of the house, which feature original woodwork, period furnishings, and stunning architectural details. The Ramsay House also serves as a hub for community events and educational programs, showcasing the enduring legacy of one of Alexandria's most prominent historical figures.

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Alexandria, Alexandria, Virginia

Fitzgerald's Warehouse in Alexandria, Virginia, is a significant piece of American commercial history. Built in late 18th century, the warehouse was once a bustling center for the storage and distribution of goods along the Potomac River.

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Waterfront Park, 1A Prince St, Alexandria, Virginia 22314

Alexandria Waterfront Park is a beautiful and historic park located along the Potomac River in Alexandria, Virginia. The park has been an important gathering place for locals and visitors alike for centuries, with a history dating back to the early days of colonial America. Today, the park offers stunning views of the river and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with picnic areas, walking trails, and a marina for boaters. The park also hosts a range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating the city's rich history and diverse community. Alexandria Waterfront Park is a testament to the enduring importance of the Potomac River and its central role in American history.

Duration: 10 minutes

Stop At: Alexandria, Alexandria, Virginia

Captain's Row in Alexandria, Virginia, is a collection of eighteenth-century homes that once belonged to some of the city's most prominent sea captains and merchants. The row of houses is a stunning example of Federal-style architecture and showcases the city's rich maritime history. Many of the houses were built in the late 1700s and early 1800s and have been impeccably preserved, with original features such as hand-carved woodwork and period furnishings. Today, Captain's Row is a popular tourist destination and serves as a hub for the city's cultural and artistic activities. The row of houses offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and the lives of its early residents, providing a unique and fascinating insight into American colonial life.

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Alexandria, Alexandria, Virginia

The Benjamin H. Dulaney House in Alexandria, Virginia, is a beautiful example of Federal-style architecture and a significant historical landmark.

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Alexandria, Alexandria, Virginia

The Marshall House in Alexandria, Virginia, is a historic landmark with a fascinating and dramatic history. Built in 1795 by James H. Marshall, a wealthy Scottish merchant, the house served as a hotel during the Civil War era. In 1861, Union soldiers entered the hotel to remove a Confederate flag that was flying from the rooftop.

Duration: 10 minutes

Stop At: Alexandria's Christ Church, 118 N Washington St, Alexandria, Virginia 22314

Alexandria Christ Church is a beautiful and historic church located in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. The church has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century and has been an important gathering place for the local community for centuries. The church was founded in 1765 and played a significant role in the American Revolution, with both George Washington and Robert E. Lee attending services there. The church is also famous for its beautiful architecture, including its stunning stained-glass windows and elegant bell tower. Today, Alexandria Christ Church continues to be an important religious and cultural center for the community, with regular worship services, concerts, and events held throughout the year. The church is a must-see destination for visitors to Alexandria and a cherished institution for local residents.

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Lee-Fendall House, 614 Oronoco St, Alexandria, Virginia 22314

The Lee-Fendall House Museum in Alexandria, Virginia, is a beautifully preserved historic home that was once the boyhood residence of Robert E. Lee, the famous Confederate general. Built in the early 19th century, the house served as the home of several prominent Alexandria families before being purchased by the Lee family in 1812. Robert E. Lee spent much of his childhood in the house and returned to visit throughout his life.

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Hollensbury Spite House, 523 Queen St, Alexandria, Virginia 22314

The Spite House of Alexandria is a unique and intriguing historical landmark located in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. Built in 1830, the house is just seven feet wide and 25 feet deep, making it one of the narrowest homes in the country. The house was built by John Hollensbury, who reportedly built the house to block the alleyway next to his main home and prevent people from using it as a shortcut. Legend has it that Hollensbury was motivated by a dispute with his neighbor, who he believed had been using the alleyway to spy on his home. Today, the Spite House of Alexandria is a popular tourist attraction and a unique example of architectural oddities.

Duration: 10 minutes

Stop At: Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N Royal St, Alexandria, Virginia 22314

Gadsby's Tavern is a historic landmark located in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, and is widely considered one of the most important cultural institutions in the city. The tavern was built in 1785 and served as a popular gathering place for local residents and visitors throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. The tavern played host to many famous historical figures, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams. Today, Gadsby's Tavern is a museum and cultural center that showcases the history and legacy of the building and its role in American history.

Duration: 10 minutes