Things to Do on a Budget in Alexandria, Virginia

April 17, 2024

Nestled along the Potomac River, Alexandria, Virginia, exudes historic allure and modern charm with its cobblestone streets and captivating museums just minutes from Washington, D.C.

Alexandria captivates visitors with its timeless charm and rich history. As a tourist destination, Alexandria invites exploration of its well-preserved architecture, waterfront parks, and vibrant neighborhoods. Immerse yourself in the city’s fascinating museums, stroll through Old Town’s quaint boutiques, or savor local flavors in diverse eateries.

This guide highlights affordable and free things to do in Alexandria so you can experience the character of this historic destination without overspending.

King Street Trolley

Ride the free King Street Trolley and absorb the beauty of the famous King Street Mile with its brick-lined sidewalks and cobblestone alleys surrounded by centuries-old architecture, historic attractions, restaurants and boutiques. The trolley runs every 15 minutes between Alexandria City Hall/Market Square and the King Street–Old Town Metro station from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week, including holidays.

Self-Guided History Tour

 

Alexandria offers several excellent self-guided history tours. One option focuses on African American history and includes stops at significant landmarks such as a historic Baptist church, a monument honoring abolitionists, the site of one of the nation’s first sit-ins, and the Freedom House Museum.

Another popular option is a waterfront walking tour along the African American Heritage Trail, highlighting the people, places, and neighborhoods along the Potomac River from the founding of Alexandria through the 20th century. A third walking tour takes visitors through a square mile of historic streets in Old Town Alexandria and showcases many of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Mount Vernon

Alexandria has more than 140 sites connected to the life of the nation’s first president. One of the most memorable experiences is visiting George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, located about eight miles from Old Town. The historic property includes the mansion, museum, gardens, Washington’s tomb, and educational exhibits.

Visitors can explore the estate, browse the shops, and take an audio tour to learn about Washington’s life and legacy. Colonial-style dining is also available at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant.

Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA

Torpedo Factory Art Center

Once a World War II torpedo factory, this building now houses one of the largest collections of publicly accessible working artist studios in the United States. Founded in 1974, the center includes three floors of studios featuring artists working in painting, ceramics, jewelry, printmaking and other media.

Additional gallery spaces showcase the work of many regional artists. Inside the building visitors can also find the Alexandria Archaeology Museum and an art gallery and school that hosts rotating exhibitions and classes.

Address: 105 North Union Street, Alexandria, VA

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

This historic apothecary was founded in 1792 and operated until 1933 before being preserved as a museum. Today the collection includes more than 15,000 objects ranging from herbal ingredients to medical devices used in early pharmacy.

Visitors can learn about unusual historical remedies and ingredients that were commonly used in the 19th century. The museum’s preserved interior, glass bottles and handwritten ledgers provide a fascinating glimpse into early American medicine.

Address: 301 King Street, Alexandria, VA

Old Town Farmers’ Market

The Old Town Farmers’ Market is the longest continually operating farmers’ market in the United States and takes place every Saturday morning. The market has been running for more than 260 years and was once supplied by produce from George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate.

Dozens of vendors sell fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, baked goods, flowers, handmade soaps, art and other locally produced goods.

Location: Market Square, 301 King Street, Alexandria, VA

Mount Vernon Trail

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy more than 20 miles of trails and hundreds of acres of protected open space in Alexandria. One of the most scenic options is the Mount Vernon Trail, which stretches about 18 miles from Mount Vernon to the national monuments in Washington, D.C.

The trail is also part of the larger East Coast Greenway, a long-distance route connecting Maine to Florida. Visitors can explore the trail by bike or on foot while enjoying views of the Potomac River.

National Inventors Hall of Fame

If you are fascinated by the innovators who shaped modern life, consider visiting the National Inventors Hall of Fame located inside the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office campus. The galleries celebrate hundreds of inventors and highlight the ideas and technologies that changed the world.

Interactive exhibits encourage creativity and learning, making it a great stop for families and curious travelers. Admission is free and the museum hosts rotating exhibits and educational programs throughout the year.

Address: 600 Dulany Street, Alexandria, VA

The Athenaeum

The Athenaeum is a historic Greek Revival building constructed in 1851 that now hosts exhibitions organized by the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Association. The building once served as a bank and later played a role during the Civil War when it was used by Union troops.

Today visitors can explore rotating art exhibitions showcasing regional artists while also appreciating the building’s historic architecture.

Address: 201 Prince Street, Alexandria, VA

River Farm

River Farm is a beautiful 25-acre historic property that once formed part of George Washington’s farmland. Today it serves as the headquarters of the American Horticultural Society and features gardens, scenic views of the Potomac River and seasonal flower displays.

The grounds include a manor house, children’s garden areas and wide meadows that make the property a peaceful place to relax. Admission is free, although donations are welcome to help maintain the gardens and programs.

Author: Bridgette Redman