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Compass
3001 Washington Blvd., #400,
Arlington, VA 22201 -
The Vantage Realty Group
Charming historic district with a vibrant Main Street
Old Town is an energetically historic district with a vibrant Main Street on the banks of the Potomac. The cobblestone streets of this picturesque district are paved with history. Built in the 18th century, Gadsby’s Tavern’s regular customers once included George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and several other Founding Fathers. Old Town tops many lists of the best places to live or visit in the United States and is packed with historical sites, art galleries, museums, taverns, gift shops, and upscale waterfront restaurants. Housing options within Old Town span the centuries since its founding in 1749. The district’s streets are lined with Victorian row houses, elegant Colonials, grand estates, and newer constructions designed to preserve its rich historic character.
Old Town has topped many lists of the nation’s best places to visit or live. There’s much to see and do in this beautiful historic neighborhood, from endless shopping and dining options to recreation on the Potomac riverfront. Many Old Town residents make an easy commute into D.C. via car, metro, or bike.
King Street runs through the heart of Old Town, and the King Street Mile is this charming area’s main shopping and dining stretch. King Street is an enchanting place to take a stroll, with historic buildings lining its brick-paved streets and cobblestone alleyways. Along King Street, you’ll find a wide variety of boutiques, brands, gift shops, restaurants, pubs, and music venues. Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub is a landmark gathering place near the start of the King Street Mile. Stop by for a drink and delicious pub grub or special events such as trivia nights and live Irish music. Innovative farm-to-table eatery Vermillion is another King Street favorite where Barack and Michelle Obama once enjoyed a romantic Valentine’s Day meal. Located south of the King Street Mile on Washington Street, Southside 815 has made many lists of the best restaurants in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area. Their menu provides a gourmet twist on classic Southern cooking. Some of Southside 815’s specialties include slow-cooked baby back ribs, jambalaya pasta, catfish platters, and New Orleans-style po’boys. You can also choose from 18 draft beers and watch the big game on over a dozen televisions. Head to the Old Town waterfront for upscale seafood spots overlooking the Potomac. Highlights here include Maryland crab cakes and signature cocktails at Blackwall Hitch and mouthwatering steaks and fresh seafood at Chart House.
Old Town is a popular destination for its unique annual events. The Scottish Christmas Walk is a seasonal tradition where tartan-clad bagpipers, drummers, and Scottish dancers parade through Old Town’s streets. Other events associated with the Scottish Walk include Scottish cuisine tasting events and a tour of historic Old Town homes decked out in holiday decorations. First Night Alexandria is the largest New Year’s Eve celebration in the D.C. area. The streets of Old Town are alive with activity during First Night, with around 100 performances taking place across the neighborhood. Highlights of this huge Old Town party include a Kids’ Karnival early in the evening followed by live music on the waterfront and an enormous fireworks display at midnight. Founders Park is the perfect place to while away a sunny afternoon on the banks of the Potomac. This peaceful riverfront green space features grass lawns, walking trails, picnic benches, volleyball courts, and a dog park.
Old Town is served by the Alexandria City Public Schools District.
Compass
3001 Washington Blvd., #400,
Arlington, VA 22201
The Vantage Realty Group