Historic Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, USA Where the Fun Begins

monaco1 (48)in #alexandria • 8 years ago (edited)

The following pictures will give you a brief look at Old Town Alexandria and its Potomac River Waterfront where boat tours and water taxis are available. Nationally designated historic Old Town Alexandria is a twenty to thirty minute drive to downtown Washington DC. Old Town was founded in 1749 and has a number of historic architecture and attractions. President George Washington called it home as did Robert E. Lee. President Washington's famous home at Mount Vernon is 9 miles away. Old Town boasts many historic buildings among which is the Carlyle House which was originally the home of John Carlyle. The Carlyle House is an historic mid-Georgian style mansion, built by Scottish merchant John Carlyle in 1751–53. Old Town is famous for its Torpedo Factory Art Center, located on N. Union Street, which was a former World War II munitions factory converted into 82 artist studios and 6 galleries. The U.S. Navy constructed the original building and called it the U.S. Naval Torpedo Station. Once fully operational, it was responsible for the manufacture and maintenance of torpedoes. Alexandria's Original Ghost & Graveyard Tour is available for tourists. An 18th century costumed guide takes you through the historic streets of Alexandria’s Old Town where you’ll hear ghost stories, legends and folklore. Gadsby City Tavern’s Ballroom which was the location of George Washington’s Birthnight Ball in 1798 and 1799, as well as Thomas Jefferson’s Inaugural Banquet in 1801. Alexandria celebrated the 275th anniversary of George Washington’s birth at the annual George Washington Birthnight Banquet and Ball. Made famous by notable hosteler John Gadsby, the Birthnight Ball is a unique annual Alexandria tradition that continues today. John Gadsby 's establishment was the center of political, business, and social life in Alexandria and in the new federal city of Washington, D.C. Various cruises are available such as the Old Town Alexandria Cruise (2 hours), the Main Monuments Cruise (1 hour), the Mount Vernon Cruise (2 hours), and other cruises. The following pictures will provide a small preview into the charm of this old historic town. (These photos are originals)