Old Town Alexandria in a Day with Round Trip Ferry Cruise

4.6
(20 reviews)

5 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Escape busy Washington, D.C. for an afternoon and enjoy a historic journey to Alexandria’s Old Town. With convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this tour makes it easy to experience one of America’s best-preserved colonial towns. After a scenic boat trip down the Potomac to Old Town Alexandria, you'll disembark to begin your journey through hundreds of years of American history. Step inside the storied Gadsby’s Tavern, where Washington and Jefferson once dined; explore the elegant Carlyle House, a social center in colonial times; pause for a snack at a local bakery; continue your journey in Washington's footsteps at his parish, Christ Church Alexandria, where Washington himself prayed—and so much more. You'll even glide down King Street on a vintage trolley and enjoy free time to explore this quaint town’s art galleries, shops, and cafes before you hop back on the boat for a relaxing return cruise to D.C.

What's Included

Local English-speaking guide
Cupcake from local bakery
Tickets to Gadsby's Tavern
Round-trip ferry transport
Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets at 950 Wharf St. SW Washington DC 20024 (it is on the other side of the street of The Anthem Theater, please meet your guide near the boat dock).

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 5 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Potomac River

    Begin your Alexandria day trip with a scenic boat cruise down the Potomac River, leaving Washington, D.C. behind as you sail toward Alexandria’s storied Old Town.

    30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 2

    Step into the Carlyle House, a stunning Georgian mansion built in 1753 that became a social epicenter in the colonial era. Nearby, you'll also visit Wise’s Tavern, a favorite of George Washington, and imagine the conversations that shaped a new nation within its walls.

    35 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Treat yourself to a locally made cupcake from this beloved small business. Your cupcake is included with the ticket.

    10 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 4

    Take a quick, charming ride on the vintage King Street Trolley through Old Town Alexandria.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Visit the historic church where George Washington worshiped, steeped in American history.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Snap photos of the famously narrow Spite House and learn about quirky colonial architecture. Then walk by the home of George Washington and dive deeper into his life in Alexandria.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    Step back in time at Gadsby’s Tavern, where Washington, Jefferson, and Lafayette dined and socialized. This preserved 18th-century tavern offers a rare look at how America’s Founding Fathers spent their leisure time.

    45 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 8

    Visit this 18th-century pharmacy, which Martha Washington frequented for remedies.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 9

    Stroll along this picturesque street, lined with historic colonial homes.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 10

    Wrap up your journey with free time to explore King Street, where you can wander through charming galleries, shop for souvenirs, or relax at one of the cozy cafes or restaurants near the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 11
    Potomac River

    End your day with a relaxing return cruise to Washington, D.C. and take in scenic river views.

    30 minutes Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This tour is in English.
  • Guests should feel comfortable walking at a moderate pace on sometimes uneven terrain.
  • There is free time towards the end of the tour for food, so we encourage guests to bring snacks and water.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
Supplied by Walks - USA

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Tags

Day Trips
Half-day Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Water Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Seasonal
Excellent Quality
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.6 Based on 20 20 reviews
5 stars
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