Where: Alexandria, VA
When: May 29, 1997 and subsequent visits after
With: Class field trip / Nic & David / Ashley's bachelorette
Seven miles south of Washington, DC, on the banks of the Potomac River, sits an adorable little port town called Alexandria. Though it is a short ride from the capital of the country, it feels worlds apart and looks like it was founded in 1749, complete with red brick buildings and cobblestoned streets. And it has quickly become one of my favorite neighborhoods in the DC area.
Funny thing about Alexandria is that I maintained into adulthood that I had never been there. So when visiting Nic and David in 2014, they suggested taking a trip to this beautiful town. As we strolled the streets and came to the edge of the river that put this bustling port on the map, I noticed in the distance a two story paddle boat that was incredibly familiar.
When: May 29, 1997 and subsequent visits after
With: Class field trip / Nic & David / Ashley's bachelorette
Seven miles south of Washington, DC, on the banks of the Potomac River, sits an adorable little port town called Alexandria. Though it is a short ride from the capital of the country, it feels worlds apart and looks like it was founded in 1749, complete with red brick buildings and cobblestoned streets. And it has quickly become one of my favorite neighborhoods in the DC area.
Funny thing about Alexandria is that I maintained into adulthood that I had never been there. So when visiting Nic and David in 2014, they suggested taking a trip to this beautiful town. As we strolled the streets and came to the edge of the river that put this bustling port on the map, I noticed in the distance a two story paddle boat that was incredibly familiar.
That's because on my 8th grade field trip to DC, we had an evening on the river, complete with dinner and dancing middle school style. And no question that this is the same boat! This is the Cherry Blossom, a recreation of a 19th-century river boat.
So this contradicts the thought that I had never been to Alexandria, VA. Here we all are, braces and windbreakers, enjoying the old wood paneling and ornate steel railings of the boat.
A more recent view on the Potomac.
Well, now that I realize I have been to Alexandria, let's be sure to take a closer look and remember for the future. As I said, the streets of Alexandria look like they've been trapped in time. It is freakin' adorable. Little boutiques line the streets, making this an ideal area for casual strolling.
Many of the homes date back to the 18th and 19th century, and the owners appear to take great pride in maintaining them to historical accuracy. There's beautiful tree-lined courtyards and gas lanterns still adorn the doorways. And there are plenty of American flags hanging about, reminding visitors that they are basically in the capital of the country.
Given the long history of this place coupled with its proximity to the capital, it's no surprise that there are a lot of famous people that have walked these streets. Plaques explaining the famous buildings and events abound all over the place.
Even the restaurants hold historical importance. For example, Gadsby's Tavern is famous for being frequented by George Washington himself. Built in 1785, it used to be a central social gathering spot for the city of Alexandria and was officially designated a National Landmark in 1963. And we were able to snag a reservation when we were there for my sister's bridal shower, enjoying some of the classic staples that have been on the menu since George dined there.
Another more modern restaurant is Virtue Feed & Grain. While the restaurant is new, the building is not, serving as a feed warehouse back in the 1800s. It had a beautiful interior, and puts on a great bridal shower, if you're ever in need of a place.
It's pretty hard not to love Alexandria, with all its charm and history. I may not have remembered the first time I went here, but it has certainly made an impact now and I don't think I'll soon forget.
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