The Many Musicians of Old Town

If you like street music, then you'll find no better spot to wander than Old Town Alexandria. Through-out the week, especially on weekends, musicians gather in Old Town at street corners and near the waterfront to play music for tips and applause. Most are highly talented professionals, some are learning to play their instrument in front of a crowd. I enjoy them both in different ways. Here in Old Town Alexandria, you'll find everything from a lonely saxophone, to steel drums to an entire band. Below I've collected a few photos to give you a taste of Old Town's many musicians. bluegrass This foursome was phenomenal singing and playing old time mountain music. It was a great throwback to the Carters because the gal in the front on the guitar was a great singer. The banjo player and bass were on point, and I love the texture that the mandolin (seated behind guitar) provided. Glass Harp The glass harp as played by Jamie Turner is an old town treat one simply must hear in person to appreciate.
harpist
Harpist
This miss not only strummed the harp to perfection but also sang beautifully. waterfront musicans At the waterfront behind the Torpedo Factory there are often a few soloists serving up music for passers-by. banjo and guitar I heard some fine picking and strumming from this pair.

Properties in Old Town Alexandria

You’ve heard of Old Town Alexandria’s Walled Gardens.

902 S Saint Asaph St

This is your chance to have one that is truly brag-worthy! The sellers have spent years planning, modifying and cultivating their outdoor space – both front and back. With a focus on plants native to the region, they individually selected each flower, shrub and groundcover with meticulous care for how the color and fragrance would complement other plantings. The result is beautiful, four-season interest. The garden has been maintained with ecologically-friendly products, compost and even earthworms, yielding a natural ecosystem attractive to (and healthy for) butterflies, hummingbirds and songbirds. The latticework brick walls and custom wooden gate incorporating an antique cast iron vent grate bring classic old-world charm to the inviting space. Set up seating on the brick patio to enjoy the environs! The front is deep and the steps are framed with more greenery, color and fragrant blossoms as you walk to the front door and covered portico. Check out the front and back walled garden planting “maps” with companion photos from the garden to see the beauty you’re in store for! **** Please don’t think that this description starts with the garden to distract from the interior of the house: it absolutely will not disappoint! Through the custom mahogany front door, the main level has a modern, open plan. The front living room features built-in cabinets/shelving and a wood-burning fireplace. A graceful arch separates the living and dining rooms with crown molding and a gallery artwork-hanging system in both. The dining room, with a Lindsey Adelman-designed light fixture, is open to a chef’s delight of a kitchen. Starting with a Viking professional-grade cooktop and Best By Broan vent hood above, the stainless steel appliances complement the two-tone custom cabinets with recessed doors, French floor tile and other high end finishings. For extra kitchen storage, there’s a pantry at the top of the stairs to the lower level, illuminated by an Artemide light fixture. At the back of the house is a sunroom addition with heated flooring and a ceiling fan for 4-season comfort, and a door with steps to the garden. **** Upstairs are two generous bedrooms. With Mahogany French doors between, the entire level can be used as a single primary suite. Alternatively, the doors close and lock to separate the bedrooms, or the doors could be reverted to a wall for two, totally unconnected rooms. The back bedroom has a door that can be opened for extra air flow and provides roof access. (You might consider adding decking and a railing for a future roof-deck/balcony!) The tastefully updated upper level bathroom provides good cabinet space and – with under-floor heating - will warm your feet on the coldest of winter nights. **** The lower level is currently set up as an office with custom built-in cabinetry and a mix of Flor Carpet tiles for warmth and Vinyl tiles for practicality. With direct access to a back door, the space is fully functional as a bedroom suite, with a nicely refreshed bathroom that gets a peak of light from the outside. Alternatively – at your option - use the space as an office or rec room! The laundry/utility room and area under the stairs offer plenty of storage space on this level.**** The home is notable for the careful selection of each finishing for functionality, style and quality. The moldings, bath and kitchen fixtures, lighting and more are sure to impress. As for major systems, the HVAC was replaced in 2008 and a Bosch tankless water heater installed in 2021. The home has 200 Amp electrical service with a whole-house surge protector. These and more are detailed in a list of considerable updates (please ask to see it)! **** Parking is easy in your own space directly in front of the house. And alley access in the back allows trash bins outside your walled garden . Check out this wonderful home in person! [Yates Gardens - $1,100,000]

Welcome to 1025 Bernard Street, your cozy retreat in the heart of historic Old Town, Alexandria, VA.

1025 Bernard St

This charming 4-level townhouse is not just a home; it's a haven filled with modern comforts and classic character, waiting to welcome you. Step inside and feel the warmth of this inviting space. With 4 bedrooms and 3.55 baths, there's room for everyone to spread out and relax. The kitchen is a chef's dream come true, with sleek quartz countertops, stylish Grey Maple cabinets, and stainless steel appliances that sparkle in the sunlight. Plus, the 5-plank wood flooring adds a touch of rustic elegance to every meal prep session. Need a zone to unwind or entertain? Head downstairs to the lower level rec room – it's the perfect hangout spot for movie nights or game days. Ready to soak up some sun? Step out onto the expansive deck off the kitchen – it's the ultimate spot for sipping your morning coffee or hosting summer BBQs with friends. And when evening falls, make your way up to the rooftop terrace for breathtaking views of the neighborhood skyline. Parking is a breeze with your 1.5-car garage and tandem parking spot – plenty of space for your car, bikes, and all your outdoor gear. And the best part? You're just a short walk away from local favorites like Rustico, Buzz Bakery, and the scenic Mt. Vernon Trail, where endless adventures await. Come experience the magic of 1025 Bernard Street for yourself. This isn't just a house – it's your new home sweet home, right in the heart of Old Town. **OPEN HOUSE SCHEDULE COMING SOON. [Powhatan At Potomac Yard - $1,050,000]

Sprawling 1,350 sf 1BR+Den, 1-level at Old Town's Premier waterfront condominium: Robinson Landing.

22 Bakers Walk #105

Incredible price for the best of the best in the desirable southeast quadrant, 1/2 block to the river. Location, Luxury and Convenience in this jewel box of a home. Robinson Landing offers amenities galore, including a very popular speaker series featuring impressive, top-notch thought leaders, authors and historians; 24/7 concierge; centralized package and mail delivery management; long-term vacation mail/package management; climate-controlled storage; waterfront, state of the art fitness center; yoga studio; conference/party rooms; dog spa; bike room. Don't delay. Start savoring the true sense of community that is Robinson Landing. Lives like a 1-level townhouse (no stairs) with quiet lobby and elevator to your secure garage parking spot. The versatile den makes a fabulous home office AND may convey with a convenient murphy bed for overnight guests. Seller’s custom upgrades and furnishings (some of which may be available for sale) include a wall of brick replicated from an old Chicago warehouse highlighting expansive windows and sunny exposure; a board and batten accent wall in the primary bedroom; Farrow and Ball paints; motorized shades; shelving in laundry closet; and elegant light fixtures throughout. Gently lived in, every inch of this home is utilized to perfection: closets galore, exquisite dual vanity en-suite with every high-end feature imaginable. Snaidero Italian kitchen cabinets, Bosch and Thermador stainless steel appliances, sparkling quartz countertops, large island with counter seating. You’ll love the sunny southern exposure, easy access to the wonderful walking and biking path along the river, the waterfront restaurants, and array of interesting shops and boutiques along King Street. Enjoy quiet moments on your sunny private balcony, chatting with neighbors as they stroll along Wolfe Street. Don't delay. Motivated seller. NOT located in a flood zone; flood insurance not required; Condominium's master insurance policy maintains flood policy for the building. [Robinson Landing - $1,148,900]

Indulge in luxurious modern living at Towngate North, a new boutique condominium situated in the heart of North Old Town.

635 Slaters Ln #307

Perfectly positioned just off the Mount Vernon Trail and 5 minutes from the action of Old Town, this address offers unparalleled convenience while providing easy access to GW Parkway, metro and National Airport, Crystal City and DC. Step into sophistication of the open floor plans, thoughtfully designed to maximize both comfort and style. Impeccable attention to detail is evident throughout, with quality craftsmanship and elegant timeless finishes. Enjoy expansive windows and 7" wide plank flooring. The spacious kitchen equipped ensures effortless living and entertaining. Experience coming home to an array of desirable amenities from the convenience of a dedicated concierge to a fully equipped fitness studio complete with a yoga room. With your own reserved parking space (#50), you will never have to hunt for parking again. Socialize and unwind in the community clubroom or take advantage of furnished conference space for work or gatherings. Additional amenities include a bike storage and repair room, a dog spa room for your furry friends, and an extraordinary rooftop terrace boasting panoramic views of the iconic DC skyline and the picturesque Potomac River. [Old Town North - $550,000]

Beautiful townhome in Old Town Alexandria's sought-after waterfront community, Ford's Landing!! Amazing location: Your front door is only 100 yards from the Potomac River & only 20 yards from Old Town bike / walking trails! This spacious Lee model townhouse boasts rich details, a beautiful updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a serene deck off of the kitchen, and wonderful built-ins and customizations throughout! -1 car garage, with tandem parking.

31 Alexander St

Only minutes from everything: Potomac River, walking / biking paths, historic Old Town Alexandria & Mt. Vernon, Washington DC, & all major roadways. This amazing home epitomizes luxury right in the heart of Old Town Alexandria's Southeast quadrant. Welcome home to the perfect blend of elegance and convenience in this historic district waterfront community! [Fords Landing - $1,250,000]

The epitome of modern urban living with all the southern charm and warmth of a Charleston style home.

1211 Wilkes St

With almost 2800 sf of updated living space, this home is an entertainer's dream combined with intimate cozy spaces for every day living. Walk through the courtyard door and step into the welcoming slate patio perfect for hosting neighbors for a happy hour celebration. Impressive columns form the entry to the formal living room that overlooks the sunny front courtyard. An open bright living space with sparkling hardwood floors combined with 9 foot ceilings accented by crown moldings creates an air of comfort and design sophistication. The gracious dining room can accommodate large dinner parties with access to both the living room and the family room. The fireplace in the family room with surrounding built-in cabinets for display and storage as well as a bay window overlooking the front courtyard is the perfect place to settle in for a fun movie night or snuggle up and read your favorite book. Step through to the gourmet kitchen with every amenity a chef could dream of - large island with seating, custom cabinets with lighted upper display, expansive quartz counters, stainless steel appliances including a double wall oven and wine refrigerator, and a breakfast nook (banquet available to convey) with views through the glass door to another private patio. Just down the hall is a convenient laundry with built-in shelves and a huge walk-in pantry with custom shelving. Upstairs open the French doors into the primary suite - an incredible escape from the city! Soaring cathedral ceilings, room to accommodate a king bed and multiple seating areas including a private balcony with Trex deck that overlooks the courtyard below. This exceptional primary suite includes a spa bath that rivals a chic boutique hotel with double vanities, separate water closet, an oversized custom tile shower, and then two HUGE walk-in closets both with custom Elfa organization. The second bedroom also has soaring cathedral ceilings, new luxury plank vinyl floors, multiple large closets with organizers and a French door that opens to city views. The third bedroom is the perfect home office or exercise space - whatever compliments your lifestyle. The updated shared hall bath has a dual quartz vanity and a separate toilet/shower room great for accommodating guests. A two car rear entry garage with custom shelving and epoxy flooring provides needed extra storage space. Old Town Village is the ideal city community with all the suburban amenities you could want - a saltwater pool, clubhouse with meeting space, library and gym, and community events. Just four blocks from King Street's eclectic shops and acclaimed restaurants, only a quick walk to Metro and Whole Foods, and a fun stroll to active nightlife along the riverfront - everything to do and see is just outside your front door! Ready to move in and start enjoying your Old Town life? This is the one for you! [Old Town Village - $1,849,000]

Welcome to Historic Old Town Alexandria.

680 S Columbus St

Enjoy the space and charm of this updated townhome with lots of comfort. All brick patio with access to common area and 2nd garage space. Plenty of parking space on the street. Hop on GW Pkwy and head south to GW's home, park lands, boat launches, trails and so many more. Head North and you access Washington National Airport, District of Columbia with more water front amenities. Enjoy shows at Kennedy center or a stroll to see all the monuments as well as the King Street activities from seasonal parades to fireworks. These are all minutes to downtown, restaurants, parks, grocery, entertainment and so much more. You will be amazed, but there is more! The 3 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath townhouse provides hardwood floors, crown molding, plantation shutters, and plenty of updates. The ground level features a tiled foyer with coat closet, first floor powder room, a bright family room with built-in shelves and wet bar, and a wood burning fireplace. On the main level, two sets of French doors offer an easy access to the private fenced back courtyard, absolute comfort for relaxing, and entertaining. The second floor of the home features a spacious kitchen, complete with stainless steel appliances including a wine refrigerator and induction cooktop with a double oven. A large center island with soapstone counters adjacent to a bright dining area as well as living room with a wood-burning fireplace, built in display and storage space, and two French doors with Juliet balconies overlooking the private back patio. The third floor is home to the primary suite and renovated en-suite bathroom with updated fixtures, a walk-in shower with a rain shower head, HEATED marble basket-weave tile floor, and a marble-topped vanity. The second bedroom with a large walk-in closet is also located on this level and an updated full bathroom with fixtures, a soaking tub/shower combination, Carrera marble vanity and heated marble mosaic floor tile. Updated stacked washer and dryer and linen closet are also located on 3rd level. The top level features a large third bedroom with hardwood floors, a reading nook, the home's third full bathroom with shower and tub combination, and ample storage space. Monthly condo dues for the Washington Square community include exterior maintenance (including the roof), water, trash and snow removal, common area landscaping, common area maintenance including the parking garage and elevator, and more. Shopping - Whole Foods, Harris Teeter, Trader Joe's, Balducci's, Starbucks, and year round farmers' markets nearby. Take a tour for yourself and make the move. [Washington Square - $1,049,000]


  Will Nesbitt   About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo Alexandria and Nesbitt Realty. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.

Will Nesbitt

View posts by Will Nesbitt
Will is the principal broker of Nesbitt Realty and Condo Alexandria. He is licensed in anywhere in the Commonwealth of Virginia, but focuses on those communities found in and around Alexandria, Arlington, Mount Vernon and Springfield/Franconia. Will has been involved in real estate management, sales and investment for more than twenty years. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army. While in the army, he studied Russian at Monterey's Defense Language Institute. He is also a "veteran of the dotcom wars" and built most of the sites associated with NesbittRealty.com Will currently resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Old Town, overlooking New Alexandria. He is a former president of the Mount Vernon Youth Athletic Association and founded the Alexandria Fun with Friends Group. Will is the author of BattlestorM, a tabletop fantasy game, which was published by Ral Partha Publishing in the late '90's, and Arthur's Realm, a boardgame available at the Gamecrafter.