Summertime in Alexandria is loads of fun. Tourists descend on our fair city, but we're glad to have them as our guests.
At the Torpedo Factory and Potomac in Old Town
One of the places that you have to visit when you're in town is also a favorite spot of residents: the Alexandria waterfront. The docks behind the Torpedo Factory Art Center are always bustling with activity. Every few paces you'll find a street musician, street magician and other entertainer. There are numerous restaurants here: most of them quite nice.
Admiral Tilp offers river tours in Alexandria VA
If you're looking for a little fun on the water, you might want to take a cruse on the Admiral Tilp. The Admiral Tilp is docked here at the end of King Street and Union Street. The Admiral Tilp departs on the hour, so if you miss her, she'll be back. The Admiral Tilp offers a narrated tour under the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, past National Harbor and down to Jones Point. The on-board guide provides a historical and contemporary context to what you will witness on board.
For more information or to set up an appointment call Nesbitt Realty at (703)765-0300.
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.
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.
The glass harp as played by Jamie Turner is an old town treat one simply must hear in person to appreciate.
Harpist
This miss not only strummed the harp to perfection but also sang beautifully.
At the waterfront behind the Torpedo Factory there are often a few soloists serving up music for passers-by.
I heard some fine picking and strumming from this pair.
Properties in Old Town Alexandria
FANTASTIC TOTAL RENOVATION! GREAT PRICE REDUCTION!
Spring is here! The Camelias are blooming! Summer fun is just around the corner! It's time to live your urban dream!
Located on one of the most desirable streets in the SE Quadrant of Old Town, next to parks & restaurants, this fantastic end-unit, all brick townhouse, with the new dormered 4th floor addition (4th Bedroom or Office/Study) with views of National Harbor & the Potomac River, will absolutely WOW you!
Owners/Agent have done a fantastic, tasteful job with the total renovation, including adding much coveted storage & high-end finishes.
Nothing is left to imagine! Totally Ready for You!
The 3,000 + square feet of new or newly-renovated space invites you to live a low maintenance life where everything is 21 Century while still offering you the Old Town, Alexandria historic stylings and amenities.
In this beautiful 4 story Federal end-unit townhouse, with private fenced garden patio, you will enjoy loads of newly-built storage in the primary bedroom & 4th floor. The primary bedroom is now flanked with two rows of newly built closets (all with California Closet-designed systems & lighting), as well as an expanded, gorgeous, ensuite bathroom which includes a deep jetted tub, fabulous, tasteful ceramic tile, double vanity & a huge linen closet.
The second light-filled bedroom on Upper Level 1 is another good-sized bedroom with its own ensuite bathroom, which includes a lovely expanded shower.
Additionally, the Newly-Built & Permitted 4th floor Bedroom/Office/Studio is spacious & bright. With it's own walk-in closet, you could also convert half for other purposes. The new addition allows for many uses and has new neutral carpet for warmth & comfort. The huge walk in storage space has been finished with luxury vinyl flooring. Additionally, there is a newly constructed staircase that has been tailored to match the lower level staircases!
As you enter the foyer, you will find a terrific flow through to the living room with its awesome chandeliers and new gas fireplace that will welcome you home. (The floorplan was totally reworked for two entrances to the living room - one from the new kitchen & one from the hall.)
The redesigned kitchen/dining room alone will WIN you over with beautiful sconces & light fixtures as well as your New Dream Kitchen, including the beautiful Medallion solid wood cabinets, honed granite countertops, brass pot filler, Fisher & Paykel counter-depth refrigerator/freezer, stainless dishwasher, microwave, garbage disposal and the most gorgeous ILVY Majestic black & brass gas 5 burner range.
The first floor continues to wrap the living room, kitchen and foyer for a great flow and a darling powder room with period wallpaper off the main hall. Hardwood floors continue seamlessly throughout.
The lower level has an additional bedroom, 2 windows and an ensuite bath/shower, which, too is new, bright and neutral.
The renovation also included base audio visual wiring for you to add security and audio components both inside and out.
Additionally, a 50 yr architectural shingle roof was installed with all new gutters/downspouts, a new HVAC system, new Mini-Split HVAC in 4th floor bedroom/office/studio and new Marvin double hung, energy efficient windows.
You must see this fabulous place to appreciate every detail ! And all of this without an HOA! (Tax record square footage is prior to 4th floor addition and does not reflect new additional space.) (Detailed floor plans available upon request.
Patio furniture & grill DO NOT convey. [Pommander - $2,139,000]
Welcome to Parker-Gray Historic District, offering perfect placement at the heart of historic Alexandria.
Compelling curb appeal and forty feet of graceful gardens surround classic brick colonial. Large rear yard a green retreat for all ages (and pups too!), plus private patio and parking driveway. Luxuriant light streams through 28 windows across all four sides, highlighting gleaming hardwood floors. Fully appointed gourmet kitchen with massive quartz prep island open to dining room or steps to brand-new BONUS room - sunny home office, fitness or yoga studio, separate front "mud-room" entrance - endless flexibility! Upstairs 3 BRs, spa-like bath, ample closet space, and large storage attic. Lower level guest room den with full bath completes the package.
Lovely blend of Old Town streetscape, historic home, and modern make-over - HURRY to see it in person!
Call us for a private tour. [Parker Gray Historic District - $1,250,000]
Assumable VA Loan for Qualified Buyers! OFFER DEADLINE has been set for Tuesday, April 23rd at NOON.
Welcome to this exquisite 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath row home nestled in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, where historic charm meets modern luxury. This meticulously updated residence boasts designer touches and updates throughout, LED recessed lighting, and a nice outdoor space with brick patio, shed and green space. Fully remodeled gourmet kitchen (2019) that will delight any culinary enthusiast, complete with brick flooring, Viking refrigerator, Thermador stove, subway tile backsplash, 110 bottle wine refrigerator and quartz peninsula that opens to large dining area with dental crown and chair molding featuring stacked stone accent wall. There is also a door to fenced in backyard, complete with a newly bricked patio with plenty of space of seating and lush grass yard. The living room features distressed wood flooring, wood burning fireplace with option to convert to gas and features a classic mantle, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ascend to the upper level, where two generously sized bedrooms await, flooded with natural light that streams through ample windows and customized closets. A full bath and laundry complete this level. The primary suite is a tranquil retreat on the 3rd level, featuring a spacious custom walk-in closet, fireplace with stacked stone surround and spa like bath with dual sinks and spacious shower. Conveniently located blocks from King Street, this home boasts a high walk score, providing easy access to the vibrant shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that Old Town Alexandria is renowned for. Plus, with two designated parking spots included, parking woes become a thing of the past—a highly sought-after amenity in this bustling neighborhood. Don't miss your chance to experience the best of historic charm and contemporary luxury in this stunning Old Town Alexandria residence. New Roof 2021, Kitchen Appliances 2019, HVAC 2019, Hot Water Heater 2018. Newly redone brick patio, sod, fence and retaining wall. Convenient to DC, Amazon HQ2! Schedule your showing today, as homes of this caliber are in high demand! [Goldfarbs - $1,185,000]
Now is your chance to live in Alexandria’s up and coming Arts District! Amazing location in Old Town North! This sunny second floor unit has a balcony with a lovely view! ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED in condo fee.
Off Street Parking, Secure building with M-F Front desk. Don't miss the expansive rooftop deck overlooking Potomac River with monument views! Outstanding location only 2 blocks to the river with parks, running & biking trails. Surrounded by top restaurants, shops, Harris Teeter & Trader Joes. Walking distance to Braddock Metro. Close to Nat’l Airport & Amazon HQ2! GREAT FOR INVESTORS! Pets welcome [Old Town North - $220,000]
Luxurious Rooftop Penthouse in Old Town Alexandria with enormous PRIVATE Terrace perfect for grilling and entertaining and includes a spectacular, unobstructed view of the Masonic Temple.
Exceptional location: 10-minute walk from TWO different Metro Stations and only two blocks from King Street.
Features include a 36-ft long wall of oversized windows that bathe the open floor plan in natural light; a spacious, gourmet kitchen with stately soapstone countertops, high-end bamboo cabinetry with dovetail joinery, gas cooktop, built-in microwave, convection and standard ovens; extremely rare, reclaimed old-growth heart pine floors throughout; three sets of glass doors that provide access to the private terrace; spacious bathroom with a glistening recycled glass shower and brand new vanity/countertop/faucet; contemporary exposed ductwork; newly installed adjustable LED recessed lighting; spacious mechanical room w/ LG washer & dryer (new in 2021), energy-efficient Carrier HVAC (new in 2019), plus extra room for storage; brand new, rekeyable electronic entry door lockset; a one-year Home Warranty; and a brand new 55" LG ThinQ Smart TV mounted above the gas fireplace, which can be operated by remote control. The list goes on....
The Penthouse was professionally painted in January 2024 to include all walls, ceilings, doors, trim, ductwork and closets.
The eight-unit Cromley Lofts building (built in 1910/renovated in 2007) was Virginia's very first LEED Gold-Certified building. Its sustainable features, such as the vegetated roof, energy-efficient Low-E windows/doors and more help to keep the energy bills low (gas bill averages $15 per month and electricity approximately $63.) Worthy of noting is that the building is zoned for Commercial/Residential mixed use (medium).-CRMU/M, which provides even more value and options.
Notes: A grill IS allowed on the private terrace. Outdoor furniture, a full set of West Elm curtains and both wall-mounted TVs convey if the Buyer wishes to have them. [Old Town Alexandria - $680,000]
MUST SEE 1BR+Multi-Functional Den at a SMASHING NEW PRICE in Old Town's premier waterfront condominium: Robinson Landing.
Rare opportunity to live on one-level 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 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. AND Robinson Landing boasts a very popular speaker series featuring impressive, top-notch thought leaders, authors and historians. Don't delay. Start savoring the true sense of community that is Robinson Landing.
This sprawling, 1,350 square foot home lives like a 1-level townhouse (no stairs), and a convenient elevator whisks you 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 - $1,149,000]
Welcome home to this fully remodeled Home (2019-2020).
Upgrades include all new HVAC, Roof , New Kitchen, Baths, Flooring , EVERYTHING. Upstairs you'll find 2 bedrooms and 1 Beautifully done Bath. A second bath can be added in the extra bedroom. The basement has a separate living area, bar, washer/dryer and a 3rd Bedroom with ensuite full bath. It is gorgeous inside.
The Main level has hardwoods, a fireplace, half bath, sunroom, dining room, Family room and Kitchen. Walk into the open floor plan. Lots of natural light
The backyard is an oasis!!! There is a private parking spot in the rear of the home and plenty of street parking out front and on the side....Great Corner lot!!
SELLER WILL PUT THE WALL BACK BETWEEN THEN PRIMARY AND SECOND BEDROOM BEFORE CLOSING.******
Just a short walk to all the shops, restaurants and waterfront that Old Town has to offer.
You won't be disappointed! [Parker Gray - $1,595,000]
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.
Fortune Teller in Old Town
I took a walk on waterfront in Old Town Alexandria VA last night. The temperature was absolutely perfect as was the humidity. There were crowds, but it wasn't too much. I saw folks rushing to the Nina Dandy and other boats for an evening of cruising. There were several street musicians playing King St. At the pass-thru under the Torpedo Factory, a gentleman was playing the saxophone. And down along the water a street magician was showing his stuff. The balloon men were there creating animals and entertaining the children. A fortune teller was portending the future. A parrot rescue group had a flock of parrots and similar birds which were available for photos.
But then a light misting rain started to fall and the crowds scattered. At first they hid in the Food Court and on the trolley. The musicians were the first to pack, and they packed quickly to ensure their instruments weren't damaged. The mule drawn carriage pulled off and soon the streets were quiet. We walked around a bit, enjoying the peace and quiet. And then we were gone as well.
Street magic at the water front in Old Town Alexandria VA
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.
The Ford Nature Center is located in West End Alexandria not far from the intersection of Beauregard St. and Sanger Ave. The Nature Center backs to Holmes Run behind William Ramsay Elementary School. The Nature Center is sited on Dora Kelley Nature Park, a 50-acre wildlife sanctuary with a one-mile long nature trail that meanders along streams, wooded hills, and freshwater marshland.
Staff naturalists at the Nature Center welcome visitors and "explorers" interested in Alexandria natural history. For groups of 8 or more, make reservations and a staff naturalist will take you on a guided tour of the Nature Park. you can see live animals up close and learn about the cultural and natural history of Dora Kelley Nature Park. For more information, or to make program reservations, please call the Nature Center at 703.746.5559.
The Nature Center houses the following attractions and exhibits:
Live turtles, snakes, toads and salamanders
Aquarium with native fish species from Holmes Run
Exhibit on Alexandria’s birds of prey
Mary Anne Warner’s beautiful 16’ x 7’ oil mural, “Wildlife of the Dora Kelley Nature Park”
Mounted black bear, red fox, turkey and bobcat
Interpretive exhibits on local geology, prehistory, and history
Small reference library with children's section
Games and activity stations for children
Greenhouse with tropical rainforest plants
The activity room of Ford Nature Center is available for use and rental by community groups and organizations.
Volunteering at the Nature Center
A variety of volunteer opportunities are available through the Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center for ages 16 and above. Positions include front desk attendant, park conservation aide, and park watch assistant. Volunteer opportunities for individuals or groups in outdoor conservation and trail maintenance are also available from 9am-12pm on the following Saturdays: April 12, May 17, June 14, July 26, and August 23. For more information, please call the Nature Center at 703.746.5559.
Homes for Sale near the Nature Center
No active listings match your search. Contact us to get a free no obligation list of similar properties or to be notified when properties become available with your criteria.
I recently started volunteering as a coach for Fort Hunt Youth Basketball and I believe volunteering has some great benefits.
Friendship- When people get together, relationships are formed. After coaching a few practices, it's not uncommon for volunteers to exchange phone numbers or social media information. By giving just a small amount of time, lifetime bonds may be established.
Community- Building with your community gives a sense of pride. Whether you are volunteering at your local recreation center or at your local food kitchen, this will save money. Saving money saves resources and funds can now go toward other local improvements.
Personal Growth- Experiencing new things and environments will lead to personal growth. Skills you may not have known you had will become more apparent.
Health- Volunteering will naturally make you a more active person. Research has found that volunteering has amazing health benefits. While thinking of others, one can battle depression and social confinement.
Alexandria Avenue bridges the Mount Vernon Trail
Courtesy: Stay out of the way of others, including pedestrians and motor vehicles. When coming to a passage way with a vehicle stopped or about to stop and you are approaching, if you not going to stop, go to the left of the vehicle and pass behind it so that you do not interfere with their momentum, otherwise stop and wait for them to pass.
Round-trip: Consider where you begin, in regards to where your terminal point is. For example, a trip from Old Town by bike can lead to various routes, such as Eisenhower Valley, Del Ray, Crystal City, Fairfax County' Alexandria, Mount Vernon, etc.
Resources: Think of what you will bring with you on the way and what you might pick up while on the go. For example, a bike rack can be a luxury; storing photography accessories, snacks, water, maps, handheld electronics, etc. It can be economical to ride to a local business and back to acquire much needed resources such as home goods, hobby essentials, repair equipment, missing errand inventory.
Soak it up: While out it is amazing to witness the weather upon the land, the change and consistency in history of a region, to feel the wind, to see people in action, to fly down a hill, and so on.
Wing it: Weather nice? Mount the bike and head in a direction you've been before, or possibly travel to a region you have thought about before. Have some money on you and go to a business you like, pick up some fresh groceries, visit a friends dwelling, make it to a monument, etc.
Plan: Come up with an idea for a round-trip bicycle adventure. A plan to go visit the nightlife spot you enjoy, during the day, can be refreshing. Ride to the end of the 5 mile point on the map, and back.
No active listings match your search. Contact us to get a free no obligation list of similar properties or to be notified when properties become available with your criteria.
Arlington County is organized into unincorporated "urban villages". Our website highlights several of these villages and other areas in Arlington County.
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.
The glass harp as played by Jamie Turner is an old town treat one simply must hear in person to appreciate.
At the waterfront behind the 
I heard some fine picking and strumming from this pair.
