Old Town Alexandria in a Day with Round Trip Ferry Cruise

Discover Alexandria’s Old Town on a guided tour with round-trip boat tickets from D.C., iconic stops like Gadsby’s Tavern, a King Street Trolley ride, and time to explore at your own pace.

• Relax on a round-trip Potomac River cruise from D.C.
• Enjoy a guided tour of Alexandria’s Old Town landmarks.
• Go inside historic Gadsby’s Tavern and Carlyle House.
• Visit Christ Church Alexandria, where Washington prayed.
• Explore King Street’s shops and cafes, and ride the trolley.

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.

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. Upon arrival, your knowledgeable guide will lead you through some of the town's most iconic locations tied to the early days of American history. 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. After an introductory stroll, stop at a local bakery for a delicious cupcake that's included in the price of your tour. This bakery is a local favorite known for its creative flavors. 

Then you'll hop aboard the charming King Street Trolley for a glimpse of Old Town’s most vibrant street, lined with shops and colonial architecture. Once you disembark, you'll visit Christ Church Alexandria, where Washington worshiped, and see sites like the Hollensbury Spite House and Flounder Houses that reflect the quirky, historic charm of Alexandria.

 Next, dive into history with a visit to 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. Your guide will then take you to the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary, a unique 18th-century pharmacy that supplied remedies to historic household names like Martha Washington.

 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. When you’re ready, return to the dock to enjoy a peaceful cruise back to D.C., soaking in the scenic views along the Potomac River.

 This tour offers a seamless way to explore one of America’s best-preserved colonial towns, all while learning about the figures and stories that defined an era.

Before you travel, please read the "Know Before You Go" section for essential information, requirements, and possible disruptions regarding your tour.

Before you travel, please read the "Know Before You Go" section for essential information, requirements, and possible disruptions regarding your tour.