Stepping into the charming streets of Old Town Alexandria, visitors embark on a captivating journey that blends the region’s rich history with its renowned culinary delights. This 3-hour walking tour invites guests to savor iconic southern dishes while uncovering the captivating past that shaped this vibrant city. From the pivotal role it played in the Revolutionary War to its significance in the Civil Rights Movement, Alexandria’s story unfolds through the guidance of knowledgeable local guides. As participants indulge in flavorful specialties like shrimp and grits, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s enduring legacy – a tapestry of past and present that begs to be explored further.
Key Points
- Immersive 3-hour guided walking tour of historic Old Town Alexandria, showcasing the city’s Revolutionary War heritage and Civil Rights Movement legacy.
- Savor regional Southern comfort foods and local seafood specialties at locally-owned restaurants.
- Explore well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture, public art, and historic sites like Christ Church and Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum.
- Small group size of up to 8 participants, with free cancellation and pay later options available.
- Moderate fitness level required due to the 1.5-mile walking distance, with vegetarian options and preparation for weather conditions recommended.
Tour Overview and Pricing
Offering visitors an immersive experience in the historic district of Old Town Alexandria, the "Southern Comfort Food & History Tour" provides a guided walking exploration.
Priced at €113.46 per person, the 3-hour tour accommodates a small group of up to 8 participants, led in English. Guests can take advantage of the tour’s free cancellation policy, which allows for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
Plus, the tour offers a reserve now, pay later option, enabling participants to secure their spot without upfront payment.
The total walking distance is approximately 1.5 miles, with the tour including multiple food tastings and providing a fulfilling lunch experience.
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Tour Experience
Visitors exploring the historic district of Old Town Alexandria can experience an immersive food and history tour. The guided walking tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s past, stopping at locally-owned restaurants to savor regional specialties.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into Alexandria’s pivotal role in the Revolutionary War and Civil Rights Movement. The total walking distance covers approximately 1.5 miles, providing a fulfilling culinary and historical experience.
Guests can expect a variety of food tastings that create a satisfying lunch. Whether interested in Southern comfort foods or captivating local stories, the Old Town Alexandria tour offers a unique and memorable opportunity.
Itinerary and Meeting Point
The tour begins at a local restaurant in Old Town Alexandria, where participants should arrive 5 minutes early.
The starting location is 119 S Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314, and the tour ends at 726 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314.
The itinerary may change, but highlights usually include waterfront views, public art, and historic architecture.
Participants can expect to cover approximately 1.5 miles during the 3-hour walking tour.
While the specific restaurants may vary, the tour provides an opportunity to taste regional foods from locally-owned establishments, offering a fulfilling lunch experience.
Important Information
Participants are recommended to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for the tour.
The tour operates rain or shine, so being prepared for the elements is crucial.
Vegetarian food options are available, but participants should inform the local partner of any dietary requirements in advance to ensure their needs are accommodated.
The total walking distance for the tour is approximately 1.5 miles, so a moderate level of fitness is suggested.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
According to the article, the Old Town Alexandria tour has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 7 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and delicious food. However, some customers reported communication issues regarding the starting location directions.
| Feedback | Positive | Negative | Neutral |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highlights | Knowledgeable guides, Delicious food | Communication issues with starting location | – |
| Rating | 4.6 out of 5 | – | – |
| Example Review | "Jen’s knowledge of Alexandria’s history was impressive, and the food was delicious." | – | – |
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Exploring Historic Old Town
Exploring the historic streets of Old Town Alexandria offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s storied past.
This guided walking tour takes participants on a journey through time, showcasing the area’s Revolutionary War heritage and its role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Along the way, guests will marvel at the well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture, including stately townhouses and charming brick buildings.
The tour also highlights the city’s thriving arts scene, with opportunities to admire public murals and sculptures.
Savoring Regional Delicacies
As visitors meander down the historic streets of Old Town Alexandria, they are invited to savor a tantalizing array of regional delicacies. From hearty Southern comfort foods to local seafood specialties, the guided food tour showcases the culinary diversity of this charming city. Theres some good mouth-watering dishes like:
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp and Grits | Creamy stone-ground grits topped with sautéed shrimp and Andouille sausage | $12 |
| Fried Green Tomatoes | Crispy breaded green tomatoes served with a zesty remoulade sauce | $8 |
| Blue Crab Cakes | Jumbo lump crabmeat lightly breaded and pan-seared | $16 |
| Sweet Potato Pie | Buttery, cinnamon-spiced sweet potato custard in a flaky pastry crust | $5 |
The guide’s expert commentary brings these regional specialties to life, enriching the culinary experience for tour participants.
Discovering Alexandria’s History
Old Town Alexandria’s streets are steeped in a rich and storied past. As you explore the neighborhood, your guide will share captivating tales of the city’s role in the Revolutionary War and Civil Rights Movement.
You’ll discover:
- The historic Christ Church, where George Washington and Robert E. Lee once worshipped.
- The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, a preserved 18th-century pharmacy brimming with history.
- The Freedom House Museum, which chronicles the city’s complex history of slavery and emancipation.
Through these immersive experiences, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Alexandria’s pivotal place in American history, from its colonial roots to its ongoing legacy as a center of culture and activism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s policy is to restrict participation to paying human guests only, in order to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour appears to be wheelchair accessible. The tour provider notes that they accommodate dietary requirements, so it’s likely they can also accommodate wheelchair users. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator directly to confirm accessibility details.
Are Gratuities Included in the Tour Price?
Gratuities are not included in the tour price. Participants are expected to tip the guide at their own discretion based on their satisfaction with the tour experience and quality of service provided.
Can I Purchase Additional Food Items During the Tour?
Participants can purchase additional food items during the tour, but these would be at their own expense. The tour price covers the multiple food tastings included as part of the overall experience.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?
The tour duration is fixed at 3 hours and cannot be extended. However, participants can explore Old Town Alexandria further on their own after the tour concludes. The local partner is unable to accommodate requests to extend the tour time.
Recap
The "Old Town Alexandria: Southern Comfort Food & History Tour" delivers an immersive experience that seamlessly blends the captivating history of this charming city with the tantalizing flavors of its regional cuisine. Guests embark on a delightful journey, savoring iconic dishes while uncovering Alexandria’s significant role in pivotal events, all amidst the stunning architecture of the historic district. This tour offers a truly memorable way to explore the rich cultural tapestry of Old Town Alexandria.
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