Private History of Old Town Alexandria Walking Tour

Discover the fascinating private history of Old Town Alexandria on this captivating 90-minute walking tour. Led by knowledgeable guides, visitors will uncover the city’s founding and pivotal role during the Civil War, exploring historic landmarks like the Carlyle House and Christ Church. The tour provides an immersive experience, delving into the struggles of doctors and nurses caring for wounded soldiers, as well as the momentous site where George Washington was first addressed as president. With a focus on accessibility and small group sizes, this tour offers an engaging opportunity to explore Alexandria’s rich past. What secrets from the city’s history are waiting to be uncovered?

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Walking Tours In Virginia.

Key Points

• Guided walking tour of historic Old Town Alexandria, focusing on the city’s founding and its pivotal role during the Civil War.
• Highlights key landmarks like Carlyle House, Christ Church, Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Shop, and the Torpedo Factory Art Center.
• Explores the struggles of doctors and nurses caring for wounded soldiers, as inspired by the PBS series ‘Mercy Street’.
• Offers a personalized and interactive experience with a small group size and a knowledgeable guide.
• Provides wheelchair-friendly access and is conveniently located near public transportation for inclusive exploration.

Tour Overview

The Private History of Old Town Alexandria Walking Tour offers participants a 90-minute exploration of the historic landmarks and neighborhoods that shaped the city’s founding and Civil War history.

This private walking tour allows visitors to discover the stories and facts behind Alexandria’s role during the conflict, from the struggles of doctors and nurses caring for wounded soldiers to the site where George Washington was first addressed as president.

Led by a professional, informative, and friendly guide, the tour takes guests through the charming streets, highlighting key attractions like the Carlyle House, Christ Church, and the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

With a small group size, the tour provides a personalized experience for each participant.

Key Highlights

Among the key highlights of the Private History of Old Town Alexandria Walking Tour are the Carlyle House historic mansion and gardens, where visitors can learn about the city’s founding father, John Carlyle.

Another stop is Christ Church, where George Washington once worshipped.

The tour also includes the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Shop museum, which offers a glimpse into the city’s pharmaceutical history.

The Torpedo Factory Art Center, a former munitions plant transformed into an art hub, is another must-see.

Lastly, the Athenaeum, a Greek Revival-style building, showcases the city’s cultural heritage.

These diverse landmarks provide an immersive experience, allowing participants to uncover the rich history and artistic vibrancy of Old Town Alexandria.

Historical Content

Inspired by the PBS series ‘Mercy Street’, the Private History of Old Town Alexandria Walking Tour provides an in-depth look at the city’s role during the Civil War.

Participants will learn about the struggles of doctors and nurses who cared for wounded soldiers, and discover how the community grappled with the realities of war.

The tour also explores the life of the city’s founding father, John Carlyle, and visits the site where George Washington was first addressed as president.

Tour Details

Visitors can expect a small group size that ensures personal service from the professional, informative, and friendly guide leading the walking tour.

Necessary entrance fees are included, and participants have the choice of a morning or afternoon departure, with the meeting point at the Alexandria Visitors Center Back Porch.

The tour is accessible to wheelchair users and those with strollers, and service animals are allowed. The walking surfaces are wheelchair-friendly, and the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.

Whether visitors are history buffs or simply looking to explore the charming city, this private walking tour offers a unique and engaging way to uncover the rich past of Old Town Alexandria.

Accessibility

The tour is accessible to wheelchair users and those with strollers, and service animals are allowed. The walking surfaces are wheelchair-friendly, and the tour is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy for visitors of all abilities to participate.

This ensures that the history and culture of Old Town Alexandria can be experienced by everyone, regardless of their mobility. The tour’s commitment to accessibility reflects the city’s inclusive and welcoming spirit, allowing all visitors to fully enjoy the rich tapestry of Alexandria’s past.

Whether you’re exploring the historic landmarks or discovering the city’s role in the Civil War, this tour provides an accessible and engaging way to connect with the timeless charm of Old Town Alexandria.

Meeting Point

The tour meets at the Alexandria Visitors Center Back Porch, providing a convenient starting point for participants to begin their exploration of Old Town Alexandria.

This central location ensures easy access to the historic district, allowing the group to efficiently transition from the meeting point into the walking tour.

The Visitors Center serves as an informative hub, offering maps, brochures, and staff on hand to provide any necessary guidance before the tour commences.

By gathering at this well-known landmark, the guide can quickly gather the group and commence the journey through the charming streets and landmarks of Old Town.

The meeting point’s accessibility and proximity to the tour route streamlines the start of the experience for all participants.

Small Group Size

Intimate group sizes ensure a personalized and interactive experience for participants on the Private History of Old Town Alexandria Walking Tour. The small group size allows for more focused attention from the knowledgeable guide, fostering opportunities for questions and deeper discussions. This format creates a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, enabling guests to fully enjoy the history and stories of Old Town Alexandria.

Group Size	Personalized Experience	Focused Attention	Interactive Atmosphere
Small	✓	✓	✓
Medium	◯	◯	◯
Large	✕	✕	✕

Guided Experience

A knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide leads participants on the Private History of Old Town Alexandria Walking Tour, bringing the city’s rich past to life through captivating narratives and insightful commentary.

Engaging visitors with stories of the city’s founding, the guide highlights the significance of landmarks like the Carlyle House, Christ Church, and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Shop.

Drawing inspiration from the PBS series ‘Mercy Street,’ the guide delves into Alexandria’s crucial role during the Civil War, sharing the struggles of doctors and nurses caring for wounded soldiers.

Fostering a personalized experience, the guide encourages questions and provides valuable context, ensuring participants leave with a deeper appreciation for the history and character of Old Town Alexandria.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the Old Town Alexandria walking tour. Guests are encouraged to take photos of the historic landmarks and neighborhoods to capture their experience. However, visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or rules mentioned by the tour guide.

Can We Purchase Snacks or Drinks During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase snacks and drinks during the tour. The tour includes stops at local shops and cafes where participants can purchase refreshments to enjoy during the walking tour of historic Old Town Alexandria.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks Planned Along the Route?

The tour includes planned restroom breaks at historical sites along the route. Guests will have opportunities to use the facilities during the 90-minute walking tour of Old Town Alexandria.

Can We Interact With the Tour Guide and Ask Questions?

Yes, participants can interact with the tour guide and ask questions throughout the walking tour. The small group size allows for personal attention and the opportunity to learn more about the city’s history and landmarks.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children Under 8 Years Old?

The tour is generally suitable for young children under 8, as it includes wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and the guide provides engaging historical information. However, the 90-minute duration may be challenging for some younger participants.

Recap

The Private History of Old Town Alexandria Walking Tour offers visitors an immersive and engaging experience to discover the city’s rich past.

Highlighting key landmarks and uncovering fascinating historical stories, the tour provides an accessible and informative way to explore Alexandria’s founding and pivotal role during the Civil War.

With a small-group setting and knowledgeable guide, this 90-minute walking tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an intimate and enlightening glimpse into the city’s captivating history.