Alexandria Community Information

Alexandria is one of the most unique towns in all of America.  Founded in 1749 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s served as home to American legends such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Robert E. Lee.  Today, Alexandria receives international recognition for its architecture, award-winning restaurants, and eclectic shopping.

At the heart of Alexandria is Old Town.  Established in 1946, this district is famous for its concentration of historic buildings that provide a unique setting for a modern, urban lifestyle.  Located along the Potomac River, Old Town is one of the more dog-friendly regions in Northern Virginia and has one of the highest rates per capita of dog owners in the country.

Alexandria living provides easy access to both DC and the Virginia suburbs.  Five Metrorail stations can eliminate the need to own a vehicle for those commuting into DC.  In addition, Alexandria’s Old Town Trolley runs down King Street through the backbone of Old Town.  Visitors and residents alike take advantage of this free trolley service that runs between the King Street Metrorail station and the Potomac River waterfront.

Alexandria homes embody 18th and 19th century architecture as new construction in the area often seeks to emulate these older designs. Homes possess a wide range of prices depending on size and location.  Many areas outside of Old Town offer great options for first time home buyers, while neighborhoods such as Del Rey have some of the most sought after homes in Northern Virginia.

Walking tours are a great way to experience Alexandria and gain an insider’s perspective into its history.  Step off the Metrorail at the King Street station and start at the George Washington National Masonic Memorial to get a bird’s eye view of the region.  From there, work your way down King Street towards the Waterfront and enjoy the mix of shops and museums along its path.   Let us know if we can provide you with the insiders knowledge to help you decide if Alexandria is the right town for your next home.

Arbour Realty’s Five to Try: Alexandria

1. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum – Once a real tavern, this building now houses a museum demonstrating the prominent role of the tavern in 18th-century Alexandria. As the center of local political, business and social life, the tavern was frequented by everyone who was anybody, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and the Marquis de Lafayette. The rooms are restored to their 18th-century appearance.
2. Stabler-Leadbetter Apothecary Museum –  Originally opened in 1792, this family business closed its doors during the Depression – locking in 141 years of American history.  Now it’s a museum housing over 900 beautiful hand-blown apothecary bottles and strange old items like Martha Washington’s Scouring Compound.
3. George Washington National Masonic Memorial – Alexandria’s most prominent landmark features a fine view from its 333 foot tower, where you can see the Capitol, Mt. Vernon and the Potomac River. It is modeled after the lighthouse in Alexandria and honors America’s first president. Artifacts of Washington’s life and a striking bronze statue not only celebrate his life as President, but also his life as a Free Mason.
4. Lee-Fendall House — Between 1785 and 1903, generations of the Lee family lived in this house. Guided tours show the house as it probably was in the 1850s and 1860s, showcasing Lee family heirlooms and personal effects. The Georgian-style townhouse across the street (closed to the public) was Robert E Lee’s childhood home from 1810.
5. US Patent and Trademark Office Museum – This nearly new museum tells the history of the United States patent. The story begins in 1917 in Memphis, TN., where wholesale grocer Clarence Saunders invented and patented what he called ‘Self-Servicing’ stores, now known as the supermarket. He went from rags to riches and almost back to rags again, but you’ll have to visit the museum to get the rest of the story, along with displays depicting other famous and influential patents.

Find homes for sale in Alexandria Virginia.

Showing properties 1 - 5 of 500+. See more city of Alexandria real estate.
(all data current as of 3/15/2010)

1. $895,950 : 8824 Stratford Ln, Alexandria
   
   4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

   Size: 4,256 sq ft

   Lot size: 10,774 sq ft
2. $328,888 : 5822 Valley View Dr, Alexandria
   
   4 beds, 2 full baths

   Size: n/a

   Lot size: 21,781 sq ft
3. $2,950,000 : 12 Wolfe St #52, Alexandria
   
   3 beds, 3 full, 2 part baths

   Size: 5,000 sq ft

   Lot size: n/a
4. $400,000 : 4840 Chowan Ave, Alexandria
   
   3 beds, 1 full bath

   Size: n/a

   Lot size: 19,250 sq ft
5. $365,000 : 7406 Stinson Rd, Alexandria
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Size: 1,580 sq ft

   Lot size: 10,021 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.