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COVER PHOTO: 1201 Wilkes Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, sold in 2023 by Lisa Groover. Photo courtesy of McEnearney Associates, Inc.
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Alexandria, Virginia is one of the best places in the country to live, work and play. The region features unique historic sites, growing economic opportunities, beautiful architecture, a variety of neighborhoods, trails, parks, shopping and dining.
But it’s not just us saying this! Alexandria has gotten some real honors in the past few years. This includes being named one of the best small cities in the country in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. It has also made national lists for being a great city for pets, millennials and retirees.
Whether you’ve just moved here or you never left, this guide has useful information about local services that you may need. Keep it handy this year!
In addition, we suggest that you subscribe to Alexandria Living Magazine in print and sign up for the email newsletters so you don’t miss out on hearing about new restaurants, developments and more. Information on signing up is at alexandrialivingmagazine.com/subscribe.
Beth Lawton and Mary Ann Barton
PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
Babs Beckwith.
The Best Places to Learn About Alexandria’s History
Alexandria and the surrounding area have a long, rich history, and you can see some of it just by walking down Alexandria’s streets. Fortunately, there are a lot of resources to learn about the area’s history. This is by no means a comprehensive list — but it’s a good place to start learning about Alexandria’s fascinating past.
The Alexandria Visitor’s Center, at 221 King St., is a wealth of information on places to visit, local historic tours and more. Ask them about the Friendship Firehouse Museum, the StablerLeadbeater Apothecary Museum and the many self-guided historic walking tours available! Learn more
at visitalexandriava.com/things-to-do/ historic-attractions-and-museums.
Tall Ship Providence
See Northern Virginia’s only tall ship, meet Captain John Paul Jones, and hear about life on the high seas in the Continental Navy. Tours, cruises and historic programs are hosted on this detailed replica of the Providence as it sailed in the 1770s. Learn more and get tickets at tallshipprovidence.org.
Lee-Fendall House Museum
The Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden interprets American history through the experiences of the people who lived and worked on the property from 1785 to 1969. The private museum offers tours and educational programs, including on topics like architecture, the lives of the enslaved and much more. Information is available at leefendallhouse.org.
BY BETH LAWTON
Carlyle House Historic Park
Just a stone’s throw from the Alexandria Visitor’s Center, the Carlyle House Historic Park is the site of an 18th-century historic house museum once owned by John Carlyle, a wealthy merchant and a founder of Alexandria. The Georgian-style stone mansion was completed in 1753 and was featured in the PBS series Mercy Street Learn more at novaparks.com/parks/ carlyle-house-historic-park.
Manumission Tour Co.
Manumission Tour Company provides guided Black history walking tours and fascinating information about Alexandria when it was one of America’s main centers for international and domestic slave trading. Information is available at manumissiontours.com. For much more information about Alexandria’s Black history, be sure to take a look at the Alexandria Black History Museum and the Freedom House Museum (which has been undergoing extensive renovations).
Alexandria Archaeology Museum
Tucked away on the third floor of the Torpedo Factory Art Center (another historic building), the Alexandria
Archaeology Museum features exhibits showing Archaeologists at work on Lee Street, and a fascinating exhibit about the work to preserve Alexandria’s martime history from the 1700s. Learn more at alexandriava.gov/archaeology.
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum consists of two taverns and a hotel from the late 1700s, visited at the time by George and Martha Washington, Thomas Jefferson and even the marquis de Lafayette. Today, tours of these unique haunts are available (guided or self-guided). You can also eat in the historic site’s restaurant. Learn more at alexandriava.gov/GadsbysTavern and at gadsbystavernrestaurant.com.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate
Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate along the Potomac River just a few miles south of the City of Alexandria. The estate of America’s first president, the historic site includes extensive gardens and grounds, the mansion, slave quarters, a whiskey distillery and more. Enjoy historic reenactments, an interactive museum, tours and much more. Plan your visit at mountvernon.org.
PHOTOS
African American Heritage Trail
In 2023, Alexandria opened additional sections of Alexandria’s African American Heritage Trail, a series of interconnected trails that highlights local African American history. From the City of Alexandria’s AAHT website:
Even before the founding of the City of Alexandria in 1749, Africans and their descendants, enslaved and free, have lived and worked along the waterfront, making significant contributions to the local economy and culture. In the 1820s and 1830s, Alexandria became home to the largest domestic slave trading firm, which profited from the sale and trafficking of enslaved African Americans from the Chesapeake to the
Deep South. The Civil War revolutionized social and economic relations, and newly freed African Americans found new job opportunities as a result of the waterfront’s industrialization. The Potomac River played an important role in leisure activities too, including picnicking, boating, and fishing, much as it does for Alexandrians and visitors today.
Each section of the trail has its own storymap — an online interactive guide you can access from your computer at home or from your smartphone while walking along the Potomac River. Learn more about it at alexandriava.gov/historic-sites/ african-american-heritage-trails.
PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
“My Favorite Thing”
About Living in Alexandria
“Alexandria has been nationally recognized for its rich history and beautifully preserved 18th-and 19thcentury architecture for many years. Around every corner and in every neighborhood is a picturesque streetscape, a surprising architectural detail, al fresco dining and global cuisine. I love working with our city leadership to shine a light on Alexandria’s diverse and inclusive community, and expand the lens through which we frame American history and uplift undertold stories. With hundreds of independent boutiques and restaurants, an expanding waterfront district and intimate historic museums, it’s no surprise that Alexandria has been named a ‘Top 5 Best Small City in the U.S.’ for three consecutive years by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.”
Patricia Washington President and CEO, Visit Alexandria
“The best thing about working and living in Alexandria is the undeniable sense of community. I like to call Alexandria a big ‘Cheers’ bar, where everyone knows your name. Your favorite restaurant knows your order when you walk in. Your favorite boutiques know what you like. You get to know the owners behind the business. You get to support someone’s dream by shopping and supporting local. All of this makes Alexandria great.”
Maurisa Potts Founder, Spotted MP
“This area is the best place to live, learn, work and play in Northern Virginia. From the Workhouse Arts Center to Mount Vernon Estate, Occoquan (River) Regional Park to Huntley Meadows, we have it all – history, heritage, diversity, natural beauty, recreation, parks, rivers, great schools, abundant jobs, transportation options and great neighborhoods. And, as we bring the Richmond Highway Corridor into the 21st century redevelopment, planned, vibrant urban communities, it doesn’t get any better!”
Supervisor
Dan Stork
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
Waterfront / PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
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City versus County
It’s a common conversation in the D.C. metro area: You tell someone you just moved to Alexandria, and they ask, “City or County?”
Wait... what?!
For someone who is new here, this can be very confusing. (In fact, it’s puzzling even for some long-term residents!)
‘I Live in Alexandria’
Depending on where you live, your residence with an “Alexandria, VA” mailing address may be in the City of Alexandria or in Fairfax County. The City of Alexandria is entirely separate and independent from Fairfax County.
Alexandria City is located along the Western bank of the Potomac River and about 7 miles South of downtown Washington, D.C.
Fairfax County’s border in the “Alexandria, VA” area is south of the City of Alexandria, along the Potomac River, and goes along a portion of I-495 and mainly south of
Leesburg Pike. Neighborhoods in Fairfax County that have Alexandria mailing addresses include Belle Haven, Belle View, Huntington, Fort Hunt, Mount Vernon, Kingstowne, Newington and the surrounding communities.
How do you know where you are? Look at the street signs! Street signs in the City of Alexandria are green. Street signs in Fairfax County are blue.
Trivia: City vs. County
What’s the difference between a city and a county? Cities are densely populated areas that have access to systems of housing, sanitation, law enforcement, and communication that are provided by the city government.
On the other hand, counties are regions that usually consist of a number of towns and unincorporated census designated places. Often, those towns and neighborhoods are under the jurisdiction of the county government, which provides the amenities such as those listed above.
Government and Politics
One of the things on your list of things to do when you move is to register to vote (or update your current voter registration). You can do this by visiting elections.virginia.gov/citizen-portal. This website is also a great resource for finding your new polling place, your election district and more.
Or, call the City of Alexandria Voter Registration Office at 703-746-4050. Fairfax County residents may call the Fairfax County Elections Office at 703-222-0776.
Local Government Officials
The City of Alexandria and Fairfax County both have their own local government representatives — Alexandria has a Mayor and City Council, Fairfax County has a Board of Supervisors. These entities pass local policies and ordinances, approve the local budget and taxes, consider land use and development plans and more.
Information about the City of Alexandria’s leadership is available at
alexandriava.gov/Council. Terms are for three years and the next election will be in November 2024.
Mayor: Justin M. Wilson
Vice Mayor: Amy Jackson
Council Members: Canek Aguirre Sarah Bagley
John Taylor Chapman Alyia Gaskins Kirk McPike
Fairfax County residents voted for their local Board of Supervisors members in November 2023. Residents with Alexandria, VA mailing addresses are mostly in the Lee, Mason and Mount Vernon districts in Fairfax County. Board members are elected to four-year terms. For a map and more information, go to fairfaxcounty.gov/boardofsupervisors.
Chairman: Jeff McKay
City Hall | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
District Supervisors:
James R. Walkinshaw, Braddock
James N. Bierman, Jr., Dranesville
Walter L. Alcorn, Hunter Mill
Rodney L. Lusk, Franconia
Andres F. Jimenez, Mason
Daniel G. “Dan” Storck, Mount Vernon
Dalia A. Palchik, Providence
Patrick S. “Pat” Herrity, Springfield
Kathy L. Smith, Sully
The Commonwealth of Virginia
Virginia has its own state government that includes a House of Delegates and a State Senate. There are 100 delegates and 40 senators. Elections happen in oddnumbered years.
The Governor of Virginia is Glenn Youngkin. Virginia does not allow governors to serve two consecutive terms, so a new governor will be elected in November 2025.
The Alexandria, VA region is in the following districts:
House Districts 3, 4, 5, 16 and 17.
Senate Districts 34 and 39.
You can find out who your local delegate or senator is at whosmy. virginiageneralassembly.gov. The website also provides their contact information.
Federal Government
There are two U.S. Representatives who represent the Alexandria region.
U.S. Rep. Don Beyer represents Virginia’s 8th Congressional District, which includes most of what people consider the Alexandria area.
U.S. Rep. Gerald E. “Gerry” Connolly represents Virginia’s 11th Congressional District, which includes the Baileys Crossroads and Seven Corners areas in Fairfax County.
The U.S. Senators for Virginia are Mark Warner and Tim Kaine.
ABOUT THE AREA
Fire & Police Departments
IN ALEXANDRIA AND FAIRFAX COUNTY
The City of Alexandria is served by the Alexandria City Fire Department, which was founded in 1774 as the Friendship Firehouse Company. Today, it has a number of stations that cover more than 10 square miles. The Fire Department employs more than 250 personnel including firefighters, paramedics, EMTs, fire prevention staff and administrative support.
The Fairfax County Fire Department was founded in 1949 and serves more than 1 million residents, including residents in the Alexandria area of the county. It is comprised of over 1,400 uniformed employees, 180 civilians and their partners at Volunteer Fire Departments. There are more than 40 fire stations across Fairfax County to serve residents.
ALEXANDRIA CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Emergency 911
Non-emergency 703-746-4444
Smart911
Alexandria City and Fairfax County have a mutual aid agreement, covering each other when things get hectic, so you may see Fairfax County fire trucks in Alexandria City and vice versa.
alexandriava.gov/Fire fairfaxcounty.gov/fire-ems/
FAIRFAX COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Emergency 911 Non emergency 703-246-2126
The City of Alexandri and Fairfax County are part of Smart911, a database that lets residents provide information to emergency services about their home, workplace, special needs and more. Residents may register free at smart911.com.
more than 1,370 sworn and 348 civilian employees. The FCPD has a series of substations across Fairfax County that cover a specific district.
The City of Alexandria is served by the Alexandria Police Department (APD), which consists of more than 320 sworn and 138 civilian employees.
Fairfax County is served by the Fairfax County Police Department, made up of
In addition to the APD and FCPD, you may notice the National Park Service Police, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Police and the Federal Protective Service out in the community.
FAIRFAX COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENTS
12099 Government Center Pkwy., Fairfax, VA 22035 Emergency 911 Non-emergency 703-691-2131
fairfaxcounty.gov/police
PHOTO
COURTESY OF ALEXANDRIA FIRE DEPARTMENT
PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
In the Skies
IN ALEXANDRIA AND FAIRFAX COUNTY
It is very, very common to see and hear helicopters at all hours of the day and night in and around Alexandria. There are a few reasons for this:
· The President and Vice President of the United States routinely travel by helicopter.
· The Coast Guard and various branches of the Military from Fort Belvoir to the Pentagon are active in the region.
· Local police and rescue organizations frequently use helicopters to search for criminals or transport critically injured persons.
This is in addition to traffic helicopters, corporate helicopters and other air traffic making noise across the region.
In 2021, the U.S. Dept. of Defense released a study of helicopter noise in the D.C. metro area. The report revealed that the region’s airspace “is one of the busiest and most restrictive in the United States” and often helicopters need to fly low to avoid commercial passenger and cargo jets. This means more noise closer to the ground where residents will notice it.
In 2022, Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) worked with Congress, the Eastern Region Helicopter Council and the Helicopter Association International to launch a website to track helicopter noise complaints. Residents will be able to use a website, mobile app or make a phone call to register complaints about aircraft noise. More information is available at planenoise.com/dcmetro.
Stay Informed
The City of Alexandria and Fairfax County both have robust emergency alert systems for weather, events, traffic and much more. For your safety, you’ll want to sign up for these alerts. In addition, you can sign up for the neighborhood platforms and resources listed here to stay informed about everything going on in your area.
City of Alexandria
The City’s eNews service lets you sign up to receive emergency alerts and information on more than 100 topics. Sign up for eNews at alexandriava.gov/enews.
Fairfax County
You can sign up for emergency alerts from Fairfax County at fairfaxcounty.gov/alerts. The system is customizable based on your location(s), devices, topics of interest and more.
Neighborhood News
In addition, there are plenty of social media accounts to follow and email newsletters that can provide interesting and helpful information:
• Alexandria City residents should sign up for Alexandria ENews.
• Fairfax County residents can sign up for similar notifications at fairfaxcounty.gov/alerts.
• Nextdoor.com is a platform for neighborhoods to share information, recommendations, ask questions and share resources.
• Sign up for Alexandria Living Magazine’s email newsletter, too, for news about events, businesses, government, people and much more at alexandrialivingmagazine.com/subscribe.
• On social media, we recommend following these accounts on Facebook and Twitter: City of Alexandria, Transportation & Environmental Services (City of Alexandria), Police Department (City of Alexandria), Fairfax County, Fairfax County Police Department.
PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
Should I go to my doctor, urgent care or the ER?
When you are feeling ill or are dealing with an injury, there are three main medical service providers you may consider visiting: your doctor, an urgent care center or the ER.
The main difference between these three services is essentially the urgency and severity of the ailments they attend to. So how do you know when you should go to the doctor, urgent care or the ER?
Local Hospitals
These hospitals provide essential medical services to the City of Alexandria, Fairfax County and surrounding areas.
If you are experiencing a serious, lifethreatening situation, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.
You can look up Inova Emergency Room waiting times at inova.org/ emergency-room-wait-times.
Inova Mt. Vernon Hospital 2501 Parkers Ln., Alexandria 703-664-7000
Dominion Hospital 2960 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Falls Church 703-536-2000
Inova Fairfax Hospital 3300 Gallows Rd., Falls Church 703-776-4001
PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Doctor. If you are in a non-emergency situation or experiencing a non-life threatening ailment, your primary care doctor is the place to go. With knowledge of your medical history, your doctor can also refer you to another medical expert who can deal with more specific health issues.
Urgent Care. If you are in a non-life-threatening/nonemergency situation but are unable to see a doctor, or if you would just like more immediate attention for an illness or injury such as the flu or a sprained ankle, this is when you would consider an urgent care center. Unlike most doctors, urgent care is a walk-in clinic. These are typically open late, on weekends and during holidays.
Emergency Room (ER). The most common reasons to go to an emergency room are wheezing, chest pain,
open wounds or serious fractures, fainting, sudden extreme weakness, numbness, bleeding that cannot be stopped, serious abdominal pain (especially localized), head injury, vomiting or coughing up blood or the sudden, unexpected inability to see, walk, talk or move. Note: This is not a comprehensive list.
CITY OF ALEXANDRIA
AllCare Family Medicine and Urgent Care of Alexandria 3117 Duke St., Alexandria 703-751-8800
NOVA Patient Care
526 N Henry St., Alexandria 703-348-9110
MedStar PromptCare at Alexandria 3610 D King St., Alexandria 703-845-2815
SOUTHEAST FAIRFAX COUNTY
Nova Patient Care
7609 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria 703-822-4940
Patient First - Alexandria
6311 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria 703-647-6087
AllCare Urgent Care
6020 Richmond Hwy. #102, Alexandria 571-308-6776
Medical Access-My Urgent Care & More
7598 Telegraph Rd., Alexandria 703-778-04
There are a few major medical construction projects in progress now in Alexandria.
· Inova is building a new HealthPlex that will include an emergency room, ambulatory surgery and more at Oakville Triangle in the Potomac Yard neighborhood.
· On the other end of the city, a brand new hospital and trauma center will be the anchor of a large new development at the former site of Landmark Mall.
· In Springfield, Inova has started construction on a new hospital next to the existing Franconia-Springfield HealthPlex. Alexandria Living Magazine 23
Health & Human Services
Both the City of Alexandria and Fairfax County have robust health, community and human services departments, providing a variety of services for the young and old from education to mental health to daily living support.
ALEXANDRIA CITY COMMUNITY & HUMAN SERVICES
The City of Alexandria’s Community & Human Services department’s mission is: We envision a community in which residents enjoy a sense of well-being, safety and self-sufficiency. We strive to provide effective and essential safety net services that measurably improve or maintain the quality of life for Alexandrians. We are guided by the following values and principles: equal access for all people, dignity and respect, cultural competency, ethics and accountability, collaboration, competency, integrity and continuous improvement.
The department provides social services, assistance with public benefits, mental health support and information, development disability support, substance abuse services and provides multiple services for women in need of assistance. DCHS also provides training and volunteer opportunities for residents.
More information is available at alexandriava.gov/DCHS or you may call 703-746-5700.
Fairfax County provides a wide variety of services for all residents, helping everyone reach their full potential and live healthy, productive lives. Programs includes immediate crisis intervention, long-term programs, physical and mental health care, disability services, income assistance, housing and homelessness services, and protection and preventive services for anyone at-risk. Learn more at fairfaxcounty.gov/health-humanservices or call 703-324-7329.
FAIRFAX COUNTY HOTLINES
Emergency Basic Needs
703-222-0880 (TTY 711)
Emergency Mental Health (24/7) 703-573-5679 (TTY 711)
Suicide Prevention (24/7) 988
Domestic & Sexual Violence (24/7) 703-360-7273 (TTY 711)
Child Protective Services (24/7)
703-324-7400 (TTY 703-222-9452)
Adult Protective Services
703-324-7450 (TTY 703-449-1186)
Utilities
One of the first things you’ll need to do when moving to a new home is setting up your water, electric and other utility services. Here’s information on who to call in the City of Alexandria and in Fairfax County:
WATER & SEWER
American Water (City of Alexandria) 800-452-6863
Report an emergency: amwater.com
Alexandria Renew Enterprises 703-549-3381
alexrenew.com
Fairfax Water (Fairfax County) for both water and sewage 703-698-5800 (TTY 711)
The City of Alexandria generally provides one 64-gallon trash can, free of charge, to households that receive City provided trash collection (except in Old Town). Trash cans and recycling bins are City property and must remain at your residence if you move. Another City-issued trash can may be purchased if needed, but remains the property of the City of Alexandria.
If you live in Old Town Alexandria or in a town home community with limited access, your location may prevent the use of the 64-gallon trash cans. Please use approved trash containers to store bagged trash outdoors.
SET OUT TIMES AND DAYS
Set out trash and recycling containers no earlier than 5 p.m. the day prior to collection, and no later than 6 a.m. on collection day. Collection days vary by location and are subject to change due to holidays. Refer to the map at alexandriava.gov/ RefuseCollection for more information about collection days and times.
SPECIAL ITEMS
Certain items may be set out with your trash, but require special preparation. This includes glass, select large or bulky items and yard debris. More information on preparing those items for collection is available at alexandriava.gov/RefuseCollection.
Fairfax County
About 10% of residents and businesses have county trash and recycling pick up, but 90% have pick up provided by private companies.
You can find out who is responsible for picking up your trash and recycling by calling 703-802-3322 (TTY 711) or visiting fairfaxcounty.gov/publicworks/ recycling-trash.
County provided trash and recycling are collected between the hours of 6 a.m. and
6 p.m. Staff will empty containers and return them to the curb or street line. All trash and recycling must be placed at the curb in the proper container by 6 a.m. on your collection day to ensure collection.
There are also two drop off location for trash and recycling available to all Fairfax County residents. Disposal fees apply and proof of residency is required:
I-95 Landfill Complex
9850 Furnace Road Lorton, VA 22079
1-66 Transfer Station Complex 4618 West Ox Road Fairfax, VA 22030
Special Recycling
Glass Recycling
While paper and plastics qualify for singlestream recycling from your home or office, Alexandria and Fairfax County require residents to bring glass to a “purple bin” facility for recycling. Glass put in at-home bins or placed curbside may not be recycled due to breakage or contamination. There are dozens of purple bins throughout the Alexandria area. A map of purple bin locations is available at fairfaxcounty. gov/publicworks/news/regional-approach-glassrecycling-leads-creation-purple-can-club.
Electronics Recycling
Electronics that do not have sensitive data on them can be recycled at 3324 Colvin St., the Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Collection Center for the City of Alexandria.
In Fairfax County, residents can bring electronics to the I-66 Transfer Station (4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax) or the I-95 Landfill Complex (9850 Furnace Road, Lorton).
Getting Around Alexandria
There’s one drawback to living in Alexandria — sitting in traffic. Fortunately, there are a lot of ways to get around Alexandria. Before you hop in the car, take a look at these alternatives.
The first place you should go is alexandriava.gov/GOAlex, which offers a great, frequently updated overview of your options.
Buses and Trains
Alexandria’s public bus system is DASH (Driving Alexandria Safely Home), which operates multiple routes and is free to
use. Routes and times can also be found through the DASH Bus app or through dashbus.com.
Free and simple, The King Street Trolley only has one route: from the King Street Metro station to the Old Town waterfront and back, making stops along the way. It may feel a little touristy, but its yearround reliability makes it an excellent option if you’re running late (or just don’t feel like walking).
The Fairfax County Connector bus service has several stops in southeastern Fairfax County, including the Mount Vernon area, Telegraph Road, Richmond Highway and Franconia Road. Times and stops can be found at fairfaxcounty.gov/connector.
PHOTOS
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) runs the Metro rail (usually called “the Metro” for short) and the Metro bus systems in the District, Northern Virginia and parts of Maryland. The website at wmata.com and the WMATA app are excellent resources for planning your trip.
The Metro is a good option for getting in and out of the District. Alexandria’s six rail stops are on the blue and yellow lines. We recommend purchasing a SmartTrip card or downloading the SmartTrip app.
You can also get into the District with the Virginia Railway Express (the VRE), which primarily serves commuters and stops at the King Street train station, which also serves Amtrak. It travels up to Union Station in Washington, D.C.
Scooters, Bikes and Other Shared Mobility
Alexandria is home to many alternative modes of transportation, including Capital Bikeshare, which allows you to rent a bike for one-way, short trips all around Northern Virginia, the District and Maryland. Alexandria has several dozen Capital Bike Share docking stations across the City. Learn more at capitalbikeshare.com.
In addition, several national companies operate shared, dockless bikes and scooters, which you’ll find on sidewalks throughout Alexandria and elsewhere in Northern Virginia. The scooters can be unlocked with the scooter or bike company’s app. Learn the rules and more at alexandriava.gov/DocklessMobility.
Driving and Parking
How difficult it is to park in Alexandria depends on the neighborhood and time of day.
While every neighborhood has some free parking, you’re likely to encounter parking meters in much of the City in addition to pay parking garages. Pay close attention to parking signs – some neighborhoods restrict parking to certain times of the day or to only certain residential area permit holders.
For paid street parking, meters are placed on every block where paid street parking is available, and the machines take cards or cash. You can also download the ParkMobile app to your phone to quickly pay for parking from your mobile device.
Registering your Vehicle
To get new license plates, you can make an appointment with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). An office is located at 2681 Mill Road in Alexandria. You may also be able to make an appointment at a DMV Connect location, which is essentially a mobile DMV office, and you can take care of most tasks online. Go to dmv.virginia.gov for more information.
You must register your vehicle with the City of Alexandria or with Fairfax County after you move. Instructions and more information about how to do this are available on p. 32.
Biking Around Alexandria
Alexandria is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the United States.
“The City’s expansion of the Bikeshare program, installation and designation of new bike lanes and routes, as well as the continual installation of bicycle parking throughout the City are just a few of the initiatives that make the City of Alexandria a nationally recognized Bike Friendly Community,” according to Alexandria’s online bicycling guide at alexandriava.gov/Bicycling.
In addition to that bicycling resource on the City of Alexandria’s website, the Washington Area Bicyclist Association has maps and documents to help you bike around town safely and easily. Go to waba.org/resources/ maps-and-documents.
You don’t need your own bike to cycle to work! The Alexandria area has more than 30 Capital Bikeshare stations – part of a regional bike sharing system with more than 500 stations in the District, Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax County and nearby Maryland. Learn more at capitalbikeshare.com.
PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
System Map
Moving Your Car to Alexandria
After you get your vehicle registered with the Commonwealth of Virginia, there are some local things you’ll need to take care of here in the Alexandria area.
City of Alexandria
FROM THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA GOVERNMENT:
All motor vehicles normally parked, stored, or garaged (having situs) in the City of Alexandria, including vehicles with out-ofstate plates, must be registered for the City’s annual personal property tax.
All motor vehicles registered to a City address with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles must also be registered with
the City, even vehicles normally parked, stored, or garaged in another state.
Vehicle owners must register with the City within 30 days of moving into the City, purchasing a vehicle, or registering a vehicle to a City address with Virginia DMV.
Note that if a residential parking permit is needed, it must be obtained immediately at City Hall. There is no 30-day grace period for residential parking permits.
How do you register your vehicle with the City?
You may register your car through an online form at secure.alexandriava.gov/ vehicle/registration.php.
In addition, some neighborhoods require residential parking permits and guest passes for street parking. More
PHOTOS BY CHRIS MILITZER
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As an affiliate of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, we have access to the highest caliber of real estate professionals in 70 countries and across six continents. When buying or selling property outside of our local market, our world-class connections can help with all your real estate needs. SERVING THE WASHINGTON, DC METRO AREA SINCE 1980. 109 S Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 | Tel. +1 877 624 9322 Relocation@McEnearney.com | McEnearney.com | Equal Housing Opportunity
information about that is available on the Car Tax webpage.
Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, the Department of Tax Administration handles the assessment of all vehicles normally garaged/parked in Fairfax County. Complete information is available at fairfaxcounty.gov/taxes/ vehicles.
FROM FAIRFAX COUNTY GOVERNMENT:
In addition to the value-based property tax, you must also register the vehicle with the county or town and pay a fee. Registration fees vary based on vehicle type, weight and use.
All vehicles, including automobiles, trucks, and motorcycles, are required to be registered with the Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration (DTA) within 60 days of purchase or move into the county.
You can register your vehicle with Fairfax County online at fairfaxcounty.gov/taxes/ vehicles. Or, you may register by phone at 703-222-8234 (TTY 711).
Safety and Emissions Inspections
The Commonwealth of Virginia requires that all cars on the road in our area pass safety and emissions inspections. Most local gas stations and mechanic shops do both.
For complete information on emission inspections, visit dmv.virginia.gov/ vehicles/#emissions.asp. The Virginia State Police require safety inspections on all vehicles to ensure your tires, brakes, turn signals and more are in working order at all times. More information on this is available at vsp.virginia.gov.
HOV, HOT and E-ZPASS
If you’re moving here from outside the area, this may be the first time you’re encountering our notorious traffic congestion. No kidding: Our region consistently ranks among the top 3 worst traffic cities in the country based on a variety of studies.
One way around it: Take the HOT lanes. On all major highways in our region, there are HOT lanes. HOT stands for high-occupancy toll.
Vehicles with at least three people in them can use these lanes free of charge. Cars with fewer than three people will pay a toll that varies depending on time of day, traffic congestion and other factors. Either way, you need an E-ZPass.
Virginia uses the E-ZPass to collect tolls from drivers. E-ZPass is a small device that you mount on your windshield. As you’re driving, sensors and cameras over the road read your device and charge your account accordingly.
To get an E-ZPass, visit E-ZPassVA.com and simply request one. You’ll need to link your bank account or a credit card to your E-ZPass account for automatic toll deduction.
Life’s adventure is brimming with firsts, each carrying a unique blend of excitement and trepidation. In the heart of your home and family, we stand ready to accompany you on this journey, ensuring that every first becomes a joyous moment and a reassuring step forward.
Choosing a New Bank or Credit Union
Moving is one of the most common reasons people switch their bank.
In Alexandria, you have no shortage of options — dozens of major national banks and credit unions, locally-owned financial institutions and even online-only options are available. How do you decide where to go?
Start with understanding the difference between a bank and a credit union. Both banks and credit unions provide a variety of financial services, from regular checking and saving accounts to debit cards, credit cards, savings certificates, online banking, online bill pay and much more. A credit union is typically not-forprofit and member-owned, which means the financial institution’s profits are returned to the members in the form of lower rates and fewer fees.
However, some smaller credit unions have fewer services and locations than
big credit unions and local and national banks. If you tend to visit your bank or credit union branch routinely, this may be something to consider.
Here are five questions to ask yourself before committing to a new financial institution:
• Are ATM and branch locations convenient to where I live or work?
• How much of a balance do you need to avoid fees and earn interest?
• Are there fees for mobile deposits or online banking?
• Are there fees for bounced checks or overdraft protection?
• What types of rewards can I earn with my bank account?
We recommend that you talk to your friends, new neighbors and coworkers about which bank they use and why. Check out online reviews, too!
How to Choose a Real Estate Agent
Choosing who to represent you in what may be the largest financial transaction of your life is not something to take lightly. The right real estate professional can be a major factor in how smoothly your transaction goes and how happy you are in your home for years to come.
Don’t feel pressured to work with a friend or family member. Just because they’re qualified doesn’t mean they’re the right person to work with, and it could damage your relationship. However, your friends and family can be a great resource to find an agent — they can be honest with you about their experiences!
Here are some questions to ask real estate professionals that will help you decide who to work with:
• Are they a member of the National Association of Realtors?
• What training, qualifications and certifications do they have?
• Have they helped residents buy or sell properties in the neighborhoods you’re interested in?
• Do they work primarily with buyers or sellers?
• What is their communication style? Should you expect emails, text messages or phone calls? How often?
• Are they a member of a larger team? What type of support do they have throughout the process?
• Are they willing to provide references?
We wish you the best with your home search! Welcome to Alexandria!
PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
Do You Need a Home Inspection?
Whether the home you want to buy is 50 years old or just 5 years old, getting a home inspection is a critical part of the home buying process. Paint, carpeting and cosmetic improvements can hide major issues with a home, and you don’t want to be unpleasantly surprised after closing!
Some of the best real estate deals on the market right now are homes that are being sold “as is.” Unfortunately, those deals can come with massive hidden costs.
But no matter how a property is being sold, buyers really should get an inspection or a pre-purchase evaluation by a qualified home inspection professional. An inspection or evaluation can reveal major issues that even an experienced homeowner may not recognize.
The biggest three issues with a home that can come up whether they are sold ‘as is’ or not are structural issues, water intrusion and systemic issues with HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), electric or plumbing.
Home inspectors can point out needed repairs, and a contractor can give estimates on how much those repairs will cost. A qualified home inspector or contractor can also find code violations and help uncover work done without permits, potentially saving the
down the road.
Both Alexandria City and Fairfax County have online systems where any member of the public can search the work permit history of a property by address. Online searches are free. While the search will not reveal work done without permits, your home inspector or contractor will be able to recognize what previous owners have done to the home, and you can compare their knowledge with the permit records.
To check the permit history of a property in Alexandria, go to https://www.alexandriava.gov/Permits.In Fairfax County, go to https://plus. fairfaxcounty.gov/CitizenAccess /Default.aspx.
homeowner tens of thousands of dollars
PHOTO BY KALISTA DIAMANTOPOULOS
How to Choose the Right Community for You
Alexandria and Southeast Fairfax County have every imaginable option for neighborhoods – from quiet and wooded to urban or historic. Deciding where you want to live is the first step toward making Alexandria your home.
The best way to decide where to live is to take a hard look at yourself.
Who are you living with, and what are their needs? Whether it’s children, pets, older relatives or just yourself, evaluate what everyone involved will need to live happy, healthy and safe lives.
• Do you want a single family home with land, or a town home or condo?
• Do you have the resources to live in a historic home, which may require more upkeep than a newer property?
• Do you like walking to local restaurants and stores, or would you rather be away from the hustle and bustle?
• Are there things you want to specifically avoid, like living on a busy street or late-night noise?
• Before you decide on a neighborhood, test your commute to work — how long it takes to get home from work should be a consideration.
Once you’ve answered those questions, a qualified Realtor can help you narrow down your options based on your preferences and budget. You should look at information about local schools, crime statistics, parks and recreation (if those are important to you), plus local attractions and amenities.
You’ll want to observe your neighborhood, too, at different times of the day and on different days. A neighborhood that seems so quiet on a Monday can be very different Saturday night. Talking to your potential neighbors can be invaluable at getting the real inside scoop, too.
No matter where you settle, welcome to Alexandria!
PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Old Town ALEXANDRIA
Adorned with charming cobblestone streets and 18th-century buildings, Old Town Alexandria sits overlooking the Potomac River.
THINGS
Old Town has beautiful historic properties, brick sidewalks and cobblestone streets.
There are wonderful shopping options and awardwinning restaurants.
The calendar is packed with attractions and events for all ages.
FAVORITE
Old Town was founded as a colonial tobacco port in 1749. The town was frequented by notable figures such as George Washington who traveled nine miles from his Mt. Vernon estate to dine at Gadsby’s Tavern, attend service at Christ Church and sell his farm produce at the Farmer’s Market, all of which still operate today.
Today, Old Town is a part of the 22314 ZIP code which is home to 32,991 residents. The Alexandria City Public Schools provide K-12 education to children in this area.
The city’s “Main Street” is King Street, which is lined with boutiques and
restaurants. The street begins at the waterfront and ends at King Street Metro Station. You’ll also find shops, boutiques and much more on the surrounding streets, as well as residential neighborhoods featuring historic row homes as well as newer properties.
Above: King Street / PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON Right: Farmer’s Market / PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
Fun Fact
Alexandria was ranked #3 in the Best Small Cities in the United States category in 2021 by
Condé Nast Traveler readers.
PHOTOS BY BETH LAWTON
Waterfront
Some of Alexandria’s newest and most sought-after properties are located along the Potomac River waterfront in Old Town Alexandria.
There are gorgeous views north and south along the Potomac River.
The waterfront has an endless number of parks, each with their own unique character.
Don’t miss the frequent events and fun nightlife.
PHOTO BY RACHEL HEGARTY
Many public parks with dog play areas, volleyball and basketball courts and playgrounds line the waterfront. The recently developed Waterfront Park, with its interactive art display and pavilioned sitting area, has quickly become the most visited park in the city.
The Waterfront is also the site of Old Dominion Boat club’s new clubhouse that boasts a rooftop tiki bar. Many popular restaurants and bars are located along the water including Vola’s, Chadwick’s, Virtue Feed & Grain and Charthouse.
Annual events like Alexandria’s birthday celebration and fireworks in July and the holiday boat parade of lights in December
Fun Fact
If you’re hoping to become a member of the Old Dominion Boat Club, expect to wait at least 3 years after paying your deposit. In the meantime, you’re welcome to visit the club as the guest of a member, and it’s well worth your time. The views from the upper deck on a nice night are beautiful!
take place along the water. The Torpedo Art Factory, a former WWII torpedo factory, hints at the waterfront’s past as an industrial area. It was purchased by the city in 1969 and converted into an Art Center and it houses the nation’s largest collection of working artist’s studios that are open to the public.
PHOTOS BY BETH LAWTON
Carlyle / Eisenhower East
Without the architectural restrictions of Old Town, Carlyle and Eisenhower East are home to many high-rise office buildings, condominiums, hotels and apartments.
Lost Boys Cider and several restaurants make this a lively neighborhood.
Modern neighborhood with an urban feel.
Exciting developments are on the way here.
FAVORITE THINGS
PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Many important businesses and organizations are located in Carlyle and the Eisenhower East area, including the U.S. Patent and Trademark office, the U.S. District Court, the National Science Foundation and Alexandria Renew Enterprises.
On weekdays, the area is bustling with office workers patronizing the nearby lunch, coffee and happy hour spots. Alexandria’s Whole Foods is in this neighborhood and a Wegmans food market opened in 2022.
The area is conveniently located near the King Street and Eisenhower metro stations as well as Interstate-495. Lost Boy Cider opened in 2019 and is a popular spot for ciders made from Virginia apples and food provided by a rotating number of food trucks. Dogs and kids are welcome at Lost Boy and both can be found there in abundance on any given weekend afternoon.
Every December there is a European-style holiday market at Carlyle Square.
Carlyle and Eisenhower East has a population of approximately 5,000 people.
Fun Fact
This neighborhood is home to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, which moved here in 2005. Employees have ranked the USPTO as one of the best federal agencies to work for in the U.S. government. The neighborhood also boasts the headquarters of the National Science Foundation.
John Carlyle Park | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Alexandria Living Magazine 47
Del Ray
Over the years, Del Ray has preserved its quirky, small-town appeal with numerous independent shops and eclectic eateries that line its main street, Mt. Vernon Avenue.
Del Ray has a fantastic variety of coffee shops.
The area is very friendly for children and dogs.
This is one of Alexandria’s most walkable neighborhoods.
FAVORITE THINGS
Art on the Avenue | PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
Just northwest of Old Town, you’ll find Del Ray, a quaint neighborhood and former streetcar suburb, which is part of the 22301 ZIP code. Del Ray is host to a flourishing restaurant scene that features sushi, Southern favorites and everything in between.
Del Ray also boasts several top-notch coffee shops. On any given day you can find St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub packed with Del Ray neighbors chatting over coffee, or students enjoying a quick pick-me-up as they cram for a test. You may also want to check out Swing’s Coffee, BonVivant, Nectar, Stomping Ground, Junction… the list goes on.
On Saturdays, the locals make their way to the Del Ray Farmers Market which offers fresh produce from local farms, delicious baked goods and more.
The residential areas of Del Ray that border Mt. Vernon Avenue feature a variety of house styles ranging from Cape Cods to bungalows, colonials and even a
few Victorians. Del Ray is home to about 13,000 residents, and the median age is 37 years old.
Just north of Del Ray is Arlandria, a neighborhood that boasts The Birchmere, a world-famous music venue. You’ll also find an international flair, with a variety of El Salvadorian and Vietnamese businesses.
Fun Fact
Del Ray was one of the earliest streetcar suburbs in the nation.
Retail & dining along Mount Vernon Avenue | PHOTOS BY CHRIS MILITZER
National Landing & Potomac Yard
National Landing is a newly designed urban neighborhood that is comprised of parts of Crystal City, eastern Pentagon City and northern Potomac Yard.
It is the site of the new Amazon HQ2 and the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus. The area is already very bike-friendly and pedestrian-friendly, and expect it become even more so as new development progresses, including a huge new Virginia Tech Innovation Campus, and as more condos and townhomes arrive.
The area will be served by three metro stations (Crystal City, Pentagon City and a new Potomac Yards station which opened in 2023) as well as a VRE station. Regan National Airport is located just north of National Landing with easy access to
Friendliest neighborhood for commuters and travelers.
Easy access to top dining options.
Exciting developments on the horizon.
major roads including Interstate 395, Route 1 (Richmond Highway), Route 110 and the George Washington Memorial Parkway. In late 2023, the City of Alexandria, state officials and Monumental Sports and Entertainment announced plans to turn a portion of Potomac Yards into a new Sports and Entertainment District.
Potomac Yard, at the southern end of National Landing, has seen a huge amount of development in the past 10 years with new homes, businesses and even new parks.
Originally Amazon planned to split Amazon HQ2 between New York City and Northern Virginia, but for a number of reasons ultimately decided to withdraw its deal in New York and focus its efforts entirely on Northern Virginia.
FAVORITE THINGS
PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
North Ridge
Nestled up the hill from Del Ray, Northridge offers a taste of small town flavor with an eclectic mix of housing, from old farmhouses and cottages to modern colonials and split levels.
The area was developed in the early 20th century and is considered one of Alexandria’s oldest planned residential neighborhoods and includes Jefferson Park, Braddock Heights and Beverley Hills. The neighborhoods of Parkfairfax and Rosemont are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tree lined streets, bird sanctuary Monticello Park and parks are popular spots, with small shops and restaurants within walking distance.
The adjacent Rosemont Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Quiet neighborhood with beautiful architecture.
Great for runners. Monticello Park.
West End
The West End of Alexandria encompasses a large area and is one of Alexandria’s fastest growing and most exciting neighborhoods.
Generally thought of as “anything west of Quaker Lane,” the West End includes Landmark, Seminary Hill, Seminary Valley, Brookville, Cameron Station and several other neighborhoods.
Cameron Station is an award-winning designed community of 2,000 single family homes, townhomes and condominiums built on the site of a former U.S. Army post. The community boasts a clubhouse, multiple pools and
Fun Fact
Breweries and diverse restaurants.
Housing options for a wide range of tastes.
A lot of parks and green space.
a number of shops. Another popular neighborhood in the West End is Seminary Valley, a collection of 1950’s single family homes in a quiet area that’s walkable to both Landmark Mall and grocery stores, restaurants and shopping.
The West End features the city’s two craft breweries, Port City Brewing Company and Aslin Beer Company. The West End is also home to a large number of parks, historic sites and nature reserves including Fort Ward Museum, Winkler Botanical Preserve and the Dora Kelley Nature Park.
West End ZIP codes are 22302 and 22304 and over 60,000 residents call this area home.
Port City Brewing Company beers have won many awards and the brewery is a leader in sustainable brewing. Most of the breweries’ grains and packaging are locally sourced.
FAVORITE THINGS
Cameron Station | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Shagufta Hasan
“It was an absolute pleasure to have Shagufta sell my home. I had initially tried to sell it myself (FSBO) a few years ago when Shagufta contacted me but then decided to rent it. We’ve stayed in touch until I finally decided to sell my property this year. Her advice and suggestions regarding updates, list price, etc. were monumental in receiving 3 offers within the first week and closing 30 days after a ratified contract. I’d highly recommend Shagufta.” - Vernon D.
Seminary Hill
FAVORITE THINGS
One of Alexandria’s largest pumpkin patches is at Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill.
Quiet streets and hilly terrain make this a great neighborhood for runners.
Inova Alexandria is a highly rated regional hospital.
Seminary Hill is one of the largest neighborhoods of the West End in the City of Alexandria.
It got its name from the Virginia Theological Seminary at the corner of Quaker Lane and Seminary Road, which is at the top of Alexandria’s highest hill.
The Virginia Theological Seminary is the flagship seminary of the Episcopal Church. It was founded in 1823 and is gearing up for its 200th anniversary.
addition to beautiful homes in the neighborhood, Seminary Hill includes Fort Ward Museum & Historic site, the Minnie Howard campus of T.C. Williams High School and Inova Alexandria Hospital.
Fort Ward, which was used during the Civil War, is now a historic site in a 45-acre park. The park frequently hosts historic interpretation events and reenactments.
Fort Ward Museum | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Landmark
FAVORITE THINGS
Accessibility for commuters.
Future development of Landmark Mall.
Culturally diverse neighborhood.
Nestled largely east of I-395 in Alexandria’s West End is the Landmark area.
The area was anchored by Landmark Mall, which closed in 2017, and a complete redevelopment of the 51-acre site is now underway. Inova will build a new hospital and trauma center there, and the site will welcome new residences, retail, services and more between now and 2030.
Landmark is home to many apartment and condo buildings and more of the area’s residents rent their homes than own them, but there are a number of single-family homes in the area.
Landmark is a very culturally diverse neighborhood. There is a large concentration of ethnic grocery stores and restaurants in this area including La Mart, Makeda Ethiopian Restaurant and Calabash, to name only a few.
Estimates of the population for this area vary but is somewhere in the range of 20,000 people. Landmark is located in the 22304 area code.
The second Wonder Woman film was partially filmed at the old Landmark Mall in 2018.
Holmes Run | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Fairfax County
Fairfax County is the 42nd largest county in the nation, with a population of more than 1.1 million people — more than 10% of Virginia’s total population. It covers almost 400 square miles of land.
There are lots of recreational opportunities for weekend warriors.
Southeast Fairfax County has some incredible parks and natural areas.
There’s great shopping nearby, including Springfield Town Center and Tysons Galleria.
FAVORITE THINGS
PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
The Alexandria area of Fairfax County represents just a small part of the whole.
Fairfax County was incorporated in 1742 when it broke off from the northern part of Prince William County. The county was named for Thomas Fairfax, the 6th Lord Fairfax of Cameron who was born in the late 1600s and owned millions of acres in what is now Northern Virginia. He was fabulously wealthy.
There are big changes coming to Southeastern Fairfax County. The Board of Supervisors has approved a plan to improve Richmond Highway, the area’s main thoroughfare, adding dedicated Bus Rapid Transit lanes, new shopping centers, major improvements for pedestrians and bicyclists and more. The changes in the next decade are expected to make Richmond Highway better for commuters and everyone who lives in the area.
On the following pages, we present overviews of Franconia, Rose Hill and
Kingstowne, in the western part of what’s considered Southeastern Fairfax County, and the Richmond Highway corridor communities of Huntington, Belle Haven, Hybla Valley, Groveton, Fort Hunt and Mount Vernon.
26.1% of Fairfax County residents are under the age of 20.
Route 1 / PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
Franconia
Franconia consists of a variety of housing developments, apartment complexes and townhome communities.
There are a variety of shopping centers throughout the area and nearby is the Springfield Town Center which boasts a movie theater, a Target and many other popular chain stores and restaurants.
Commuters enjoy the area’s close proximity to the Franconia-Springfield
Proximity to major interstates.
A lot of shopping and dining options.
metro station and the “mixing bowl” intersection of Interstates 95, 395 and 495.
Variety of housing options.
Many people who work at Fort Belvoir, a U.S. Army base, and the local U.S. Coast Guard installation and other military entities live in Franconia.
Franconia includes ZIP codes 22310 and 22315 and the latest data puts the population at 18,245.
The Laurel Grove School located at 6840 Beulah Street was established in 1886 by former slaves as a school for the first generation of black children born to freedom. The school closed in 1932 but is now a museum and is the last remaining African American schoolhouse in Northern Virginia.
FAVORITE THINGS
PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Rose Hill
FAVORITE THINGS
Accessibility to interstate.
Rose Hill is a quiet and peaceful neighborhood with many singlefamily homes on generously sized lots.
Many of Alexandria’s large churches can be found in this area.
Don’t miss Loftridge park, a 48-acre park with hiking and biking trails.
Greendale golf course is a beautiful Fairfax County-owned golf course located in the Rose Hill area.
Rose Hill is located in the 22310 ZIP code and has a population of a little more than 20,000 residents.
Quiet and scenic neighborhood.
Greendale golf course.
Rose Hill has its own shopping center and developers are seriously considering remaking the single-story shopping plaza into a more vibrant, mixed-use community. Redevelopment could occur between now and 2027.
Rose Hill is named after a nearby 18th century plantation that was established by Daniel French, the builder of the Pohick Church which was associated with founding fathers like George Washington and George Mason.
Greendale Golf Course | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Kingstowne
Kingstowne is a master planned community of apartments, townhomes and single-family homes.
Kingstowne Towne Center is a sprawling shopping complex with a movie theater, Top Golf and a large number of chain stores and restaurants. Wegmans is also located a few miles down the road.
Nearby is the picturesque Kingstowne Lake which is surrounded by a 0.75 mile trail and is a popular spot with joggers
and dog owners.
Kingstowne Lake.
Nalls Produce farm store.
Plenty of restaurants and entertainment options.
Nalls Produce is a family-owned store that sells seasonal produce and plants and is a well-known for its pumpkin patch in the fall and tree farm during the holidays. Visitors to the store can also see the pigs and chickens kept by the owners.
Kingstowne is located in the 22315 ZIP code and has a population of more than 15,000 people.
FAVORITE THINGS
Townhouses in Kingstowne | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Huntington
Located just south of the Beltway and Old Town Alexandria and west of Route 1, the community of Huntington is changing quickly.
It is centered around the Huntington Metro station, which is the southern end of the Metro rail system’s yellow line.
The area around the Huntington Metro station is undergoing a lot of new residential development that is sure to increase the population of this relatively small neighborhood. The Huntington Metro station is one of the few with
It’s easy to commute from Huntington to just about anywhere.
Lots of development will give new residents plenty of housing options.
This is a very tight-knit, welcoming community with its own small community center.
a dedicated garage for thousands of vehicles.
The area is becoming known as the North Gateway to Fairfax County and several developers have proposals before the Fairfax County government to reimagine the Huntington area along Richmond Highway.
The Huntington area’s levee won the Envision Bronze award from the Institute of Sustainable Infrastructure.
FAVORITE THINGS
Huntington Station | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Belle Haven
Across the beltway from Old Town, the upscale Belle Haven neighborhood is home to picturesque, shaded houses and a vibrant and active community.
to the
Very convenient to the Beltway (I-495), Route 1 (Richmond Highway) and the George Washington Memorial Parkway.
Belle Haven Marina | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Belle Haven Marina is an excellent spot to sail, kayak or paddleboard.
FAVORITE THINGS
Close
Mount Vernon Trail.
The community started when Scottish pioneers settled along the Potomac River in the early 18th century. The current community got its start in the 1920s when David Howell, from Alexandria, purchased hundreds of acres of land from the Robinson family. Howell built the golf club (now the Belle Haven Country Club) and many residences in the area.
Everything residents need can be found at the Belle View shopping center, which has several local restaurants as well as chain stores. The community has an ideal location for commuters, nestled just south of Alexandria and bordered by Route 1 to the west and the George Washington Memorial Parkway to the east. Many residents take advantage of the nearby Mount Vernon Trail,
Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve and water access from the Belle Haven Marina.
Belle Haven belongs to the 22307 ZIP code.
Fun Fact
Early Scottish settlers named the area for the Earl of Belhaven.
Belle Haven Country Club | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Janet Caterson Price
“Working with Janet Price was the best decision we made during the homebuying process. Not only did she listen to what we needed, but her decades of experience and exceptional reputation helped us feel confident during our first home buying adventure... She’s also a joy to be around and super responsive!” - C. AND W. (BUYER CLIENTS)
“Excellent, five stars. Our agent is very experienced, she gave us sound advice that was non-biased and self-less. Communication, participation, helping in problem-solving and making the process easy were excellent.” - A. AND F. (SELLER CLIENTS)
Hybla Valley & Groveton
Straddling Route 1 (also known as Richmond Highway) are the up-and-coming neighborhoods of Groveton and Hybla Valley.
This is an up-and-coming and affordable neighborhood.
Huntley Meadows Park is a gem. Lee District Rec Center is a great place for kids and adults.
FAVORITE THINGS
Route 1 | PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
These areas have a large number of singlefamily homes and townhomes as well as some apartments and condominiums.
Many chain retailers and restaurants, including a newly renovated Target, are located off of Route 1.
Huntley Meadows is a 1,500-acre park and wetland and wildlife preserve in this area. It features a historic house museum, nature center, and is a popular spot for its walking and biking trails. It is the largest park managed by the Fairfax County Park Authority.
Lee District Rec Center is nearby and boasts an Olympic sized indoor pool, state of the art gym, extensive athletic courts and fields, a playground and an outdoor water park.
The majority of these areas are located in the 22306 area code.
Fun Fact
Every May, Huntley Meadows hosts a birdathon where park staff and volunteers count birds in the park. Past events have tallied anywhere from 90 to 108 different species in one day!
Fort Hunt
Along the shore of the Potomac River in Southeast Fairfax County, Fort Hunt is one of the area’s most unique and bucolic neighborhoods.
It’s home to Fort Hunt Park, one of Fairfax County’s most unique parks. Inside, you’ll find a fort built in 1897 and used by the United States military as an interrogation center during World War II.
Fort Hunt Park’s trails, pavilions, playgrounds and more.
Beautiful, wooded neighborhoods.
This area has some of the region’s most unique architecture.
FAVORITE THINGS
The grounds of the American Horticultural Society in Fort Hunt | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Fort Hunt is also home to Hollin Hills, a nationally-recognized architectural gem of mid-Century Modern homes by architect Charles M. Goodman. Outside of this area, homes in Fort Hunt are often on lots with mature trees and quiet streets.
The Hollin Hall shopping center includes the Hollin Hall Variety Shop, a throwback to the 1950s five-and-dime, plus a grocery store, bank, drug store and much more.
Other small neighborhoods in the Fort Hunt area include Tauxemont, Herbert Springs, Waynewood, Collingwood,
Stratford Landing, Stratford on the Potomac and more.
Fort Hunt is primarily in the 22308 area code. The 2010 census found the population of Fort Hunt to be 16,045.
Fort Hunt was named after Brig. Gen Henry Hunt, who fought in the Civil War.
Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon is a neighborhood with a special connection to America’s first president.
The entire area was once farmland that was part of George Washington’s expansive Mount Vernon plantation. Now, George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate attracts more than 1 million tourists a year, who come to see the grounds, the home, the whiskey distillery, grain silo, library and much more.
FAVORITE THINGS
However, Mount Vernon is not just a relic of the past. The neighborhood is bordered by the Potomac River, Fort Belvoir (a large U.S. Army installation), Route 1 and Little Hunting Creek. Mount Vernon is home to 12,000 residents (as of the 2020 census), many of whom love taking advantage of access to the Potomac River, numerous trails and parks.
Nearby is the Pope–Leighey House, designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The house is on the grounds of the Woodlawn Plantation.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate.
Large stately homes. Quiet streets and many trails for walking, running and biking.
George Washington’s Gristmill and Distillery | PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
Holes in the Ground, Cranes in the Sky
In the next decade, a dead mall will turn into a vibrant new hospital, some office buildings may become apartments, and all sorts of old spaces will find new uses.
Alexandria Living Magazine has been tracking dozens of new developments across the City of Alexandria and Southeast Fairfax County. To help you keep track of what’s going on, we’ve created an interactive online map tracking more than 50 construction projects. The map is updated monthly and is accessible at alexandrialivingmagazine.com/ development.
Here are just a few of the projects on the map now:
• In Old Town, Alexandria Renew Enterprises has taken down the old steel warehouse to make room for water treatment facilities to make the Potomac River cleaner.
• Nearby, Hilco Redevelopment Partners has purchased the site of the decommissioned GenOn Power Plant and has big plans for housing, office space, dining, retail, and public open space along the Potomac River.
• Southeast Fairfax County is welcoming multiple residential developments, several parks and a whole new vision for the “gateway” area between the City of Alexandria and Fairfax County.
• More than a dozen new apartment complexes, affordable housing developments, condos and townhomes are coming to Alexandria’s West End, welcoming thousands of new residents.
Visit alexandrialivingmagazine.com/ development for dozens of other projects in the works.
PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
About Alexandria City Public Schools
Alexandria is a pioneer in education. One of the first experiments in public education in the nation started in Alexandria. The Alexandria Academy’s Washington Free School was founded in 1785 to educate orphans and children from low-income families.
Today, Alexandria continues to be a pioneer in education. Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) is embarking on a new era in high school education, creating a “connected network” of school buildings and programs to prepare students for the future.
The school system’s mission statement is ‘Every student succeeds: Educating lifelong learners and inspiring civic responsibility.’
In addition, ACPS has:
• 12 elementary schools (including one for Math, Science and Technology and another on a year-round schedule)
• 2 K-8 schools
• 2 middle schools
• 1 high school
• 2 alternative school programs
• plus, early childhood education and adult education programs
Alexandria City Public Schools is a diverse community of more than more than 16,000 students who hail from more than 119 countries and speak 121 total languages. Children are typically assigned to a neighborhood school based on their home address, and all schools are fully accredited.
The Superintendent is Melanie Kay-Wyatt.
The central office for ACPS is located at 1340 Braddock Pl. The school district’s main phone number is 703-619-8000. Learn more at acps.k12.va.us.
About Fairfax County Public Schools
Fairfax County Public Schools serve students all across Fairfax County, and it is one of the largest school districts in the United States.
With more than 178,000 students, FCPS is the 11th largest school division in the nation. Students are diverse, speaking more than 200 languages.
Most students attend their neighborhood school, and all FCPS schools are accredited. More than 90 percent of graduating students plan to pursue further education.
FCPS has a long history: The first 41 schools opened in 1870, and were mostly one-room frame schoolhouses with one
teacher for multiple grades. There are now close to 200 schools and educational centers in Fairfax County. The schools are divided into 9 districts, each with a school board representative. There are also three at-large school board members. The Superintendent of Schools is Dr. Michelle C. Reid.
The school system’s mission is: Fairfax County Public Schools inspires and empowers students to meet high academic standards, lead healthy, ethical lives, and be responsible and innovative global citizens.
More information is available at fcps.edu. The central office is located at 8115 Gatehouse Rd. in Falls Church, and the main phone number is 571-423-3000. Learn more at fcps.edu.
PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
Choosing a Private School
Public Schools in the City of Alexandria and Fairfax County are good — but different students thrive in different environments.
There are dozens of private and parochial schools in the Alexandria area serving different grades and needs of students and their families.
Organizations like the Virginia Association for Independent Schools (VAIS) and the Private School Review say there are largely five questions that you can use to help evaluate nearby schools and help you narrow down the list of options:
• What type of student is your child, and do they have specific practical or specialized needs?
• How does your child learn best?
• Is a religious school important to your family? Boarding or day school? Single-sex or co-ed?
• How far are you willing (and able) to travel to get your child to school every day?
• How much can you afford to pay in tuition and other costs?
“No two children are the same. Finding the right fit for your child means aligning the school’s mission and values with your own, as well as taking into account the temperament, interests, intellectual ambition and personality of your child as they relate to the school you’re considering,” the Virginia Association for Independent Schools recommends.
You can learn more about your options and find a list of private and parochial schools in the Alexandria area at alexandrialivingmagazine.com/news/ is-private-school-a-good-fit-for-your-child.
Libraries
The Alexandria area has some beautiful libraries that host a variety of interesting events in addition to housing thousands of books.
Whether you’re looking for a new spine-chilling mystery novel, a source for a research paper or just a quiet place to study or work, the library is the perfect place to be. Don’t forget to sign up for a library card! Once you have a library card, you can check out e-books. Learn more at alexlibraryva.org or fairfaxcounty.gov/library.
LIBRARIES IN ALEXANDRIA:
James M. Duncan Branch Library
2501 Commonwealth Ave. 703-746-1705
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library 717 Queen St. 703-746-1703
Charles E. Beatley, Jr. Central Library 5005 Duke St. 703-746-1702
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library 4701 Seminary Rd. 703-746-1704
LIBRARIES IN SOUTHEASTERN FAIRFAX COUNTY:
John Marshall Library 6209 Rose Hill Dr., Alexandria 703-971-0010
Martha Washington Library 6614 Fort Hunt Rd., Alexandria 703-768-6700
Sherwood Regional Library 2501 Sherwood Hall Ln., Alexandria 703-765-3645
Fairfax County Public Library
7001 Little River Tnpk., Annandale 703-256-3800
Thomas Jefferson Library
7415 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church 703-573-1060
Richard Byrd Library 7250 Commerce St., Springfield 703-451-8055
Charles E. Beatley, Jr. Central Library | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
“Mary has gone above and beyond for me over the last eleven years during each of my home buying and selling experiences, and I can’t see myself ever working with anyone else. Her clear knowledge, constant effort, sage advice, and sincere approach always put me at ease throughout each process. Without fail, her negotiating skill got me the results I was looking for. She earned my full trust, and I would wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking to buy or sell a home!”- Jack S. Mary Taylor, Realtor® | 703.785.5619 marytaylor@mcenearney.com | MaryTaylorRealtor.com
Specializing in Small Dogs & Puppies
Pet-Friendly Alexandria
Alexandria is a very pet-centric area, nationally known for its dog-friendly happy hours, accommodations, offices and more. It’s common to see water bowls for dogs outside local businesses, so expect many of your new neighbors to eagerly introduce themselves to your furry friend.
Registering Your Pet in Alexandria
The City of Alexandria requires licenses for all dogs and cats over the age of four months. Owners must license their pets within 30 days of acquiring the pet or moving the pet to the city.
The cost of registering your pet will vary based on its species and whether or not it is spayed or neutered. Multi-year licenses are also available, and will expire the month the pet’s rabies vaccination expires.
You can register your pet online through alexandriaanimals.org/licensing-your-pet. Or, you may send a check and required documentation (vaccination record, spay or neuter documentation if applicable and proof of the pet’s age for senior pet discounts) to:
City of Alexandria Animal Licensing
℅ PetData PO Box 141929 Irving, TX 75014-1929
You can also register your pet in person at the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter at 4101 Eisenhower Ave.
PETS
Registering Your Pet in Fairfax County
Fairfax County also requires registration for all dogs over the age of four months. Similar to the City of Alexandria, pets should be licensed promptly after moving.
Renewal pet registrations can be done online at fairfaxcounty.gov/taxes/ dog-license-information, where residents can also fill out change-of-address information. New registrations should be completed by mail or in person.
The cost in Fairfax County for a dog license is $10. For first-time pet owners or new residents, complete and print the dog license application (available at the website above) and mail a $10 check payable to the County of Fairfax. Include a copy of the pet’s current rabies vaccination and mail the information and check to:
Department of Tax Administration
12000 Government Center Pkwy., Suite 223 Fairfax, VA 22035
Dog licenses can also be purchased in person with the documentation previously noted by visiting 12000
Government Center Parkway, Suite 223 in Fairfax.
There are no breed restrictions on dogs, but there are restrictions on what animals you can keep as pets in our area. Fairfax County just recently started to allow residents to keep hedgehogs as pets, but you must have at least one acre of land to have goats or chickens, for example. Swine are not allowed in the City of Alexandria, and there are strict requirements on other animals, such as chickens and sheep, including acreage requirements and noise ordinances.
It’s really best to check the City of Alexandria and Fairfax County animal codes before bringing home that baby goat or building a chicken coop.
Animal Shelters and Adoption
If you’re looking to foster or adopt a new best friend, there are several wonderful shelters in the area. They all welcome volunteers as well!
PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
Resident’s Guide 78
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is an independent, non-profit organization that facilitates animal adoptions to the entire D.C. metro area. They run the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, 4101 Eisenhower Ave. The AWLA cares for over 2,000 animals a year, including dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, birds and reptiles. Profiles of adoptable pets and other useful information can be found at alexandriaanimals.org.
Fairfax County Animal Shelter is Fairfax County’s only open-access, municipal animal shelter, located on 4500 West Ox Rd., in Fairfax. They care for 4,000 to 5,000 animals a year, including dogs, cats and small animals. Same-day adoptions are available. For more information, visit fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter.
In addition, you may want to look at such organizations at King Street Cats, Lost Dog & Cat Foundation, Homeward Trails or other homeless pet rescue groups. There are many, and giving a pet a new family is often less expensive than dogs from breeders.
Dog Parks
If your dog loves to run around and be social, you’re in luck. Many of Alexandria’s parks include areas where dogs can play. One is guaranteed to be close by!
Westgrove Park 6801 Fort Hunt Rd.
Grist Mill Park 4710 Mt. Vernon Memorial Hwy.
Eugene Simpson Stadium Park 426 East Monroe Ave.
PETS
Fort Ward Park
4301 W. Braddock Rd.
Founders Park
351 N. Union St.
Hooffs Run Park and Greenway
18A E. Linden St.
Monticello Park
320 Beverly Dr.
Mount Jefferson Park and Greenway
300 Hume St.
Tarleton Park
4420 Vermont Ave.
Timberbranch Park
Timberbranch Pkwy.
Windmill Hill Park
501 S. Union St.
Carlyle Dog Park and Tennis Courts
450 Andrews Ln.
Wildlife
As the Alexandria area becomes more densely populated, animal encounters are becoming much more common. If you have a raccoon in your attic or you discover a sick or injured wild animal, call the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria at 703-746-4774 or call Fairfax County Animal Control at 703-691-2131.
In Fairfax County, in addition to Animal Control officers, the Wildlife Rescue League operates a wildlife assistance hotline that provides advice, resources and referrals to licensed wildlife rehabilitators. More information is available at wildliferescueleague.org.
Virginia law prevents animal welfare officers from interfering with animals outside who not ill, injured or presenting a threat to people. More information on the wildlife in our community is available at alexandriaanimals.org/living-withwildlife or at fairfaxcounty.gov/wildlife.
Alexandria Parks & Recreation Centers
Despite an increasing population, the Alexandria area is dedicated to maintaining green space, parks, trails and access to nature.
The City of Alexandria has more than 566 acres of City-owned park land, plus dozens of athletic fields, playgrounds, dog parks and 20 miles of trails. Plus, there are multiple community rec centers, pools, picnic spots and sports courts.
The City of Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities is where to go to reserve spaces for events and gatherings, plus sign up for recreational and educational classes, sports and much more. Visit alexandriava.gov/recreation or call 703-746-4343.
City of Alexandria Parks and Recreation
RECREATION CENTERS:
Charles Barrett Recreation Center 1115 Martha Custis Dr. Alexandria, VA 22305 703-746-5551
Charles Houston Recreation Center 901 Wythe St. Alexandria, VA 22314 703-746-5552
Leonard “Chick” Armstrong Recreation Center 25 West Reed Ave. Alexandria, VA 22305
703-746-5554
Above: Founder’s Park / PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
Mount Vernon Recreation Center
2701 Commonwealth Ave. Alexandria, VA 22305
703-746-5556
Nannie J. Lee Recreation Center
1108 Jefferson St. Alexandria, VA 22314
703-746-5535
Patrick Henry Recreation Center
4653 Taney Ave. Alexandria, VA 22304
703-746-5557
William Ramsay Recreation Center
5650 Sanger Ave. Alexandria, VA 22311
703-746-5558
POPULAR CITY OF ALEXANDRIA
PARKS INCLUDE:
Jones Point Park (1 Jones Point Dr., Alexandria, VA 22314). Jones Point features trails, historic lighthouse, basketball court, community garden plots, canoe/kayak launch, picnic tables, restrooms, water fountains and playground.
Founder’s Park (351 N Union St., Alexandria, VA 22314). An unfenced dog park, views of the water, a sand volleyball pit and other features are here.
Waterfront Park (1 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314). Alexandria’s most popular and one of its newest parks, Waterfront Park includes an Interactive public art installation, picnic areas, a waterfront walkway and more.
Winkler Botanical Preserve (5400 Roanoke Ave., Alexandria VA 22311). With over 44 acres of plants and trees indigenous to the Potomac River Valley, the preserve has a hidden “hobbit house” build into a hillside and finding it is a fun activity for kids. No pets or bicycles allowed.
Ben Brenman Park (4800 Brenman Park Dr., Alexandria, VA 22304). Seasonal farmer’s market, ADA accessible picnic benches and pathways, amphitheater, athletic fields, fenced dog park, parking, picnic pavilion with grill, playground, pond, restrooms and trails.
Fairfax County Parks and Recreation
Fairfax County has more than 23,000 acres of park land throughout the county, including 427 parks and 325 mile of trails. There are also eight golf courses, several nature centers, lakefront parks, historic properties and more.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is reachable at 703-324-8702 (TTY 711) or visit fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
Huntley Meadows | PHOTO BY CHRIS MILITZER
Lee District Rec Center | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
FAIRFAX COUNTY RECREATION CENTERS IN ALEXANDRIA
George Washington RECenter
8426 Old Mount Vernon Rd. Alexandria, VA, 22309
703-780-8894 (TTY 711)
Franconia District RECenter 6601 Telegraph Rd. Alexandria, VA, 22310 703-922-9841 (TTY 711)
Mount Vernon RECenter 2017 Belle View Blvd. Alexandria, VA, 22307
703-768-3224 (TTY 711)
POPULAR FAIRFAX COUNTY PARKS IN ALEXANDRIA INCLUDE:
Huntley Meadows (3701 Lockheed Blvd.). Miles of trails, boardwalk, a nature center,
event shelters, the Historic Huntley House (6918 Harrison Ln.) and much more are in this large park in Southeast Fairfax County.
Fort Hunt Park (National Park Service, 8999 Fort Hunt Rd.). This park includes trails, historic fortifications, restroom facilities, event shelters, a softball field and a playground.
Mount Vernon Trail (National Park Service).
This 18-mile pedestrian/bicycle path that runs along the Potomac River from George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate to Theodore Roosevelt Island in Washington D.C. The trail is popular with bikers and runners.
Pools & Water Parks
The Alexandria area’s public outdoor pools open Memorial Day weekend every year and close shortly after Labor Day.
There’s an indoor, year-round pool at Chinquapin recreation center in the city of Alexandria, and several indoor pools in Fairfax County, as well. Below is a short list of area outdoor pools. For more options, visit alexandriava.gov/aquatics or fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/recenter/ swimming-locations.
Pools
Warwick Pool. The pool complex at 3301 Landover Street includes a six-lane, 25yard lap pool with an accessible ramp entry. Water depths now range from zero to five feet. There is also a bathhouse, lockers and other amenities. 3301 LANDOVER ST., ALEXANDRIA
Memorial Pool at Charles Houston Rec Center. The Memorial Pool at Charles Houston Recreation Center has a beachstyle entry and spray features great for young children and adults who wish to get therapeutic benefits. 901 WYTHE ST.
Old Town Pool. The eight-lane, 25-yard lap pool and diving well and accessible training pool (up to 3 feet) is at 1609 Cameron St. The site also includes a picnic area and tot playground. 1609 CAMERON ST.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Pool. This pool in the Gum Springs neighborhood is operated by the Fairfax County Park Authority and includes two slides and a wading pool for children. Admission is free. 8115 FORDSON RD.
There’s an indoor, year-round pool at Chinquapin recreation center in the city of Alexandria, and several indoor pools in Fairfax County, as well.
Spraygrounds
For children who aren’t swimmers yet or just love running through the sprinkler, there are a few splash parks in our region.
Our Special Harbor Spray Park. The Lee District Rec Center features a fully accessible Chesapeake Bay-themed splash pad for children (and their parents). Aquatic shoes or sandals with a back strap (no flip flops!) are required and can be purchased on site. 6601 TELEGRAPH RD.
Montgomery Park (Potomac Yard Park) Sprayground. The interactive water fountain, located between the two playgrounds, features thirty-six water jets. 2501 POTOMAC AVE.
Waterparks
Great Waves Waterpark. This Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority waterpark at Cameron Run includes several slides, a wave pool and other recreation opportunities (mini golf, batting cages, etc.). 4001 EISENHOWER AVE.; NOVAPARKS.COM/WATERPARKS/ GREAT-WAVES-WATERPARK
Private Pool Clubs
In addition to the pools listed above, there are several neighborhood private pool clubs in Alexandria. Some of these have a waiting list, and most offer more than just a pool with BBQ areas, playgrounds, tennis courts and events. Some have a swim team and private or group instruction for children and adults, as well. Talk to your neighbors for inside information on where they go.
Local Tip
The Northern Virginia Park Authority offers a summer waterparks pass that is valid at Great Waves and several other waterparks in Northern Virginia. It can save you money on admission fees throughout the summer. Learn more at novaparks.com/waterparks/memberships.
Great Waves Waterpark | PHOTO BY BETH LAWTON
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Corner of N. West Street & Madison Street across from Braddock Metro • garage parking & validation available
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