Walk the streets of Old Town, Alexandria, VA, before dawn, and you just might think you were in the 18th Century. Sniff the salty air and follow it to the end of King Street to take in a wide expanse of the Potomac River. Live in the historic district in converted condos for sale and rent, within walking distance in new transitional-designs blending with the Colonial and Federalist period homes, or outside its boundaries in the City of Alexandria itself with its abundance of large complexes and skyscrapers. The highest floors offer views to the Virginia countryside, DC monuments or Potomac River. Condos for rent, long-term, or for vacation accommodations are an ideal option for living in a community that's practically right around the corner from Washington, DC, with a waterfront packed with outdoor recreational activities, nightclubs, restaurants, arts galleries and historic sites fun for visitors and residents of any age. Zip up from one of four Metro subway stations directly to Washington, DC's Georgetown, Chinatown or L’Enfant Plaza and its government agencies. Or, stop at Pentagon City or Crystal City for renowned shopping. Work for education, trade associations, government contractors or the Pentagon. On lazy days, bike, walk or drive up George Washington Parkway, which connects to Old Town. Sail from the marina or dine amidst panoramic water views of the River and DC skyline. Or, maybe you'll like watching planes take off or land from Washington's National Airport. An easy tree-lined drive south on the Parkway takes you to Mt. Vernon, home of George Washington and an ideal picnic spot alongside its picturesque view of the Potomac. Alexandria's revered neighborhoods also include funky Del Ray and the West End. Old Town is high-income though relatively affordable condos are for sale and rent. The City of Alexandria is an economic mix. Throughout you'll find ethnic enclaves and their treasures. Festivals abound throughout Alexandria with something for every taste whether it be the Spring Arts and Crafts Show, Memorial Day Jazz Festival, African American Cultural and Heritage Festival, Comcast Outdoor Film Festival, Cambodian Festival, American Indian Festival or St. Patrick's Day Parade. No matter where you live in Alexandria or the DC area, Old Town will be a desired destination. Walk weekends by the water on King Street when sections are roped off for pedestrians. Drop in to colorful boutiques to buy unique jewelry and gifts. Dine outside street-level or on balconies covered with flowers, greenery and tiny white lights year-round. Grab a sandwich at a gourmet grocer, perhaps organic, and mosey down to the waterfront to sit and watch the boats go by. Or, charter one for a tour of the River. Old Town is especially loved for its Torpedo Factory Arts Center. Built in 1918, the Factory manufactured and stored torpedoes through World War II. Now, the multi-level structure houses more than 80 artist studios where you can watch painters, sculptures, crafters and more create wares on display, most for sale. Take classes there as you gaze out the windows over the river. Or, visit the Alexandria Archaeology Museum. Go outside to the adjacent food court or watch jugglers and pet performers on weekends. Summertime, enjoy the American Red Cross Waterfront Festival. Come nightfall, listen to music in the streets or at a variety of clubs. Club-hop and you can get a taste of the music of several countries just bopping back-and-forth on the street. |
