A walking tour is a great way to explore Old Town Alexandria

When visiting a destination, one of the best ways to really get to know a city is

to take advantage of a walking tour. Bus tours are good, however, hitting the pavement really gives a unique opportunity to see landmarks up close and really get a feel of history through firsthand experience.

Alexandria, Va., a wonderful historical city located just outside of Washington D.C., offers a number of walking tours. 

Alexandria's Footsteps to the Past

This company was started by a native Alexandrian who is a local historian and whose family has lived in Virginia for nine generations. The tours cover important landmarks, as well as the little-known facts and locations which aren't as publicized. Daytime tours and evening ghost tours are offered.

The latter is a great option for those who are interested in learning history. It's sprinkled with tales of chilling events or paranormal activity. The tour is usually given by a historian dressed up in Colonial-era era garb and these outings are not only interesting, but very knowledgeable and entertaining too. 

This company also offers several special tours, if you visit their website, you can learn more about the many aspects of history the guides cover through these specially designed visitor tours.

Old Town Experience

 

This tour focuses on the history and architecture of Old Town Alexandria and the duration of the walking tour is about an hour.  During the walk, the guide highlights the city's architecture, historical landmarks, folklore and talks about Alexandria's famous residents. See their website for tour days and times. Additionally, if you are interested in Alexandria's famous people, museums, and related history, there are customized tours can be made by appointment.

Alexandria Colonial Tours

 

This company offers a neat ghost tour. The guide is dressed up in 18th-century attire and leads tour groups by lantern. As you walk Alexandria's streets in the evening you'll be treated to hearing interesting facts about history, unsolved mysteries, spooky tales, legends and some romantic tales of an era gone by. If you visit the company's website, you can find out more about what kinds of tours they offer.

 

Self-guided tours

If an organized tour doesn't appeal to you, there is always the option of creating your own walking tour and guide yourself through Old Town's landmarks. Stop by the Ramsay House Visitors Center, located at  221 King Street, grab a map

Lee-Fendall House

 and plot your own walking tour destination or visit Alexandria's official website for ideas.

Alexandria's walking tours are a great way to get up close and personal to connect with the rich history of the city. Exploring the city of Alexandria on foot, either through a guided tour or on your own, is an experience you won't regret. 

Truly, Old Town is up there as one of my favorite places in Virginia.