Alexandria Historic District

The Alexandria Historic District is an 18th and 19th century settlement with over 200 buildings arranged in a grid pattern of streets. The area sits near the Potomac River waterfront and contains residential and commercial structures from that period.

The area was founded in 1748 and grew into a major trading port for tobacco and grain. After the American Civil War, it lost its position as a leading commercial hub.

The district shows Federal design in its brick townhouses that shaped early American architecture. Visitors see these classic facades and floor plans from that era still standing today.

The area is explored on foot, with King Street and South Washington Street being the main shopping streets. You'll find the best walking conditions on the flat, level sidewalks near the river front.

Seven national landmarks sit within the boundaries, including well-preserved warehouse buildings from the trading era. These storage buildings show how commerce worked back then and how important river traffic was.

Location: Alexandria

Inception: 1748

GPS coordinates: 38.80330,-77.04640

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:45