The City of Alexandria is located in Northern Virginia south across the Potomac River from Washington D.C. The city encompasses 15.75 square miles at an average elevation of 30 feet above sea level. Founded in 1749, Alexandria has a fascinating history, and many of its historic buildings are still preserved today.
During its long history, Alexandria was a tobacco trading post, one of the ten busiest ports in America, a part of the District of Columbia, home to both the largest slave-trading firm in the country and a large free-black community, a Civil War supply center for Union troops, and a street-car suburb for Federal workers. Alexandria was also the hometown of George Washington, Robert E. Lee, Jim Morrison and “Mama” Cass Elliot. On the Potomac River within eyesight of Washington, DC, Alexandria, VA is nationally recognized for its rich history and beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture – an extraordinary backdrop for acclaimed, chef-driven restaurants; a thriving boutique scene; vibrant arts and culture; and a welcoming, walkable lifestyle. Alexandria is the relaxed and refined home base for your DC vacation and an unforgettable getaway of its own. Located at 301 King Street, Alexandria City Hall was erected on the site designated for the market and city hall when Alexandria was founded in 1749. The tall, steepled tower, which contrasts with the building’s Second Empire-style massing and detailing, is a reconstruction of a tower designed by Benjamin H. Latrobe that was part of Alexandria’s 1817 town hall. That hall burned in 1871, necessitating the construction of the current building, designed by Adolph Cluss, a locally prominent architect who had designed the U.S. Department of Agriculture building in 1869 and Washington’s Central Market in 1870. With more than 250 years of history and hospitality to its credit, Alexandria offers an array of historic and cultural attractions. The Alexandria neighborhoods include Old Town, Del Ray, Carlyle/Eisenhower and West End. Alexandria’s many historic homes, churches, businesses and museums allow residents and visitors alike to experience the hand of the past that makes our city the charming and historic town it is today.