Alexandria Virginia’s 12 Best Tours

Alexandria, Virginia, is a city full of stories, architecture, and charm. Located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., it offers a mix of history, food, and a lively waterfront. What makes Alexandria stand out is its well-preserved 18th-century buildings, the connection to George Washington, and its vibrant neighborhoods. We love how many tours allow you to experience this city’s past and present firsthand. Whether you’re interested in walking through historic homes, exploring ghostly tales, or biking along scenic trails, Alexandria offers something for every type of traveler. For example, the Discover Alexandria: Historic Homes, Churches, and Taverns is perfect for those who want an authentic walk through history, while the Old Town Alexandria: Southern Comfort Food & History Tour combines delicious bites with storytelling.

Quick Overview

This list features a variety of guided walking tours, ghost walks, bike rentals and tours, and specialized experiences. From immersive history walks to spooky night adventures, each offers a unique way to explore Alexandria’s rich character. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking a more in-depth cultural experience, there’s a tour here for you.

1. Discover Alexandria: Historic Homes, Churches, and Taverns!

At number 1, the Discover Alexandria: Historic Homes, Churches, and Taverns offers an engaging 1.5-hour walk for just $30 per person. This tour shines because it takes you through Old Town’s lesser-known corners, revealing homes and churches that pre-date the Revolutionary War. The guide will point out the significance of early taverns, many of which hosted discussions that shaped American history. Walking through George Washington’s neighborhood, you’ll connect the dots between the past and the present, getting “aha” moments about Alexandria’s role in early America. The intimate size and knowledgeable guide make this a great choice for history lovers who want authentic stories in a relaxed setting. Expect to see architecture from the 1700s and learn about tavern culture that helped build a nation.

Bottom line: if you want a budget-friendly, fact-filled walk that links the local history to the national story, this tour is a winner.

2. Alexandria: American Revolution Guided Walking Tour

For around $30, the Alexandria: American Revolution Guided Walking Tour provides a focused dive into the roots of American independence. This 1.5-hour experience highlights the location where the Revolution was born—a historic stone house in Old Town. The guide details how Alexandria’s Patriots lived, worked, and worshipped, illuminating the local contributions to the fight for liberty. It’s especially compelling to see where George Washington declared his opposition to British rule and where the city passed its own revolutionary document. This tour appeals to those who want a deeper understanding of the Patriot cause and enjoy stories about the people behind the independence movement. Plus, the reviews are strongly positive, praising the guide’s storytelling and the compact, well-paced history.

Bottom line: perfect if you’re eager to explore the revolutionary roots of Alexandria and want a concise, well-informed walk.

3. Old Town Alexandria: Southern Comfort Food & History Tour

Taste and learn on the Old Town Alexandria: Southern Comfort Food & History Tour. Over 3 hours and for $127, you’ll visit several local restaurants to sample carefully selected Southern dishes. Along the way, you’ll explore the charming streets of Old Town, discovering its historic buildings and stories of the Revolutionary War and Civil Rights Movement. This tour is perfect for food lovers who want a narrative backdrop to their bites, with insights into how Alexandria’s culinary traditions evolved. The guide’s storytelling enriches the tasting experience, making it a fun and immersive way to see the city. While more expensive, the quality of food and local history makes this a good value for a multi-sensory experience.

Bottom line: if you enjoy combining food with history and want a longer, more relaxed outing, this tour is a top pick.

4. Alexandria: Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour

Number 4 on our list is the Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour. For $30 and 75 minutes, this tour takes you through Alexandria’s haunted spots after dark. It’s a great pick for those who love spooky stories, with tales of the Female Stranger haunting Gadsby’s Tavern and the spirits lurking in Wilkes Tunnel. The guide shares chilling stories of the hotel’s ghosts and other local legends, making it both fun and a little creepy. The tour’s short duration makes it manageable for most evening schedules. It’s highly rated for its storytelling and atmosphere, especially if you’re interested in the darker side of Alexandria’s history.

Bottom line: ideal for thrill-seekers and fans of ghost stories, or anyone looking for a spooky night adventure.

5. Alexandria: Walking Through George Washington’s Alexandria

This 1.5-hour walk, priced at $30, is a deep dive into George Washington’s hometown. Walking Through George Washington’s Alexandria takes you through his neighborhood, highlighting where he ate, slept, and worshipped. The guide shares stories of Washington’s life milestones and how Alexandria played a role in his stories. You’ll discover the taverns where Washington celebrated and learn about his close ties to the city. This tour is perfect for history buffs who want to see the places Washington himself knew and explore his personal connections to Alexandria.

Bottom line: a must-do for fans of Washington wanting a personal look at his hometown’s influence on his life.

6. Semi-Private Walking Tour Old Town Alexandria & Carlyle

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the Semi-Private Walking Tour Old Town Alexandria & Carlyle offers a 2-hour guided visit for $69. This tour includes reserved access to the Carlyle House, a beautiful 18th-century mansion once home to one of Alexandria’s founders. The host provides insights into Alexandria’s evolution from the Revolution through the Civil War to today. With a small group size, you’ll get personalized attention and a more intimate look at the city’s layered history. The tour is perfect if you want in-depth knowledge and exclusive access to key historic sites.

Bottom line: best suited for history enthusiasts wanting a deeper, more personalized tour experience.

7. Alexandria Ghosts: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl

Combine history and nightlife on the Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl. For $30 and around 2 hours, you’ll visit historic taverns while hearing stories of Revolutionary heroes, vengeful spirits, and local legends. The tour features tales of the Scottish tradition that saved Carlyle House from evil spirits and the mystery of the “female stranger” at Gadsby’s Tavern. This lively tour mixes storytelling with a fun pub crawl experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed social vibe with a spooky twist. The guide’s engaging storytelling adds to the atmosphere, and the group setting creates a lively night out.

Bottom line: a great option if you want a spirited evening combining history, stories, and a drink or two.

8. Alexandria: Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat

Number 8 is the Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon. For $68, you get a self-guided adventure exploring George Washington’s estate along the scenic Mount Vernon Trail. You can choose to bike back or upgrade to a boat cruise along the Potomac River for a different perspective. The tour offers plenty of time to explore the grounds, including the gardens and farms, with an audio guide enhancing the experience. It’s a flexible, active option perfect for those who enjoy cycling and want to see the plantation at their own pace. The reviews note the value in the combination of biking and optional boat ride.

Bottom line: suited for active travelers interested in history and who like customizing their day with biking and possibly a boat ride.

9. Alexandria, VA: Bike Rentals

If you prefer exploring at your own pace, Bike Rentals offer a scenic way to see Alexandria. Costing just $21 for a full day, the rental allows you to cruise the brick-lined streets and trails, including routes to Mount Vernon or D.C. The bikes are well-rated, and the freedom to create your itinerary makes this a flexible, budget-friendly option. It’s perfect for independent travelers who want to soak in the sights without a guided schedule.

Bottom line: a simple, cost-effective way to explore Alexandria’s historic streets and nearby attractions.

10. Alexandria & Mt Vernon Tour

For a guided experience combining city and estate, the Alexandria & Mt Vernon Tour is ideal. At $99, this 3-hour bus trip includes a scenic drive along the George Washington Memorial Parkway to Mount Vernon and a stop in Old Alexandria. You’ll see landmarks like the George Washington Masonic Temple and enjoy a narrated drive that connects the dots between Washington’s life and Alexandria’s role in American history. This tour works well for travelers who want an overview without the physical effort of biking or walking all day.

Bottom line: suitable for those who prefer a comprehensive, guided overview of Washington’s estate and the city’s highlights.

11. Alexandria: Old Town E-Bike Rental

For a more effortless exploration, the Old Town E-Bike Rental offers a fun way to see many sites at your own pace. For $42, you get a 2-hour or full-day e-bike rental, perfect for cruising through Old Town’s historic streets. The electric assist makes covering more ground easier, especially if you want to visit multiple neighborhoods or venture toward Mount Vernon. It’s highly recommended for active travelers who prefer flexibility and a bit of technological help.

Bottom line: a great way to see Alexandria’s highlights on your own schedule, especially if you want to go further afield with less effort.

12. Old Town Alexandria: Guided Walking Tour with a Local

Finally, the Old Town Alexandria: Guided Walking Tour with a Local provides a personal touch. For $39 over 2 hours, a local guide will lead you through the town’s streets, sharing stories about Robert E. Lee’s childhood, the smallest house in the DC area, and the pre-Revolutionary church where Washington worshipped. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a tailored, personable experience with local insights, especially if you prefer walking and small groups.

Bottom line: best for those who want an authentic, personal introduction to Alexandria’s history and landmarks.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interest level, and physical activity preferences. If you’re really into American history, tours focusing on Washington, the Revolution, or the Civil War—like the Walking Through George Washington’s Alexandria or the Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon—are excellent. For those who love food and culture, the Southern Comfort Food & History Tour provides tasty insights. If you prefer a spooky night or ghost stories, the ghost walks are fun, especially the Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour. Active travelers might enjoy biking, with options like the Bike to Mount Vernon or e-bike rentals.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons like spring and fall, when Alexandria’s charm draws more visitors.

In summary, Alexandria offers a wide spectrum of tours that appeal to history buffs, foodies, ghost enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers alike. Whether you want a laid-back walk through George Washington’s neighborhood, a spooky ghost tour, or a scenic bike ride to Mount Vernon, you’ll find something that fits your style. Consider your interests, fitness level, and budget, then pick the tour that excites you most—and don’t forget to book in advance for the best experience.