Alexandria, Virginia, is a bike-friendly city that offers a perfect mix of historic charm, scenic river views, and lively neighborhoods. Its compact size and well-maintained trails make it an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts and casual riders alike. What sets Alexandria apart is its blend of cultural attractions and natural beauty, all easily accessible by bike. Among the options, we particularly like the full-day bike tour to Mount Vernon for its immersive experience and the chance to combine cycling with a boat cruise, giving you a full day immersed in history and scenery. If you’re after a more flexible, budget-friendly way to explore, the bike rentals are a fantastic way to discover at your own pace, whether you’re up for a quick ride or a whole day of exploration. For those who prefer pedaling with extra help, the E-bike rental offers a fun and effortless way to see Alexandria’s sights without breaking a sweat.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover three top bike experiences. The Full-Day Bike Tour to Mount Vernon with Optional Boat combines history, scenic trails, and a boat cruise, offering a comprehensive adventure. The Bike Rentals are perfect if you want the freedom to explore Alexandria or Mount Vernon on your own schedule. Finally, the Old Town E-Bike Rental provides a quick, fun way to cover more ground effortlessly, ideal for a laid-back day of sightseeing.
1. Alexandria: Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat
For around $68, this self-guided full-day bike tour takes you from Alexandria along the beautiful Mount Vernon Trail to George Washington’s estate. The tour includes the chance to wander through the grounds of America’s 1st president’s home, with an audio guide providing insights into the gardens, farms, and historic buildings of the plantation. The highlight is the option to upgrade and cruise back to Washington D.C. along the Potomac River by boat, adding a relaxing water experience to your historical journey. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a flexible schedule and want to soak in both history and nature at their own pace.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of self-guided freedom, scenic trails, and the option for a boat cruise. The 7.5-hour duration allows plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. Reviewing the 49 reviews, many appreciate the autonomy and the chance to customize their day, though some mention the price is slightly on the higher side for a guided experience. The online ticketing for the mansion’s interior is a convenient touch, making it easy to access Washington’s historic home.
Bottom line: This tour suits history buffs and outdoor lovers who want a full day of biking, with the flexibility to add a boat ride for a memorable finish.
$68 per person
2. Alexandria, VA: Bike Rentals
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, the Bike Rentals in Alexandria, VA are a flexible and affordable choice. Starting at just $21 for a full day, you can explore Alexandria’s cobblestone streets, historic districts, and scenic waterfront whenever it suits you. The rentals give you access to miles of bike trails, including routes that lead toward Mount Vernon or even toward Washington D.C. For shorter trips, options range from 2 hours to full-day rentals, making it easy to tailor your adventure.
What makes these rentals appealing is their simplicity and the freedom they offer. You can cycle through Old Town’s charming neighborhoods, admire the well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture, or enjoy a leisurely ride along the Potomac River. Many users praise the ease of renting and returning bikes, plus the bikes’ comfort and reliability. Since no guided component is involved, this is best suited for independent travelers who are confident navigating on their own.
Bottom line: If you want to create your own itinerary and explore Alexandria or Mount Vernon at your leisure, these rentals are excellent value with the convenience of a full day to enjoy.
3. Alexandria: Old Town E-Bike Rental
For around $42, you can zoom around Alexandria on a state-of-the-art E-bike, making sightseeing effortless. This option is perfect if you want to cover many sights without tiring yourself out or if you’re visiting during hot summer months. The Old Town E-Bike Rental allows you to choose your own itinerary, which means you can focus on landmarks, parks, or neighborhoods that catch your eye.
The main advantage of this tour is the ease of pedaling—you get a little boost from the electric motor, making hills and longer distances manageable for most fitness levels. Many riders enjoy the flexibility to take their time, stopping at key landmarks and exploring local cafes along the way. The 2-hour option is great for a quick loop, while a full day on the e-bike lets you really soak in Alexandria’s ambiance. Reviewers often mention how fun and liberating it is to cycle with minimal effort, especially when you want to see a lot in a short time.
Bottom line: This is ideal for visitors who want a fun way to see Alexandria’s main sights without exerting too much energy, or for those who prefer a quicker ride around town.
$42 per person
How to Choose the Right Bike Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and fitness level. The full-day Mount Vernon tour is best if you love history and want a comprehensive experience, including the option for a boat cruise. If you prefer total independence, the bike rentals give you the freedom to explore on your schedule. The E-bike rental offers an easy, fast way to cover lots of ground with minimal effort, making it great for a relaxed day.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best bikes and times. For a full day of adventure, the Mount Vernon tour is a good value considering it includes both a scenic ride and optional boat cruise. If you’re tight on time or prefer flexibility, rentals—either traditional or e-bike—are your best bet.
In summary, Alexandria offers a range of bike tours and rentals suited to different interests and schedules. The full-day Mount Vernon tour combines history, scenery, and relaxation, ideal for those wanting a structured yet flexible experience. The bike rentals are perfect for independent explorers who want to craft their own day, and the E-bike option provides a fun, effortless way to see the sights quickly. No matter which you choose, cycling in Alexandria is a practical way to enjoy this charming city’s unique blend of history and waterfront scenery. Be sure to book early and enjoy your ride through one of Northern Virginia’s most captivating towns.