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Why Alexandria, Virginia, Is A Safe, Smart Choice For A Roadtrip Right Now - Forbes

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If you didn’t already know, Alexandria, Virginia has charms aplenty. For starters: the historic city is incredibly walkable, making it easy to cover a lot of ground in just an overnight jaunt or weekend getaway. And the weather this time of year simply can’t be beat. Days are still sun-drenched and balmy, without the oppressive humidity of peak summer – so spending time outdoors is a no-brainer. Alexandria is also packed with over 200 independently-owned businesses, so you can feel good about supporting the local economy. 

Regarding safety: the Alexandria Health Department partnered with Visit Alexandria to develop the ALX Promise program – which far exceeds the state’s requirements for businesses to stay open. (Participating businesses display the ALX Promise shield in their windows, and on their websites.) Hotels, as well, have responded by offering a Flex Getaway Hotel Package. Not only are the rates incredibly competitive, you can receive a full refund if you cancel with 24 hours’ notice. Another thing to keep in mind when visiting? Face masks are a must at indoor public spaces – except when you’re eating and drinking – as is maintaining six feet apart from others when appropriate.

Below, a handy guide on what to do, where to eat (all mentioned spots have outdoor seating), and where to stay in Alexandria. 

What to Do  

Visit Alexandria curated several self-guided walking tours based on interests, but there are several spots you shouldn’t miss – especially if this is your first time in town. Built in 1830 and spanning a mere seven feet wide, Spite House is the narrowest house in the U.S. Learn about the area’s rich maritime history at the tall ship Providence, and immerse yourself in the thought-provoking art installation by Olalekan Jeyifous titled Wrought, Knit, Labors, Legacies at the Waterfront Park. And though most people visit Carlyle House Historic Park for the architecture, the leafy, lush garden behind the stately mansion is a tranquil spot that feels like an insider’s secret.

King Street, and its charming side streets, is where you’ll discover Old Town’s best shopping. Owned by lawyer-turned-entrepreneur Nicole McGrew – she worked for the Obama administration – Threadleaf is a thoughtfully curated shop dedicated to, in McGrew’s words, “fair labor, small supply chains, and craftsmanship.” That means every piece stocked here, from the breezy Cus frocks to the Fog Linen Work socks, not only will look and wear beautifully for years to come – but are kind to the planet, too. 

Since face masks aren’t going away anytime soon, why not wear one that feels and looks good? Donna Lewis, an elegant boutique tucked away in a courtyard on Cameron Street, carries a rotating selection made with eye-catching fabrics. (House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is a fan, and is regularly out-and-about wearing hers.) Even better? For every mask purchased, Donna Lewis donates one Johns Hopkins Hospital staff. 

Opening this Sunday, September 13, Salon MONTE by stylist and reality television star Monte Durham is poised to become the go-to spot for the local style set. Big on style (think British wallpaper, a portrait of Durham’s fashion icon, Jacqueline Kennedy, and vintage crystal chandeliers), the chic salon will be offering a range of services, including bespoke haircuts, color, and makeup by Michelle Obama’s go-to guru, Carl Ray. And for guests’ peace of mind, each station is separated by seven-foot dividers. 

Where to Eat

Oak Steakhouse Alexandria isn’t your ordinary steakhouse. Instead of white tablecloths and a stodgy decor, you’re greeted with a light-flooded space accented with high ceilings, burgundy leather seats, and a bar shaking up spirited cocktails. The menu is also filled with surprises, including a daily ceviche, spring garlic hummus, and sweet-spicy eggplant with chiles and peanuts. Naturally, there’s plenty of beef available, but it’s the signature Oak Prime Steakburger – piled high with crisp veggies, two sauces, and bacon – that you shouldn’t pass up. 

Even though it opened in 2008, Brabo, a French brasserie located at Alexandria's Kimpton Lorien Hotel & Spa, remains as popular as ever. And that’s thanks to Executive Chef Sebastien Rondier’s ability to turn out hearty, approachable French cuisine (think quiche, French onion soup, and duck leg confit) prepared with locally-sourced ingredients in an environment that’s refined, yet relaxed. No matter what you get, a side of the golden, crispy frîtes is a must. 

Wisconsin-born Brandon Byrd started Goodies Frozen Custard & Treats in 2012, to introduce locals to the creamy, frozen dessert he grew up with. Since then, he’s run Goodies with an old-school truck and catering business, but any day now will call Alexandria's historic Ice House home. And if you think custard is anything like soft serve, think again. “Because we add eggs, there’s less air, making it more like gelato,” explains Byrd. “And it’s much more labor intensive, because we double sanitize all our equipment and hand scoop every order.”

Located in the quirky neighborhood of Del Ray, Evening Star Cafe doesn’t offer one, but two outdoor dining options. The Front Porch is the perfect spot to kick back with a casual sip and snack, but if you’re in the mood to linger longer – make a reservation at the recently unveiled Back Yard. Here, you can tuck into chef Jonathan Till’s globe-trotting plates such as Korean fried cauliflower, zoodles and pesto with basil from Evening Star’s rooftop garden, and Kalua pork plate lunch.

Have a hankering for seafood? Hank’s Oyster Bar on King Street has you covered. Celebrating the ocean’s bounty, this casual spot turns out exceptionally pristine raw seafood, alongside crowd-pleasing cooked classics like crab cake sandwiches and lobster rolls. Outdoor seating is available, but if you’re more comfortable dining at home – order a family meal. Available for delivery or to-go, these kits include everything you need to enjoy a traditional lobster dinner or lobster rolls at your convenience. 

Where to Stay

Want to be located in the heart of it all, in close proximity to everything Alexandria has to offer? Then look no further than The Alexandrian. Situated on King Street in Old Town, the property sports a colorful, cheerful decor – the lobby just came off a sparkling renovation – and 241 rooms and suites with plenty of space so you can fully decompress after a day of exploring. And to ensure the safety of both guests and staff, the Marriott Cleanliness Council developed extensive sanitization protocols, which cover everything from food handling to cleaning accommodations with hospital-grade disinfectants.

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Why Alexandria, Virginia, Is A Safe, Smart Choice For A Roadtrip Right Now - Forbes
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