• Alexandria - Our journey begins at Market Square in Old Town Alexandria, founded in 1749 as a port town by the colonial government. This area boasts a rich collection of well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings, including Federal-style homes and a WWI-era munitions plant. Visitors will discover how these architectural styles have been maintained and protected through historic preservation, while capturing some fantastic photos along the way.
• Alexandria Visitors Center - The Ramsay House, the oldest house in Alexandria, serves as the city’s visitor center. Built in the early 1700s by William Ramsay, one of the city’s founders, it is a modest house that originally offered a perfect view of the Potomac River from its second-story balcony.
• Carlyle House - Constructed between 1751 and 1753, Carlyle House was built by John Carlyle, a notable merchant and one of Alexandria’s founding figures. This mansion exemplifies Georgian architecture, with its symmetrical design, brick façade, and classic proportions. The Carlyle family resided here, making it a hub of social and political life in colonial Alexandria.
• Gadsby’s Tavern Museum - The original Gadsby’s Tavern was built in 1785 by John Gadsby, a prominent innkeeper and businessman. Expanded in 1792 to include a ballroom, the tavern is a prime example of Federal-style architecture, featuring a symmetrical design, brick façade, and classical detailing. The interior showcases period furnishings and décor, preserving the ambiance of the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
• Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum - This historic site offers a captivating look into the history of medicine and pharmacy. Initially established by Edward Stabler, a pharmacist who ran the business with his family, it served as a crucial medical resource for the local community, providing medicines, remedies, and medical advice. In the mid-19th century, the Leadbeater family took over, continuing operations until 1933. The museum’s interior retains much of its original design and furnishings, including wooden cabinets, glass jars, and other 19th-century apothecary equipment.
• The Basilica of Saint Mary - Established in 1795, the Basilica of St. Mary, originally St. Mary’s Catholic Church, was the first Roman Catholic parish in the area, playing a significant role in Alexandria’s early Catholic community. Initially housed in a small wooden church, it was replaced by a larger building as the congregation expanded. The current church, constructed between 1810 and 1814 and designed by architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe, is a notable example of Federal-style architecture with a neoclassical design.
• Old Town Waterfront - The tour concludes at Roberdeau Park on the waterfront, named after Danial Roberdeau, one of the founding fathers. He represented Pennsylvania in the Continental Congress and signed the Articles of Confederation, essentially the first draft of the Constitution. Roberdeau also served as a Brigadier General in the Pennsylvania state militia during the war and was active in freemasonry. This final stop brings visitors right to the waterfront.

• All Fees and Taxes
• Professional Tour Guide

Join Preserve Tours for an enlightening stroll through the historic Old Town Alexandria, where a knowledgeable local guide shares insights on the preservation efforts and policies that continue to safeguard this historic district. Discover the charm of Alexandria’s downtown shopping area, the Carlyle House, George Washington’s Townhouse, the Basilica of St. Mary’s, an authentic apothecary, and more, all while capturing memorable photos. Photos are sent via email after the tour.

Mel Serravalle, with a decade of experience in urban planning, founded Preserve Tours to offer curated walking and photo tours that highlight historic neighborhoods and their significance both historically and today. As a fourth-generation Washingtonian, she is dedicated to providing an educational experience that is both informative and enjoyable. A portion of each tour’s proceeds supports the Rosedale Conservancy, a community-funded park in Upper Northwest DC.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.