Alexandria is Open for Business

Within eyesight of Washington, D.C., on the Potomac River waterfront, Alexandria, Virginia, invites overnight visitors and federal workers to enjoy a free Key to the City museum pass during the federal government shutdown. While many major D.C. attractions like the Smithsonian museums are closed, there is still plenty to explore in D.C. and Alexandria is open for business. Visitors are invited to explore Alexandria's neighborhoods including Old Town, the city’s nationally designated historic district, and enjoy a dozen historic sites and attractions, waterfront parks, daily events, and shop and dine at more than 200 independent restaurants and boutiques lining bustling King Street, a walkable mile recognized as one of the “Great Streets” of America.

Minutes from D.C., Alexandria is easily accessible via the King St-Old Town Metrorail station on the yellow and blue lines. The Free King Street Trolley runs between the King St-Old Town Metrorail station and Potomac River waterfront with frequent stops for hopping on and off to enjoy all that Old Town has to offer.

Getting Your Free Key to the City Museum Pass

Overnight visitors and local federal workers can pick up their free Key to the City museum pass (a $44 value) by stopping by the Alexandria Visitor Center. Visitors should show their Alexandria hotel room key and federal workers should show their employee ID for one free pass. The Alexandria Visitor Center is located at 221 King Street and is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. For more information about the Visitor Center, call 703-838-5005. Visitors should check individual museum hours before visiting, as hours of operation vary depending on the season and the site with several closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Deals for Federal Workers

In addition to the offer of a free Key to the City museum pass, federal workers will find a number of Alexandria businesses extending special deals during the shutdown, from free menu offerings at local restaurants to free learn-to-knit classes at fibre space. Find the latest deals for federal workers here.

Virtual Tour

Exploring D.C. During the Shutdown Even during a U.S. government shutdown there’s still lots to explore in D.C.’s neighborhoods and off-the-Mall attractions. Learn More ›

Top 18 Things to Do in Old Town From strolling the King Street mile, one of the “Great Streets” of America, to experiencing history where it happened, see what awaits in Old Town. Learn More ›

Calendar of Events With concert halls, theaters and outdoor spaces, in Alexandria, there’s something on the bill nearly every day. Learn More ›

Getting Here From water taxi to bikeshare, there are plenty of ways to get to Alexandria. Once you’re here, take advantage of the free King Street trolley. Learn More ›

Purchase a Key to the City Museum Pass See history where it happened with our museum pass that offers access to 9 historic sites and more. Unlock History ›

Self-Guided Tours Pace yourself on walking tours of Old Town, driving tours of Alexandria’s African-American historic sites and more. Learn More ›

Alexandria Restaurants Restaurants in Old Town Alexandria offer unforgettable meals in a beautifully historic and walkable setting. Bon Appétit ›

Shopping From independent galleries to stylish boutiques and from vintage shops to national retailers, we’ve got a shop for every interest. Learn more ›

Arts & Culture Nationally recognized as a community with a "backbone of creative culture,” and named a “Top Art Place 2013”, Alexandria maintains its reputation with… Learn more ›

Guided Tours From history and ghost tours to ones that explore Alexandria’s rich African-American history, discover the city’s guided tour offerings. Learn More ›

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