My Old Town Alexandria Staycation Guide
I’m all about a staycation, especially one that involves my husband and two rescue mutts. Sometimes its just nice to get out of the house, away from the gazillion projects you have in front of you and the list of chores you haven’t gotten to either. No need to stress about the laundry that needs to be folded or the lawn that has to be mowed, instead it’s all about spending quality time together.
After being on the road and away from our pups for most of the summer, we were stoked to check in to the brand new Hotel Indigo in Old Town Alexandria with our fur children. We had heard amazing things about the new hotel and we had been dying to check it out and it exceeded our expectations and then some. From the moment we set foot in the door to the time we left, we were treated with the upmost care. The staff was super helpful, kind, and attentive. Our room was impeccably designed and the views of the water front weren’t half bad either.
After we settled in and Hank made himself at home and we quickly headed out to start exploring Old Town. After exploring during our staycation and on our own (we live only 10 mins away) here are some tips on how to navigate Old Town during your next visit or staycation!
Stay
Hotel Indigo
There are do many cute hotels in Old Town Alexandria but none with a view quite like Hotel Indigo’s. Located at 220 South Union Street, Alexandria, Virginia, the hotel will be Alexandria’s first waterfront hotel, delivering a stylish, local experience informed by the city’s picturesque waterfront and paying homage to its maritime roots.
During construction of Hotel Indigo, archeologists discovered the remnants of an 18th-century ship along the historic waterfront. As you can imagine, it held up construction a bit but super cool that they were able to excavate the remains for research and now the ship is in the hands of Texas A&M for further research and studies.
Besides the history in the soil, the attentive staff and the epic waterfront views, the rooms are absolutely stunning. The decor is well thought out and fully equipped with plush bedding, spa like bathrooms and floor to ceiling windows. Hank and Blanqui felt right at home. When we returned home from our day of exploring, we had our favorite snacks waiting for us in our room. The attention to detail at The Hotel Indigo is on point!
Sailing
Exploring Old Town by foot is a great way to see the cute city but have you ever tried seeing it from water? It’s an entirely different experience. We were lucky enough to score a private sailing lesson with George of Mariner Sailing School and our experience was incredible. Probably one of my husband and I’s top 5 experiences here in the DC area. We spent two hours on the water learning the basics of sailing and enjoying the absolutely gorgeous day we had. This was our first time sailing and I can guarantee this won’t be our last. My husband is already begging me to go back out for more lessons with George!
Shopping
Coco Blanca: If you are in the mood to do some shopping, Old Town Alexandria is the place for it! As soon as you step outside of Hotel Indigo, Coco Blanca is immediately on your right, you really can’t miss it. They have the best selection of home decor, gifts and fashion all in shades of white and beachy neutrals. I highly recommend stopping by when you are in town!
Shoe Hive: If you have a shoe fetish like I do, Shoe Hive is the shop for you. They have the best selection in all of Old Town and they also just recently opened up their clothing store, The Hive. So once you are done picking out your shoes, head over to The Hive to finish your head to toe look.
TSALT: I am absolutely in love with TSALT. If you love designer denim or discovering new designer collections, this place needs to be on your list. They introduced me to my favorite new blazer brand, Smythe. OMG these blazers fit like a charm! Pop in and they will help you update your fall wardrobe!
Dinner
Hummingbird: Located inside of Hotel Indigo, this carefully laid out restaurant is just what you need after a long day of exploring. Order a bottle of wine and fresh oysters and you won’t be disappointed. Their Sunday brunch also features a waterfront raw bar and a classic cocktail menu crafted by renowned local mixologist Todd Thrasher.
Black Wall Hitch: This restaurant sits on the waterfront and boasts some of the most epic views in Old Town. The seafood is absolutely amazing, so this has been a go-to of ours since it opened last year. A must-try for sure! Also great for large parties and events.
Virtue Feed & Grain: Great drinks, great menu, this place is right next door to Hotel Indigo. If you are looking for a nice meal with great ambiance and you don’t want to walk far, this is the place for you!
Drinks
PX: If you love cocktails and a speak easy vibe, then this cute little cocktail bar is for you. Be sure to call ahead for reservations because it fills up quickly and they only take a certain amount of guests per night. You can always try to swing by (look for the blue light as it’s not marked) and knock on the door and you might just be lucky enough to get in! This is another brain child created by Todd Thrasher, so you know it won’t dissapoint.
Captain Gregory’s: Another speak easy-esque cocktail lounge that is hidden behind the wall in Sugar Shack Donuts. They specialize in hand crafted cocktails, small plates with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients. If you appreciate a good cocktail, you won’t want to miss this spot!
Coffee
Mischa’s: Starbucks might be right next door to Hotel Indigo but if you really want to blend in with the locals, then you have to go to Mischa’s for your morning coffee. They serve up some of the best around.
Killer ESP: Which is short for Espresso, Sorbet, Pie. Yeah, you know this place can’t be bad. They serve Stumptown coffee and pies by a local DC favorite, Dangerously Delicious and both are out of this world. The sorbet is made in house and will completely change the way you think about ice cream. The stuff is that GOOD!
Need help planning your next trip to Old Town Alexandria? Hank can help! Comment below or feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] for more of our suggestions!
xo
Sarah
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