Alexandria’s Waterfront Park sits at the foot of King Street in Old Town, where the city’s historic main street meets the Potomac River. Named one of the Best River Walks in the USA by Fodor’s Travel, the waterfront area offers both on-the-water adventures and along-the-shore experiences. Board a City Cruises water taxi or river cruise for scenic trips to The Wharf, Navy Yard, Georgetown, National Harbor and Mount Vernon, or stay on land to explore waterfront parks, public art, al fresco dining and live street performances. The Mount Vernon Trail runs along the riverfront for walkers, runners and cyclists looking to extend their time by the water.
Waterfront Highlights
Alexandria’s iconic Potomac River waterfront is rich with year-round activities. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the view from a restaurant’s dining table, stroll through a riverfront park or get out on the water yourself, here are some must-try waterfront experiences.
Activities on the Potomac
Let Alexandria be your starting point for exploring the Potomac River and accessing nearby attractions from George Washington’s Mount Vernon to National Harbor and Washington D.C.
Board the Water Taxi
On the Potomac River, within sight of Washington, DC, Alexandria’s marina offers stunning views and convenient access to premier transportation to and from the city. Take the scenic route on board the City Cruises water taxi from the Alexandria Marina straight to The Wharf, Georgetown and National Harbor.
Waterfront Parks, Walks & Trails
Alexandria’s abundant green spaces make it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Take in iconic scenery by foot or by bike along the Mount Vernon Trail, set up a picnic in Founders Park or rent a kayak or paddleboard to see the city from a different perspective.
Browse All Waterfront Restaurants & Activities
Browse the directory below to explore Alexandria’s waterfront dining, boat cruises and attractions. From riverside restaurants and dockside bars to sightseeing cruises on the Potomac, everything you need to plan your waterfront visit is here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Alexandria waterfront, and how do I get there from King Street or the Metro?
Alexandria’s waterfront sits at the eastern end of King Street in Old Town, where the city’s historic main street meets the Potomac River. From the King Street–Old Town Metrorail station, walk the mile-long King Street corridor or ride the free King Street Trolley. The closest trolley stop to the waterfront is near City Hall/Market Square, which is just a short walk from Waterfront Park and the marina.
Where do Alexandria water taxis depart, and which destinations do they serve?
City Cruises operates water taxi service from Alexandria’s waterfront marina at the foot of King Street, with routes to The Wharf, Georgetown, National Harbor and Mount Vernon. Schedules and tickets vary seasonally. Visit citycruises.com for current information.
Which Alexandria waterfront activities require tickets or advance reservations?
Water taxi and sightseeing cruises through City Cruises require tickets and should be booked in advance during peak season. Waterfront parks, public art and walking the waterfront are all free with no reservations needed. Waterfront restaurants are strongly encouraged to book in advance, especially on weekends.
Can visitors walk or bike along the Alexandria waterfront?
Yes! The waterfront is fully walkable, with a continuous path connecting Waterfront Park to riverfront parks stretching from Founders Park to Jones Point. The Mount Vernon Trail runs along the Potomac and is open to walkers and cyclists. Cyclists should yield to pedestrians in slow zones along parts of the waterfront.
Which waterfront activities are available year-round, and which are seasonal?
Waterfront Park, the walking path, waterfront restaurants and the Torpedo Factory Art Center are open year-round. Water taxi and sightseeing cruise service operates seasonally. Check current schedules at citycruises.com before your visit.
Where can visitors park near the Alexandria waterfront?
The Courthouse Square Garage at 111 S. Pitt Street offers reduced rates on evenings and weekends. The Strand Parking Lot on the 500 block of North Union Street is located directly near Waterfront Park. Street meters are free on Sundays and state holidays. Note that the Market Square Garage is temporarily closed during the City Hall renovation. Visit our parking page for a full map.
Is the Alexandria waterfront accessible for visitors using wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes. The waterfront features paved walking paths. The Torpedo Factory Art Center has an accessible entrance on Union Street. Public parking garages near the waterfront provide ADA-accessible spaces. Visit our Accessible Travel page for more information.
