Alexandria City Guide

Seafood like crab cakes is a local must-try. International cuisines are common, with many vegetarian and vegan options.

Nightlife is lively mainly in Old Town with pubs, wine bars, and live music venues.

Strong coffee scene with independent cafés and specialty shops.

Tipping is expected for most services. Restaurants and rideshares typically 15-20%.

SIM cards are available at carrier stores or electronics shops. Verizon and AT&T have best coverage. No ID needed for prepaid SIMs.

City is clean with efficient waste and recycling services, especially in tourist areas.

Some 24-hour pharmacies and convenience stores. Limited 24-hour clinics and food options.

Supermarkets offer international products and are open 7 AM to 10 PM. Bargaining is not common.

Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Cash is useful for small vendors or tipping.

ATMs are easy to find at banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Out-of-network fees usually range from $2.50 to $5.00.

Local public schools mostly teach in English. International schools are nearby in D.C.

Not a major hub, but some remote workers live here and connect through coworking and meetups.

Numerous parks and trails provide good access to green spaces for recreation.

Running routes along the Potomac and city parks are popular and safe. Running clubs exist.

Many gyms and sports facilities, including tennis courts and athletic fields, are available.

Public parks have tennis courts; some require reservations.

Padel courts are rare and mostly found in private clubs in the wider D.C. area.

Multiple yoga studios offer various styles with English-speaking instructors.

Various martial arts schools with drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts are about 1.5-3 hours away in Pennsylvania and Virginia.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing available on the Potomac River with seasonal rentals.

No surfing near Alexandria; closest surfing is on the Atlantic coast several hours away.

No diving or snorkeling near Alexandria due to water conditions.

Hospitals have English-speaking staff. Quality healthcare is available but can be costly without insurance.

Tap water is safe to drink and meets federal and state standards.

Parks and playgrounds are widely available. Many cafés and restaurants welcome kids. Baby supplies are easy to find.

LGBTQ+ friendly with legal protections and welcoming communities.

Pet-friendly city with many parks, pet-friendly spots, and veterinary services.