Here at Debbie Dogrul Associates, we’ve always known that Alexandria, Virginia, is a special place. But it’s always exciting when the rest of the country takes notice! Travel & Leisure magazine recently named Alexandria as #5 on the top 15 favorite cities in the U.S. and the #2 best place to live on the East Coast. This isn’t a surprise to anyone who lives here. From its cobblestone streets to its bustling waterfront, Alexandria offers a lifestyle that is both elegant and energetic. Let’s take a look at what makes this city so beloved, exploring the history that shapes its character, the attractions that captivate visitors, and the community that makes it a perfect place to call home.

The Allure of a Historic City

Alexandria’s story began long before the United States was founded. Established in 1749, the city was the adopted hometown of George Washington. Today, walking through Old Town is like stepping into a living museum, where preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture tells tales of a bygone era. Sites like the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum feel like they're straight out of a storybook, while the Alexandria Black History Museum and the Freedom House Museum honor the city's more complex past with powerful stories.

This history isn’t just in the past; it's an integral part of daily life. The heart of Alexandria is undoubtedly Old Town, a nationally designated historic district. While its red brick sidewalks and meticulously maintained homes are stunning, what truly sets it apart is the energy that flows from King Street to the Potomac River waterfront.

King Street is a shopper's paradise, lined with over 200 independent boutiques, shops, and art galleries. The waterfront, once a bustling colonial port, is now a vibrant hub for recreation. You can enjoy a delicious meal with a view of the river or take a scenic boat tour to the D.C. Wharf or even George Washington's historic Mount Vernon.

A Mosaic of Vibrant Neighborhoods

Alexandria is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm. While Old Town provides a quintessential historic experience, other areas offer a different kind of appeal.

• Del Ray: Known as "Alexandria's Main Street," this neighborhood has a community-driven, small-town feel. Its lively Mount Vernon Avenue is home to popular eateries, unique shops, and seasonal festivals that bring the community together.
• The West End: A haven for food and drink lovers, this area boasts an award-winning craft brewery scene and critically acclaimed international dining, especially for Ethiopian cuisine.
• Carlyle & Eisenhower: As an economic engine of the city, this hub offers a modern, urban feel with easy access to the Metro. It’s where you’ll find the National Inventors Hall of Fame and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
• Potomac Yard: This emerging and vibrant mixed-use community is attracting new residents with its Metro stop and the new Virginia Tech campus, offering a modern, sustainable lifestyle.

A Culinary and Cultural Powerhouse

For food lovers, Alexandria is a dream come true with a nationally recognized culinary scene. The options are endless, from classic American taverns to modern riverfront restaurants serving everything from authentic Ethiopian cuisine to fresh seafood.

The arts scene is just as impressive. The Torpedo Factory Art Center, a former World War II munitions factory, is now home to the largest collection of working artist studios in the nation. With more than 80 artists, seven galleries, and two workshops, you can watch painters, jewelers, and sculptors create their art in real time.

A Community That Celebrates Together

What truly makes Alexandria a top-ranked city is its strong sense of community. Residents come together throughout the year for signature events, from the annual George Washington Birthday Parade—the largest and oldest of its kind—to the festive Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. Other events like the Alexandria Festival of the Arts and the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights ensure there's always something to look forward to.

This vibrant spirit extends to everyday life. The city is famously pet-friendly, with numerous dog parks and businesses that welcome four-legged friends. Its walkability and abundant parks make it easy for residents to connect with their neighbors and enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle.

Your Guide to a Top-Ranked City

For those considering a move, living in Alexandria means so much more than a street address. It means having a lifestyle that combines rich history, unparalleled culture, and a welcoming community. The city’s strategic location, just six miles from Washington, D.C., with excellent access to Metro and major highways, makes it an ideal place for professionals and families alike.

With a wide variety of housing options—from the iconic colonial townhouses of Old Town to the modern high-rises in Carlyle and spacious family homes in Rosemont—there’s something for everyone. This recent ranking by Travel & Leisure magazine simply confirms what we’ve known all along: Alexandria is truly one of the best. If you're considering a move to this extraordinary area, let the local experts at Debbie Dogrul Associates guide you. We'll help you find the perfect home in a city that’s not just a place to live, but a place to love.

Sources:

• Travel & Leisure (https://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best-awards-2025-cities-us-11740107, https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-places-to-live-on-the-east-coast-11811943)
• Visit Alexandria (https://visitalexandria.com/)
• City of Alexandria (https://www.alexandriava.gov/AboutAlexandria)
• Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (https://alexandriaecon.org/why-alexandria/submarkets/)