Private History of Old Town Alexandria Walking Tour

Discover the captivating history of Old Town Alexandria through a private walking tour that delves into its Civil War past. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this 90-minute exploration uncovers the iconic sites and untold stories that shaped this vibrant community during the war. From Carlyle House to Gadsby’s Tavern, you’ll gain insights into the struggles of doctors and nurses, while uncovering the lasting impact of the conflict on this historic town. Prepare to be immersed in a rich tapestry of the past, as you stroll through the very streets that witnessed pivotal moments in American history.

Key Points

• The 90-minute walking tour explores Civil War-era historic sites in Old Town Alexandria, including Carlyle House, Christ Church, and Gadsby’s Tavern.
• The tour highlights the struggles faced by doctors and nurses during the Civil War and the transformation of the Torpedo Factory from a munitions plant to an art center.
• The tour is priced at $275 per group (up to 15 people) and departs from 221 King St, Alexandria, VA.
• The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with service animals allowed, but is not recommended for those with serious medical conditions.
• The tour is led by a professional guide and includes gratuities, providing a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Alexandria’s rich Civil War history.

Tour Overview

The private History of Old Town Alexandria Walking Tour offers a 90-minute exploration of the Civil War-era city.

Priced at $275 per group (up to 15 people), the tour departs from and ends at 221 King St, Alexandria, VA.

Highlighting historic sites like Carlyle House, Christ Church, and Gadsby’s Tavern, the walking tour provides insights into the local history, including stories of doctors and nurses during the Civil War.

With a professional guide, the small-group experience encourages personal service and opportunities for questions.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.

Exploring Civil War-era Alexandria

Strolling through Old Town Alexandria, visitors are transported back to the Civil War era, where the city’s historic sites and landmarks serve as a window into the past.

The tour highlights pivotal moments, like the first Civil War casualties at Gadsby’s Tavern and the struggles of doctors and nurses during the conflict. Guests explore the Carlyle House, home of a forgotten founding father, and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Shop, now a museum.

The Torpedo Factory, once a munitions plant, now houses an art center. Throughout the 90-minute walking tour, the knowledgeable guide brings Alexandria’s Civil War history to life.

Discovering Historic Sites

As visitors embark on the guided tour, they are introduced to a diverse array of historic sites that offer a glimpse into Alexandria’s storied past.

The tour highlights:

• The Carlyle House, a Georgian-style mansion that was the home of John Carlyle, a prominent 18th-century merchant and founding father.

• Christ Church, where George Washington himself worshipped and is now a National Historic Landmark.

• The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Shop, a museum that showcases the history of pharmacy and medicine in the 19th century.

These carefully curated stops provide a window into the city’s rich heritage, captivating both history buffs and casual travelers alike.

Carlyle House and the Forgotten Founding Father

One of the first historic sites visitors encounter on the tour is the stately Carlyle House, a Georgian-style mansion that was once the residence of John Carlyle, a prominent 18th-century merchant and founding father. Carlyle played a significant role in the founding of Alexandria, serving as a member of the city’s civic leadership. The tour guide delves into Carlyle’s life and legacy, shedding light on this often-overlooked founding father.

Fact	Detail
Architect	William Buckland
Construction	1751-1753
Notable Residents	John Carlyle and family
Current Status	Museum and historic site

Visitors can explore the meticulously preserved home and learn about Carlyle’s contributions to the early development of Alexandria, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history.

The Struggles of Doctors and Nurses During the Civil War

The tour then shifts its focus to the struggles faced by doctors and nurses during the Civil War in Alexandria. The guide explains:

• Alexandria became a major hub for wounded soldiers, leading to severe overcrowding and unsanitary conditions in the city’s hospitals.

• Doctors and nurses had to cope with shortages of medical supplies, equipment, and trained personnel, making their jobs incredibly challenging.

• Many lost their lives while tending to the ill and injured, succumbing to diseases like typhoid fever, dysentery, and cholera that swept through the overwhelmed facilities.

The audience gains a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices and hardships endured by the medical professionals who served on the frontlines of the Civil War.

Inclusions and Accessibility

This walking tour in Old Town Alexandria includes several key inclusions to enhance the experience for participants. A professional guide is provided, and gratuities are included, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable tour. The tour is also wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed, making it inclusive for a wide range of visitors. Plus, the tour is located near public transportation, providing convenient access. However, it is not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions, and a moderate physical fitness level is required.

Inclusion	Accessibility
Professional guide	Wheelchair accessible
Gratuities included	Stroller accessible
Service animals allowed	Near public transportation
Not recommended for serious medical conditions	Moderate physical fitness required

Personalized Tour Experience

What sets this walking tour apart is its personalized experience for participants. The small group size ensures attentive, one-on-one service from the knowledgeable guide.

Tourists can expect:

• Opportunities to ask questions and dive deeper into topics of personal interest
• Flexibility to adjust the pace and focus based on the group’s needs and preferences
• Engaging storytelling that brings the rich history of Old Town Alexandria to life

This tailored approach allows each visitor to connect with the past in a meaningful way, creating a truly memorable experience.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

According to the 13 reviews, the Old Town Alexandria Walking Tour has garnered an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5.

Tourists praise the guide’s deep knowledge, engaging storytelling, and personalized attention. Many mention discovering hidden gems and learning fascinating local lore they would have missed on their own.

Reviewers express intentions to revisit and explore additional tours with the same guide, citing the small group size and tailored experience as key factors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may be suitable for older children with a strong interest in history, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness and may cover some topics related to the Civil War. However, it is not specifically designed for children.

Can We Stop for Refreshments During the Tour?

The tour allows for periodic stops at various historic sites, but does not include dedicated time for refreshments. Visitors are welcome to purchase drinks or snacks at their own expense during the tour if desired.

How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate level of walking, as it covers historic sites in Old Town Alexandria. Guests should be prepared to walk approximately 1-2 miles during the 90-minute duration of the tour. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

No special equipment is required for this tour. The only recommended items are comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves moderate physical activity. Participants should be prepared for approximately 90 minutes of walking during the guided exploration of the historical sites.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Interests?

The tour can be customized to suit the group’s interests. The guide is knowledgeable and will work with the group to focus on the aspects of Old Town Alexandria’s history that are most engaging and relevant.

The Sum Up

This private walking tour of Old Town Alexandria offers a unique opportunity to explore the area’s rich Civil War history. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the 90-minute exploration showcases iconic sites and provides insights into the struggles of doctors and nurses during the war. Travelers can expect a personalized experience that highlights the lasting impact of the Civil War on this vibrant community.