Fun things to do and see in Northern Virginia near Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County and Falls Church. Includes parks, shopping, sightseeing, recreation and events.
The harp is over the hearth at Murphy's
Murphy's Grand Irish Pub is located in Old Town Alexandria on King Street just a few paces from Washington Street/the George Washington Parkway. Murphy's serves up Irish classics and pub fare. The prices are reasonable and the food is good.
Murphy's also has a calendar of events filled with various musical entertainment. Together with Eamon's and a few other places in Alexandria, Old Town has plenty to warm the Irish heart.
Fortune Teller in Old Town
I took a walk on waterfront in Old Town Alexandria VA last night. The temperature was absolutely perfect as was the humidity. There were crowds, but it wasn't too much. I saw folks rushing to the Nina Dandy and other boats for an evening of cruising. There were several street musicians playing King St. At the pass-thru under the Torpedo Factory, a gentleman was playing the saxophone. And down along the water a street magician was showing his stuff. The balloon men were there creating animals and entertaining the children. A fortune teller was portending the future. A parrot rescue group had a flock of parrots and similar birds which were available for photos.
But then a light misting rain started to fall and the crowds scattered. At first they hid in the Food Court and on the trolley. The musicians were the first to pack, and they packed quickly to ensure their instruments weren't damaged. The mule drawn carriage pulled off and soon the streets were quiet. We walked around a bit, enjoying the peace and quiet. And then we were gone as well.
Street magic at the water front in Old Town Alexandria VA
About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo Alexandria and Nesbitt Realty. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.
Old Town Alexandria has several parks next to the water. During the summer time pick up volleyball games happen often. Along Union St. there are parks that have a dog park, trails, a basketball court, a playground, and plenty of green grass . These parks are a great resource within walking distance of several neighborhoods.
Condominiums near the volleyball courts include Alexandria House and Port Royal and Old Town Commons. Old Town is a very walkable area. Grocery stores in the area include Safeway, Trader Joe's, and Whole Foods.The nearest metro to the parks is King Street metro station.
Old Town parks attract a variety of people
The volleyball courts are near the Torpedo Factory
Kingstowne Shopping center is accessible to Franconia and the outskirts of 495, 395, and Telegraph. This is a huge shopping center with grocery stores, clothing stores, restaurants, and countless shops. There are several trails that hug the area right across for the Kingstone Shopping Center. There are several neighborhoods located close to this area.Continue reading