Visiting the Alexandria/DC Area

Have some extra time while visiting the area?

The US Government shutdown means that most federal properties, including the Smithsonian museums are closed, but there are lots of other things to see and do. 

Here's a useful site about what is open at this time:

https://washington.org/dcisopen

Some sites in Virginia:

• Self-guided walks though Old Town Alexandria and along the Potomac River waterfront; also see this list of Alexandria Black History sites.

• The Freedom House Museum is re-opening after renovation on November 7th. Official ribbon cutting on November 8 at 1 p.m. 

• Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria: https://torpedofactory.org/

• Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum: https://www.alexandriava.gov/Apothecary

• Arlington National Cemetery - Home

Some sites in DC

• While the nearby Smithsonian museums are closed during the US government shutdown, the National Mall is well worth a visit, from the Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument to the US Capital. See map here: https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/maps.htm 

• Planet Word (this free private museum explores language)

Planet Word Museum — Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Winner 2025

• DC has many terrific neighborhoods to explore: Foggy Bottom, Georgetown, Dupont Circle, Capital Hill, Chinatown/Penn Quarter, to name a few.  Consider having lunch at a restaurant that features a cuisine that is new to you!

• Consider visiting local market areas: the historic Eastern Market in Capital Hill, or Union Market