Get Some Fresh Air in Alexandria, VA

Alexandria, Virginia, is a lovely historic city that sits on the banks of the Potomac River. The city has a rich colonial history with many interesting and famous monuments and landmarks that you can visit.

Along with museums, art galleries, and historical sites, you and your family can also enjoy some fresh air by exploring the best parks and outdoor recreation activities that Alexandria has to offer. You can still learn about the unique history of the Alexandria area while having fun getting fresh air and exercise. Let’s take a look at a few favorite outdoor attractions to visit.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Alexandria is a city steeped in the history of the United States. If you enjoy the nation’s history, then a visit to the plantation estate of the first President, George Washington and his wife Martha, is a must-see attraction. Take the family for a tour of the mansion, the stunning gardens, and learn about the history of Mount Vernon and George Washington. With so much to see and do at this gorgeous park and historic site, be sure to allow plenty of time to thoroughly explore all that the park has to offer.

Huntley Meadows Park

On a lovely day, pack a picnic and load the family into your car and take a short drive from the center of Alexandria to Huntley Meadow Park. Make a stop at the visitors center to learn a bit of the history of the park and then take a leisurely stroll along the wooden boardwalk elevated over the wetlands.

Keep your eyes open for the numerous species of birds and wildlife that live in the park. Walk along the interpretive trail systems to the beaver pond, where you will hopefully catch sight of these beautiful and industrious mammals. After your walk, enjoy your picnic at one of the many lovely picnic sites available.

Fort Hunt Park

If your kids or grandkids love to fly kites and run in open meadows, then a visit to Fort Hunt Park will delight the entire family. Originally part of George Washington’s historic Mount Vernon estate, the land that the park sits on today lies along the banks of the Potomac River and offers gorgeous views of the water. The park has an abundance of wildlife roaming about so let the kids know to watch for deer, squirrels, and if they are lucky, maybe even a fox!

Boating on the Potomac River

A wonderful way to see the sites along the Potomac River is by hopping aboard a boat cruise. Many of the boat tour companies offer cruises to various historic sites along the shores of the river. A monuments tour will take you by many of our nation’s famous monuments and landmarks, including the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Memorial, and the Arlington Bridge. And if you have your dog with you, choose a Canine Cruise that is pet-friendly and will take you sailing around the waterfront.

With so many parks and historic sites to visit, you will find plenty of ways to get fresh air while visiting or living in Alexandria, VA.

Image via Pixabay

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