Explore These 4 Historic Museums in Alexandria, VA

The history of Alexandria, Virginia, dates back to 1749. The city has served many purposes over the years including as a trading post, a port, and even as the hometown of George Washington. Check out a few of the top museums where you can explore history further in the Alexandria area.

Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum

The building that the Alexandria History Museum occupies was once a Civil War hospital ward. Today, the museum displays historical exhibits including “Alexandrians Fight the Great War” and the “World War II: The Five Payne Brothers.” The museum also hosts a 2nd Friday After Work Concert Series which takes place on every second Friday of the month in Old Town Alexandria.

Children between the ages of five and seven can attend Clio’s Kids summer camp program. This program educates children on the history of Alexandria through exploring artifacts, singing songs, making crafts, and playing historical games.

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary was a favorite shop of the Washingtons and Robert E. Lee. After the apothecary shop closed down, the city preserved it and transformed it into a museum so you can experience the same shopping trip as the most prominent people of Alexandria in the late 1700s. You will find original merchandise and furniture within the shop, as well as preserved vials of product. You can also view botanicals, hand-blown glasses, and prescription formulas throughout history. Sign up for a private tour and enjoy a potion-mixing class at the upper level of the museum.

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum was the place to be during the 18th century. The five-star hotel welcomed politicians, businessmen, and celebrities of its time. You can even dine at the same table as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson once did. A tour of the tavern will give you a glimpse into the social scene of the time. The museum also has a display of Revolutionary War artifacts, and guided tours will give you an in-depth lesson into the history of the tavern. For a truly memorable experience, consider booking an overnight stay at the interesting tavern museum.

National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum

The inventive history of Alexandria is almost as important as its political one. The National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum sits inside of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and gives you the opportunity to explore some of the best inventions in history. The museum has inventions from over 540 inventors with exhibits, videos, and even the actual inventions themselves. A guided tour with hands-on activities will also educate you on the process it takes to go from idea to product design. Kid-friendly attractions will entertain young minds and there are after-school inventor programs available for all ages.

American inventors, inspiring businessmen, and small-town businesses were important to the development of Alexandria, Virginia. Take a blast into the past and explore a few of the best historical attractions while you learn more about the city you call home.

Image via Pixabay

Posted in Around Town | No Comments »