3 days in Alexandria & Arlington Itinerary

Just a few metro stops away from the bustle of Washington D.C., Alexandria provides a respite from the fast-paced capital.

Kick off your visit on the 13th (Thu): see the interesting displays at Carlyle House, then wander the streets of Old Town, then shop like a local with Torpedo Factory Art Center, and finally take in the waterfront at Old Town Waterfront. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: pause for some serene contemplation at The Basilica of Saint Mary, then admire the striking features of George Washington's Mount Vernon, then learn about all things military at National Museum of the Marine Corps, and finally explore the different monuments and memorials at Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery.

To find other places to visit, traveler tips, photos, and tourist information, you can read our Alexandria trip planning website.

The Route module shows you all the different ways you can get to Alexandria. In May, plan for daily highs up to 76°F, and evening lows to 58°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 15th (Sat) so you can drive to Arlington.

Located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., the county of Arlington blends big city and sprawling suburban environments.

On the 15th (Sat), steep yourself in history at Arlington House - The Robert E. Lee Memorial, then don't miss a visit to John F. Kennedy Grave Site, then steep yourself in history at Arlington National Cemetery, and finally get to know the fascinating history of The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

To see more things to do, other places to visit, maps, and other tourist information, you can read our Arlington road trip planning website.

Arlington is just a short distance from Alexandria. In May in Arlington, expect temperatures between 76°F during the day and 58°F at night.