10 Iconic Museums In Alexandria To Explore The Past Of This Impeccable City In 2024!

23 Mar 2023

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For the fans of Antiquity! There exists, a magnificent city amidst the bustle of the state of Virginia in the USA. Alexandria VA, christened by the waters of the Potomac River, which flows to the east has witnessed and played a significant role in almost all of the major historical events in the USA. With its rich heritage and glorious past, the city boasts of its plethora of historical destinations which have become major tourist attractions, worldwide. Apart from History, the city also offers its guests an indelible time with its river cruises, breweries, biking trails and the King Street Mile making the place a tourist destination. So, let’s have a look at the stunning museums in Alexandria, where we can get close to the roots of mankind and get a taste of Classic American History.

10 Best Museums In Alexandria

Here is the list of the most famous museums in Alexandria in Virginia that you ought to visit on your trip to America. Keep scrolling down to read along to know more!

1. Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

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This scenic museum, originally an apothecary, dates back to 1792! The apothecary business went on for more than a century, with its customers being the likes of Robert E Lee and the very first “First Lady” of the United States, Martha Washington. The legacy of the pharmacy was subsequently turned into a museum having a vast collection of hand blown glass, medical equipment, and even herbal botanicals. One can also have a look at the archival documents like prescription letters here. Drop by this fabulous place, to have a look into the history of apothecaries in the United States.

Must Read: 15 Best Places To Visit In Washington DC That Will Take You Back In Time

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2. Carlyle House

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This monumental Mansion, located near the King’s Street and close to the Potomac River was built in 1751. The mansion witnessed every aspect of American History, including, The War of Independence, Slavery and The Civil War to name a few. Flabbergasted ?, but there’s more, the place has a Historic Park in it! The place also offers a scout program, which is extremely popular among the kids. Do visit this place for a tryst with history or for some unforgettable family time in the picturesque lawns on a sunny day!

3. George Washington Masonic National Memorial

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One of the largest private scale memorials in the name of George Washington. With its 101mtr tall stature, it strikes awe amongst the beholders. The architecture is sublime and based on the lighthouse of Alexandria in Egypt. The memorial is situated on the top of Shooter’s Hill and has an exemplary green cover, and it also has a souvenir shop, where you can take a piece of history back to your home.

4. Torpedo Factory Art Center

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For the Art freaks out there! This world famous art gallery has spectacular antique paintings and holds events throughout the year which showcase serene works of art of renowned artists across the globe. The place also has resident artists, whose works you can not only admire, but take home with you. Indeed a place to visit!

5. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

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An 18th-century tavern which served two ex-presidents, take your time to come back to your senses. The place once held musicals, dance performances, and meetings of local organizations. The best part being, you can still experience the 18th century, by dancing with your partner in a classic Virginian Ball, and drinking in the halls, where the Presidents drank! A must visit location for those who want to experience history, by living it.

6. Bibliotheca Alexandrina

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Bibliotheca Alexandrina is located near the ancient library of Alexandria that features an eleven-story, cylindrical-shaped building comprising 8 million books. The place is gorgeously designed exhibiting the cultural aspect of this modern city. It also has a Manuscript museum having a vast collection of ancient text. The antiquities museum here showcases the Graeco Roman museum. The amazing rotating art exhibition is based on Egyptian folk art collection. The place houses one of the best Alexandria museums and welcomes thousands of visitors every year.

7. Royal Jewelry Museum

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Royal Jewelry Museum is located in the former palace of Princess Fatima Al-Zahra and showcases an enormous collection of jewels and jewelry of the Muhammad Ali Dynasty. This beautiful art and history museum also exhibits the rare paintings of the 19th century, statues, and exclusive art pieces. The palace that houses the museum was constructed in the year 1919 and has one of the best architectures in the entire city.

8. Alexandria Black History Museum

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The Alexandria Black History Museum is an amazing place to explore as it comprises the museum, and the Watson Reading Room amidst the Alexandria African American Heritage Park. This museum aims at inspiring innovation among those seeking to learn. One can even boat or bike around the beautiful garden here.

9. Alexandria Archaeology Museum

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Alexandria Archaeology Museum features the process of archaeology and the latest findings of the city. The museum’s main exhibition weaves the story of wharves, taverns, bakery, and the civil war. In the Public Laboratory of the museum, one can find various volunteers washing, marking, and cataloging artifacts from the latest dig.

10. Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden

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It is a historic house that is located in the Old Town in Alexandria. Lee-Fendall House was established in the year 1785 and served as home to the members of the Lee family including the enslaved and free African American servants, Union soldiers, popular Downham family, and famous labor leader John L Lewis. One can check out the guided tours available between all Saturday to Thursday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Alexandria is a mix of serenity and beauty and it is one of the most frequented cities in Virginia. All the history buffs, these museums in Alexandria must be on your itinerary. So, think no more, pick your dates, pack all that you can, plan your vacation in the United Staes of America with Travel Triangle and leave right away to explore the astounding city of Alexandria on your blissful vacation!

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