Lazy afternoons spent strolling down King Street in Old Town Alexandria are about to get better. The car-free, pedestrian portion of the street is here to stay—perfect for window shopping, stopping for a bite or an ice cream cone, and meandering with friends. Implemented to promote walkability, outdoor dining, and event activation, the pedestrian zone gained huge popularity as a pilot project for summertime, with 90 percent of surveyed residents supporting it becoming permanent. Portions of Strand Street will also close to cars for good, along with this block of King Street.
These changes will be incorporated into Alexandria’s broader Waterfront Implementation Project to improve storm safety and infrastructure. The project’s goal is to streamline and implement the design and modification plans more efficiently. Final designs expected next summer.
So if you find yourself wandering the town or in search of a way to enjoy sunny days, visit King Street for a taste of community, good eats, and unique boutiques. As the surrounding infrastructure becomes less car-centric, shoppers will notice the area bustling with life as it becomes a hub for people and their four-legged friends to gather and support brick-and-mortar businesses. Nearby shops to find a breezy summer outfit or perfect present include Lou Lou, The Old Town Shop, and The Lucky Knot. Meanwhile, Pop’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream and The Creamery are there for your sweet treat fix, perhaps after dinner at Mia’s Italian Kitchen or The Wharf. AlexandriaVa.gov
This article originally appeared in the Best of Virginia 2024 issue.
