Travel back in time and celebrate the rich history that Alexandria is known for at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum. From political events to social gatherings, Gadsby’s Tavern was a key location in Virginia’s history. This 18th-century gem once housed famous historical figures such as George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe.

The museum features two buildings: the tavern built in 1785 and the City Hotel, built in 1792. Check out both and immerse yourself in the history, architecture, decorative arts, food and clothing of the 18th century. Family and individual tours are available, along with special events like the Presidential Salon with James Madison, where you can listen to the fourth president of the United States as he talks about the political and personal issues of 1816.

Make a day out of it, and enjoy a traditional meal at the Gadsby’s Tavern Restaurant’s colonial dining room, which has provided fine fining since the 1770s.

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
703.746.4242
www.alexandriava.gov/GadsbysTavern

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr -Jérôme-

Balkan Grill is a small Alexandria restaurant serving authentic Mediterranean dishes, so you can expect lot of grilled beef and freshly baked bread. Try the house-made beef sausages wrapped in a still-warm flatbread, or go for a mildly spiced burger with chilis and herbs on a ciabatta-like house baked bun. Regulars recommend you try a "burek," which is phylo pastry dough stuffed with herbed cheese, fresh baby spinach, spiced potatoes, or any number of other delectable fillings.

Frequent diners report that the staff is especially friendly and patient, particularly if you're new to Balkan Grill and need some suggestions for what to order, so feel free to ask questions and seek advice. The restaurant also does a brisk take-out business, so if you want to savor your meal in the comfort of your own home, just call ahead and they'll have your order waiting when you arrive.

Balkan Grill
5902A North Kings Highway
Alexandria, VA 22303
(703) 329-3303
www.balkangrill.us
www.yelp.com/biz/balkan-grill-alexandria-2

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/mamonello

Loyal customers travel all the way from Washington, D.C. to Tennis City, where they say the owner, Kinde, offers some of the best customer service in the area. A veteran tennis teacher, Kinde is very knowledgeable about the game, and puts the needs of customers first. According to frequent shoppers, you’ll never feel pressured to spend money on equipment you don’t need. If you’re new to the game of tennis, Kinde will help you choose good equipment that won’t destroy your budget.

Prices here are very reasonable, even considering the area, but the real reason to shop at Tennis City is to benefit from the invaluable advice you’ll receive from Kinde, who draws upon his decades of experience with the game in order to help every customer. As your game improves, return to Tennis City to upgrade your equipment. You can have your racquet restrung here, too.

Tennis City
6550 Little River Turnpike
Alexandria, VA 22312
(703) 256-4040
www.tennis-city.com
www.yelp.com/biz/tennis-city-alexandria

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Edwin Torres Photography