Virginia Railway Express
Founded in 1749, Alexandria became a bustling seaport for international and coastal maritime trade by the time of the Revolution. George Washington was a frequent visitor to Alexandria, where he presided over the election of delegates to the first Virginia Convention and a protest over new taxes levied by the British Parliament.
The Civil War had an even greater impact upon the area. Immediately upon initiation of hostilities between the North and South, Union troops crossed the Potomac River to secure the city and the surrounding hills as part of a protective ring of forts surrounding Washington. Alexandria remained under Union control for the duration of the war.
Robert E. Lee spent much of his boyhood in the house at 607 Oronoco Street prior to going to West Point and enduring fame as the leader of the Confederacy's Army of Northern Virginia during the four year conflict.
Alexandria's colorful and enduring past has not kept the city from becoming a robust and bustling 20th century metropolis poised for growth in the new millennium. The city vibrates with thriving businesses and a revitalized, attractive downtown area bordered by the scenic Potomac River. Commercial activities located adjacent to the waterfront and along the cobblestone streets of "Old Town" combine an attractive blend of the historical and contemporary. Fine dining establishments, antique shops, specialty stores, various walking and river tours, and artist's studios give a distinctive flair to this unique metropolitan area that continues to attract visitors and residents alike.
Virginia Railway Express (VRE) offers metro visitors and residents a unique, relaxing and stress free way to enjoy this attractive city. VRE can carry visitors from the Manassas and Fredericksburg areas (and intermediate points) to Alexandria's VRE station. Trains offer a relaxing ride in comfortable coaches, while allowing passengers to avoid the stress of highway commuting and the hassle of parking. Upon arrival in Alexandria, exit the station to the right and under the railway overpass to the King Street Metro (subway) station. VRE passengers may either walk down tree lined King Street to the Visitor Center at 221 King Street (about one mile) or use their VRE ticket for free transportation via Metrobus (29K) or Alexandria's DASH bus system (AT2, AT5 or AT7) to the intersection of King and Washington Streets. From there it is a short three block walk to the Visitor Center and friendly, informative assistance for touring the area. The Visitors Center may be contacted at 1-800-388-9119 or 703-838-4200 and is open from 9am to 5pm daily.