Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

Alexandria


Once a real tavern (operated by John Gadsby from 1796 to 1808), this building now houses a museum demonstrating the prominent role of the tavern in Alexandria during the 18th century. As the center of local political, business and social life, it was frequented by anybody who was anybody, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and the Marquis de Lafayette. Take a self-guided tour or join a guided tour at quarter to and quarter past the hour.

The rooms are restored to their 18th-century appearance, but are sparsely furnished.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Alexandria attractions

1. Carlyle House

0.09 MILES

If you have time for just one historic house tour in Alexandria, make it this one. The house dates from 1753 when merchant and city founder, John Carlyle,…

2. Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

0.09 MILES

In 1792 Edward Stabler opened up his apothecary (pharmacy) – a family business that would operate until 1933, when the Depression forced its doors to…

3. Christ Church

0.2 MILES

Built in 1773, this brown-brick Georgian-style church has welcomed worshipers from George Washington to Robert E Lee. The cemetery contains the mass grave…

4. Alexandria Archaeology Museum

0.22 MILES

Alexandria is known for its landmark archaeological protection code – one of the first in the US – which encourages local archaeologists and developers to…

5. Torpedo Factory Art Center

0.22 MILES

What do you do with a former munitions dump and arms factory? How about turning it into one of the best art spaces in the region? Three floors of artist…

6. Lyceum: Alexandria's History Museum

0.25 MILES

For a quick primer on Alexandria’s history, stop by this small city museum in a beautiful Greek Revival building dating from 1839. A somewhat dusty array…

7. Lee-Fendall House

0.31 MILES

Between 1785 and 1903, generations of the famous Lee family lived in this architecturally impressive house. Guided tours (on the hour) show the restored…

8. Friendship Firehouse Museum

0.32 MILES

This 1855 Italianate firehouse displays historic firefighting gear – a great draw for kids. Local legend has it that George Washington helped found this…