Pedals and Brick: Riding Old Town Alexandria’s Waterfront
A short, scenic urban ride that stitches Colonial-era charm to riverfront views
You push away from the curb and the city exhales. Brick sidewalks give way to a ribbon of asphalt alongside the Potomac; freight of history and commute falls behind. Heads turn as you coast past red-brick row houses, the air taking on a salt-and-river tang that hints at Washington’s skyline across the water. This is Old Town Alexandria by bike: an easy, immediate way to see a layered city where Colonial lamp posts live alongside lunchtime cyclists and weekend families.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early
Morning light and lighter pedestrian traffic make King Street and the Mount Vernon Trail easier to navigate.
Choose Wider Tires
Cobblestones and brick sidewalks are common—wider tires improve comfort and control.
Lock Smart
Use the provided lock and secure the frame and rear wheel to a fixed object when stopping in town.
Watch the Wind
River breezes can shift quickly; plan your route so you don’t fight a headwind on the return leg.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Torpedo Factory Art Center—artist studios and exhibits right on the waterfront
- •Waterfront Park’s piers for quiet river views and sunset watching
Wildlife
Great Blue Heron, Osprey
Conservation Note
Ride the designated bike lanes and stay on paved trails to limit erosion; the Potomac is part of the Chesapeake Bay watershed—avoid discarding plastics or food waste near the river.
Alexandria was established in 1749 and served as an important colonial port; much of Old Town’s Federal-era architecture is preserved along King Street.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Blossom-lined rides, Weekday quieter streets
Challenges: Occasional rain showers, Weekend visitor spikes
Spring offers mild temps and blooming streets—ideal for photography and family rides, but pack a lightweight rain layer.
summer
Best for: Long daylight rides, Waterfront picnics
Challenges: Hot afternoons, Higher humidity
Summer brings long days and busy sidewalks; ride earlier or later to avoid heat and crowds.
fall
Best for: Crisp air and foliage, Comfortable temperatures
Challenges: Shortening daylight, Weekend tourist surges
Fall is arguably the best time to ride: cooler temps, colorful trees, and great light for photos.
winter
Best for: Quiet streets, Crisp river views
Challenges: Cold winds off the Potomac, Short days
Winter rides are quieter and sharp; dress in layers and be mindful of slick patches after rain or freeze.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Helmet (provided)Essential
Protects your head; rentals include helmets but bring a personal one for fit and comfort if you prefer.
Water BottleEssential
Hydration for urban and riverside stretches, especially on warm days.
Light Lock (provided)Essential
Secure your bike during stops; the shop includes locks but a secondary cable can be useful.
Padded Saddle Cover or Gloves
Adds comfort for longer rides and helps reduce hand and saddle fatigue.
Common Questions
How long are rentals available?
Unlimited Biking offers rentals from two hours up to one month, so you can choose a quick loop or an extended urban exploration.
What equipment is included with the rental?
Helmets, a color-coded map, a basket or bike bag, and a lock are included free of charge.
Are the routes family-friendly?
Yes—most recommended routes are flat, paved, and suitable for kids and casual riders; choose wider tires for cobbles.
Can I ride into Washington, D.C.?
Absolutely—the Mount Vernon Trail and connected bike lanes provide a direct, low-stress route to the National Mall and riverside memorials.
Is there parking or transit access to the shop?
The shop is in Old Town near public transit and short driving distance from Reagan National Airport; check the shop's website for specific parking tips.
Do I need to reserve a bike?
Reservations are recommended on weekends and during spring and fall peak seasons to ensure your preferred bike size and type.
What to Pack
Helmet (fit & comfort), Water bottle (hydration on the trail), Lightweight lock (secure pauses in Old Town), Layered clothing (river winds and changing temps)
Did You Know
Alexandria was founded in 1749 and named after John Alexander; its Old Town retains one of the largest concentrations of 18th- and 19th-century architecture in the mid-Atlantic.
Quick Travel Tips
Reserve bikes on weekends; bring a refillable water bottle; plan for cobblestones in Old Town; expect good cell service but download maps for offline use
Local Flavor
After a ride, wander King Street for bakeries and seafood counters, visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center for local art, and stop by Port City Brewing or a waterfront café for a post-ride beer or meal—Old Town’s compact layout makes it easy to combine cycling with food and culture.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Reagan National (DCA) / Trailhead: 1199 N Fairfax St, Old Town Alexandria / Driving distance from DC: ~10–20 minutes depending on traffic / Cell service: Generally good in town and along the Mount Vernon Trail / Permits: None required for standard rentals
Sustainability Note
Use existing bike lanes and racks, stick to paved trails to prevent shoreline erosion, and pack out all trash—support local businesses to reinforce sustainable tourism in Old Town.