George Washington Town House in Old Town Alexandria - Walk to Everything!
4.8
Outstanding(144 Reviews)House in Alexandria, VA
6 guests · 2 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
Includes essentialsGarden, Pets allowed, Kitchen or Kitchenette and more
About this house rental
In the heart of Old Town Alexandria sits the George Washington Town House. The house is a reproduction of the original town house, and sits on the original site. GW used the house, primarily before the Revolution, as an office and to spend the night when he was in Alexandria for business or social reasons (for more historical information, see below or search "George Washington townhouse Alexandria").
It is conveniently located in Old Town. It is a one block walk to King St. and a short walk to the waterfront, the museums, restaurants, shops (including Trader Joe’s and a CVS), public library, farmer’s market and City Hall. It is also walking distance to the King St. metro (there are also free shuttles running to the metro along King St. from the waterfront to the Metro station). Rates vary by season, and whether stay is weeknight or weekend. Stays of a week or longer are discounted, as are "last minute" bookings.
The town house is three levels (about 600 sq. ft. per level) with the 2 bedrooms on the top level, the living room and dining room (one large room) on the second (main) level, and the kitchen and family room with queen sleep sofa on the English basement level. There are two bathrooms, one with a bath and shower on the top level, and one with a shower only on the English basement level. The house features a large rear courtyard. At the rear of the lot is a large storage shed where the stable was. There are two parking spaces on the far side of the storage shed and off of “Washington Way” where GW would approach the property by horse.
When Alexandria was founded in 1749, the town ran up (west) from the river only as far as Royal Street. However, the town was doing so well by 1763 that several more blocks were added then. GW purchased this quarter-block lot (Lot 118) on May 9, 1763, for ten pounds, ten shillings. From 1769 to 1771, he had a plain dwelling, a stable, and other necessary buildings constructed here as sort of a town annex to Mount Vernon. The town house was the only house built by Washington for his own use. Prior to the Revolutionary War, he used it often when he was in Alexandria. During the war and his Presidency, the place was often rented or lent to friends and members of the family. Dr. William Brown rented the house for about ten years; Martha Washington’s favorite niece, Fanny Bassett Washington, lived here with her two boys for a little over a year in 1794-95; and Colonel Philip Marsteller, close friend of GW since Revolution, former Mayor of Alexandria and one of Washington’s pall bearers, lived here in 1797. A number of Washington’s letters refer to spending the night “at my own house.” Other letters order fencing for the property and give detailed directions for such things as repairing the fireplaces, laying a brick floor in the basement, papering the bedroom wall, and painting the exterior.
It is the first piece of property listed in Washington’s will, and it was the only piece of property that he left outright to his wife Martha when he died. At her death, Mrs. Washington left the property to her nephew, Bartholomew Dandridge. Unfortunately, the dwelling which had significantly deteriorated, was demolished in 1855. In 1960, Gov. and Mrs. Richard Lowe had the house reconstructed based on existing accounts - particularly a drawing done by a neighbor about the time of the demolition (copy at the house).
During the 1990s, the GW town house was rented to Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac while he operated "Fleetwood's" a blues club and restaurant in north Old Town.
(Adapted from Walking with Washington)
It is conveniently located in Old Town. It is a one block walk to King St. and a short walk to the waterfront, the museums, restaurants, shops (including Trader Joe’s and a CVS), public library, farmer’s market and City Hall. It is also walking distance to the King St. metro (there are also free shuttles running to the metro along King St. from the waterfront to the Metro station). Rates vary by season, and whether stay is weeknight or weekend. Stays of a week or longer are discounted, as are "last minute" bookings.
The town house is three levels (about 600 sq. ft. per level) with the 2 bedrooms on the top level, the living room and dining room (one large room) on the second (main) level, and the kitchen and family room with queen sleep sofa on the English basement level. There are two bathrooms, one with a bath and shower on the top level, and one with a shower only on the English basement level. The house features a large rear courtyard. At the rear of the lot is a large storage shed where the stable was. There are two parking spaces on the far side of the storage shed and off of “Washington Way” where GW would approach the property by horse.
When Alexandria was founded in 1749, the town ran up (west) from the river only as far as Royal Street. However, the town was doing so well by 1763 that several more blocks were added then. GW purchased this quarter-block lot (Lot 118) on May 9, 1763, for ten pounds, ten shillings. From 1769 to 1771, he had a plain dwelling, a stable, and other necessary buildings constructed here as sort of a town annex to Mount Vernon. The town house was the only house built by Washington for his own use. Prior to the Revolutionary War, he used it often when he was in Alexandria. During the war and his Presidency, the place was often rented or lent to friends and members of the family. Dr. William Brown rented the house for about ten years; Martha Washington’s favorite niece, Fanny Bassett Washington, lived here with her two boys for a little over a year in 1794-95; and Colonel Philip Marsteller, close friend of GW since Revolution, former Mayor of Alexandria and one of Washington’s pall bearers, lived here in 1797. A number of Washington’s letters refer to spending the night “at my own house.” Other letters order fencing for the property and give detailed directions for such things as repairing the fireplaces, laying a brick floor in the basement, papering the bedroom wall, and painting the exterior.
It is the first piece of property listed in Washington’s will, and it was the only piece of property that he left outright to his wife Martha when he died. At her death, Mrs. Washington left the property to her nephew, Bartholomew Dandridge. Unfortunately, the dwelling which had significantly deteriorated, was demolished in 1855. In 1960, Gov. and Mrs. Richard Lowe had the house reconstructed based on existing accounts - particularly a drawing done by a neighbor about the time of the demolition (copy at the house).
During the 1990s, the GW town house was rented to Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac while he operated "Fleetwood's" a blues club and restaurant in north Old Town.
(Adapted from Walking with Washington)
Amenities
Air conditioner
Pets allowed
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Alexandria, VA
Reviews
4.8
Outstanding(144 Reviews)4.8
This property was everything and more than expected. It was a pleasure to be immersed in the history of the area. The location is perfect for walking the neighborhood which was very fun. The parking was great and the host was very prompt and gracious regarding a question I had.
4.8
Great location close to shopping, dining and waterfront! We parked our vehicle and enjoyed walking to everything. Enjoyed sitting outside in the private garden. Owner was very responsive.
4.8
Wonderful location, great communication with owner, clear directions and charming house.
4.8
Great history and location.
Starbucks and CVS nearby.
Gracious property manager.
4.8
several attempts to reach someone for more than 2 bath towels for 4 people.. and also the back door, we were never able to Lock .. it stayed wide open the entire time and with the wind blowing
slamming back and forth and wide open..many attempts to get someone to come and fix with no answer
4.8
If you enjoy history then this is the place for you. Me, my mom, and stepdad came for my mom’s birthday. She is a big fan of history and wanted to tour Mt Vernon. The main level of the house is filled with so much history. We got to see people stop by out front during a tour or just strolling down the sidewalk and see it’s a historical sight. When we arrived we ran into only one issue and it was taken care of quickly and above & beyond what was expected. The weather was chilly so we didn’t get yo enjoy the courtyard but it was very peaceful. There are alot of stairs, my parents are 67 & 71 and was able to use them but they are something to keep in mind when booking with other adults. The house was an awesome experience and Thomas was easy to get in contact with.
4.8
Upon arrival the smell was awful … thinking that a bit of airing out would help it didn’t …. Furniture in lower level is dirty and uncomfortable…. Kitchen counters were sticky and soiled …. Bathrooms were filthy … dirty rugs ets … mold …. Bedding was dirty uncomfortable and smelly the courtyard and walkways are hazardous…. All said we were to stay 4 nights … we left after the first night ….
4.8
We loved that the Old Town Ghost tour stopped outside every night. The townhouse was great for a family of four and having dedicated parking is amazing. Love the walkable, convenient location! Responsive communication with the host and we would gladly return.
4.8
The house was exactly as described. The area was just what we wanted. Walked everywhere to some of the best restaurants I’ve ever been to. 10-15 min to National Mall, Mount Vernon and Smithsonian Grandchildren loved all the sights and the ability to walk to Old Town. Tom was amazing answering any questions we had.
4.8
This was my second stay at the George Washington Townhouse, and it did not disappoint! This house is in a perfect location, and the history is amazing. Tom is an excellent host who is communicative and accommodating. I would definitely recommend this property if you want to enjoy all that Alexandria and DC has to offer!
4.8
My wife, son and I had a wonderful time in this beautiful home for our Thanksgiving holiday. Great location and a beautiful home to stay in!
4.8
Wonderful location and comfy rooms
4.8
What I would have liked to know before we stayed: the GW house does not have comfortable furnishings, the third bed was basically in the kitchen, the showers (and bathrooms were small),
We had to buy dishwasher tablets, dish soap, laundry soap. Doors were very sticky/tricky.
But history galore! If that’s what you are after!!
4.8
Very convenient to King Street. One 1/2 block to King and great restaurants and shopping. Wonderful host. Can call anytime and be answered immediately. The only thing I would have preferred be a little better is bricks in back courtyard were uneven. I just had my knee replaced and I had to be very careful walking around out there. The weather was beautiful so we had breakfast in courtyard. Nice atmosphere out there.
4.8
Very convenient to King Street. One 1/2 block to King and great restaurants and shopping. Wonderful host. Can call anytime and be answered immediately. The only thing I would have preferred be a little better is bricks in back courtyard were uneven. I just had my knee replaced and I had to be very careful walking around out there. The weather was beautiful so we had breakfast in courtyard. Nice atmosphere out there.
4.8
Perfect location in Alexandria with dedicated parking spots for the unit. The property is a living museum and fun to look at the antiques and memorabilia. The bathroom was a bit cramped. The back patio needs some TLC.
4.8
The location and the house was perfect!
4.8
The place was amazing.
4.8
We enjoyed staying at the townhouse. It was so close we walked to dinner most evenings. Alexandria is such a nice place to walk around. Highly recommend the ghost and graveyard tour! They walk by the house and talk about it. We got to say we were staying there! Very fun.
4.8
Location Location Location, fantastic quick trip to Old Town. This historic property is situated in a great location and had everything we needed. Owner was very responsive, would definitely stay again.
4.8
As far as location everything was great. House needs some attention to repairs. .back door screens door handle was broke. Back courtyard could use some TLC. Bathtub upstairs either needs to be fixed or removed. Dishwasher cabinet fell off I taped it to keep it in place. Otherwise we enjoyed our stay. It was a very clean house and convenient to everything. Thank you
4.8
Beautiful historic house. Only disappointment was outside space was not as pictured. Looks like they recently had to remove some large trees.
4.8
My husband, 11-year-old, and I had a fantastic stay at the George Washington townhouse. Tom was an ideal host--responsive, thoughtful, and knowledgable. We had an issue one day we were there, and he showed up within minutes. The location in Old Town is perfect...although there's some street noise in the morning, so just be prepared to turn on some white noise. If you've wanted to stay in Old Town--and especially if you love history--you won't find anywhere better. We'd stay again in a heartbeat.
4.8
If you have mobility issues or an eye for detail and can’t overlook the deferred maintenance, this may not be the place.
If you love history and want the best location imaginable (especially for multiple people for the price), then this is a great place.
The courtyard was nice. If maintained, it would be a big perk as well.
4.8
I have stayed at this residence on many occasions because it combines all the comforts of home just outside our nation's capitol and in the lovely area of Old Town Alexandria. And for those history buffs - the home's history and decor are part of the charms! All without sacrificing essential modern conveniences.
We have particularly liked the neighborhood and its proximity to restaurants, the riverfront and the added bonus of private parking.
Additionally, the check in/out process is seamless and interaction with the host is easy and prompt! Should your travel plans include a trip to the area - I highly recommend the Washington House!
4.8
Great location! Easy check in.
Nice having on site parking
The patio is a restful oasis
4.8
Great location within walking distance to most attractions. Beautifully and appropriately decorated. A unique opportunity to experience and imagine Old town Alexandria as it would have been in Washington's time in this replica townhome on his own property. Upkeep could have been better and the property needs and warrants some TLC due to it's historical significance - however I would still highly recommend.
4.8
great
4.8
Smooth rental transaction, great communication. Perfect location!
4.8
Location is perfect - there is a wine and beer shop right around the corner and a neighborhood bar called the Old Hat within walking distance. Old Town Waterfront is a seven minute walk. The home itself is like living in a museum. Recommend for couples. Uber to D.C. is a fifteen minute ride. All in all it was great fun and a kick to stay on George's old property.
4.8
Cozy and comfortable historic home in the best location for access to old town Alexandria. Parking on site was appreciated however we were able to and chose to walk everywhere. My friends and I would definitely stay here again. Best place to access Alexandria!
4.8
The Geo. Washington replica house in Old Town Alexandria, VA, was perfect for us. Two full bedrooms separated by a bath on the top floor, plus a pull-out sofa bed and full bath on the basement/kitchen floor. In between, was a charming ground-level floor made up of a large sitting area and dining area. The entire house is decorated with tributes to George Washington. It is located on a lot once owned by Geo. Washington, perfectly in the center of Old Town. Everything is within easy walking distance, and downtown Washington, DC is only a short Metro ride or drive (four miles) away. The owner, Tom, is easy to work with and a gracious host. We highly recommend it.
4.8
A wonderful Thanksgiving with family was spent in a terrific location rich with history.
4.8
Such a sense of history…While the bottom floor kitchen/den is cozy and casual, the more formal middle floor gives a feeling of elegance. It is true that it is a tourist stop; on the Saturday night we were there several costumed tours stopped by the front of the house. Just a reminder of what an honor it was to actually stay overnight. I have been lucky enough to stay in some historically significant sites such as Elvis Presley’s teenage apartment at Lauderdale Courts in Memphis and the Lizzie Borden House in Fall River. Now I can add the George Washington Townhome in old Town Alexandria to the list!
4.8
Perfect location if you don’t want to stay in DC. One block from Alexandria’s King St and bus connection to Metro for trip into DC. Clean. Bedrooms are on the 2nd floor, galley kitchen/family room is in the English basement; stairs could be challenging for some. As others have suggested, some very minor repairs would make this place really shine, but overall it was perfectly comfortable for relaxing after a day of siteseeing. Review the welcome email to ensure you bring personal items not included. Shopping on King St for anything forgotten. Great farmers market on Sat worth checking out.
4.8
This location was perfect for exploring Alexandria. The main floor of the house is beautifully decorated. The bed was very comfortable. You generally sacrifice some things when choosing a historical property over a luxury one. We felt the few sacrifices we made-like preferring a larger more luxurious shower -were well worth the trade offs for the exceptional location and ability to have off street parking. Great restaurants nearby so we never used the kitchen but it seemed well equipped.
4.8
Now I can tell my grandkids that at GW's home "grandpa slept here"
4.8
We enjoyed our weeks long stay at George Washington’s Town Office/house. Great location. Restaurants and beyond nearby. Well equipped kitchen. Super living space for reading with up to date television and streaming services. Excellent sleeping. Highly recommend. Lots of stairs and frequent tourists visiting the street of the house - that were not an issue for us at all.
4.8
I recently stayed at the GW townhouse and it made our trip to Old Town Alexandria! The location is perfect, the property is immaculate and, as an extra bonus, every local ghost or history tour stops at the house (it is in no way bothersome and actually makes u feel special for staying there!) I can’t say enough good things. If u plan to visit, u must stay here. U can easily walk to all the important sites, restaurants and shops. The beds are comfortable and the house is fully equipped, although we did eat out every night. The courtyard in the back is a nice bonus! I highly recommend this beautiful property!
4.8
Perfect location, clean home and responsive owner. We had a great time.
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Alexandria?
The average price for a rental in Alexandria is $337 per night. This rental is $210 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at George Washington Town House in Old Town Alexandria - Walk to Everything!. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is George Washington Town House in Old Town Alexandria - Walk to Everything! pet friendly?
Yes! This house is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at George Washington Town House in Old Town Alexandria - Walk to Everything!?
We found 11 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, pets allowed, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and parking.