Where Work Meets Play: Old Town Alexandria

You may “officially” be here on a business trip, but it doesn’t mean your stay in Alexandria has to be all work and no play. After all, a little pampering and indulgence ultimately leads to higher productivity and, we’ve found, a happier you.

Just a few miles down the road from Washington, DC is charming and historic Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. With a highly walkable layout and an abundance of alluring venues, Old Town puts a bounty of coffee shops, eateries, bars and workout spaces at your fingertips. We’ve rounded up ways to enjoy your visit, even in the midst of brainstorming and networking.

Alexandria’s streets are lined with beautiful historic facades.

Rise & Shine

Get your extra a.m. jolt at nearby spots like Misha’s on King Street or Swings Coffee, an airy, window-filled venue in Del Ray that features ethically-sourced, single-origin coffee; think pour overs, espresso and cold-brew iced coffee. Combine your coffee buzz and a sugar high at Killer ESP (Espresso Sorbet Pie), Dolci Gelati, a calming space next to the Alexandria Visitor Center that serves all-natural Italian gelato and sorbet and Sugar Shack, known equally for its specialty coffee, espresso and brews as its rotating selection of delectable donuts. Pro-tip: after hours you can sweeten your mood even more at Captain Gregory’s, Sugar Shack’s on-site speakeasy.

Burn Off Steam

After extended periods of hunched concentration, do your body (and mind!) a favor by making a move toward the picturesque Mount Vernon Trail; travel the waterfront path on foot, or borrow a bike from either Kimpton or Capital Bikeshare. Solo travelers and groups can enjoy rolling out on tours and adventures with Bike and Roll DC.

Cycling along Alexandria’s scenic Potomac waterfront is an ideal way to get some sunshine.

When you’re looking for inspiration indoors, sweat it out at Lorien Hotel & Spa’s gym, use our complimentary Gaiam yoga mat in each room or take advantage of our relationship with local venues like Pilates ProWorks and Pure Prana Yoga. Other studios close by that will help maintain your fitness routine include Orange Theory and Xtend Barre Old Town. And if you’re an exercise enthusiast who likes finish-line incentives, try Port City Brewing Company’s pint-fueled programs like “Joggers and Lagers” and “BeerYoga.” Those who find rejuvenation in the spa, will love Lorien Spa’s quick 25-minute, pick-me-up treatments that include massages, foot scrubs and facials.

Power Dining Done Right

Keep your momentum going with tasty fare at our restaurants BRABO Tasting Room and BRABO by Robert Wiedmaier. Here Chef de Cuisine Harper McClure infuses traditional Belgian dishes with contemporary, seasonal twists that will seal any business deal. Try highlights like the Royal Sea Bass, Herb-Crusted Chicken Roulade or the Smoked Pennsylvania Berkshire Porchetta, served with poached plums, shaved fennel and creamy polenta. Settle into the dining room at the custom-hammered copper bar, or sip a glass of wine on an outdoor patio.

BRABO’s interior incorporates traditional materials, like brick and copper.

Other nearby spots include Hank’s Oyster Bar with its focus on locally-sourced seafood and Magnolia’s on King, offering Southern immersion cuisine. For a quick grab-and-go meal, pick up gourmet goods from Victorian-themed Society Fair. If the weather’s right, eat near the Alexandria waterfront, in Market Square and in front of the U.S. Patent and Trademark building, where you’ll find WiFi for those last-minute emails.

Revived and Refreshed

After soaking up Alexandria’s relaxed atmosphere, build some more R&R into your day by staying overnight. End the evening with a twilight stroll through Old Town, then put your feet up at the Kimpton Lorien Hotel & Spa before heading to the metropolis.

The living room at the Lorien Hotel & Spa is an inviting place to kick back and put your feet up.

With excellent proximity to the Metro and downtown DC, there’s every reason to enjoy Alexandria the next time business travel takes you to the nation’s capital. You’ll leave with your tank full, imagination sparked and desire heightened to visit us again soon.