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Here’s What to Do + See in Old Town Alexandria After Family Portraits at the Studio! | NOVA Family Photographer

Studio Oronoco in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

I love that my favorite studio is nestled in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. Not only is it a beautiful backdrop for your Baby Minis, Personality Portraits, or your next family, maternity or newborn session, it’s prime location also allows you and your family to enjoy a variety of fun, family-friendly activities.

Your Family-Friendly Guide to Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Here’s an itinerary that pairs your stress-free portrait session with the best kid-friendly activities and dining options in the area. Whether you want to grab coffee, explore parks, or enjoy sweet treats, we’ve got you covered!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY BREAKFAST + COFFEE

Image Source: Northern Virginia Magazine

Breakfast & Coffee ☕🥞

Option 1: St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub
A neighborhood favorite with plenty of space for kids to wiggle around, plus delicious coffee for parents and pastries to fuel up.

Option 2: Misha’s Coffee
Grab a fantastic latte and pastry to-go at this local coffee shop known for its laid-back vibe. Perfect for parents looking for a caffeine fix!

Option 3: Table Talk
A classic diner with hearty breakfast options like pancakes, waffles, and scrambled eggs that will please even the pickiest eaters.

Option 4: Cheesetique (Del Ray)
If you’re craving something different, try their kid-friendly breakfast bites like grilled cheese and scrambled eggs in a cozy atmosphere.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY THINGS TO DO

Image source: The Zebra Press

Kid-Friendly Activities 🎨🚂

Option 1: The Little Theatre of Alexandria
Check out their schedule for family-friendly plays and performances, providing a great way to introduce kids to the magic of theater.

Option 2: Hooray for Books!
This independent children’s bookstore hosts regular storytime events and offers a treasure trove of picture books and kids’ novels. It’s a great stop for book lovers!

Option 3: Scramble (Indoor Play Space)
Located just outside Alexandria, this European-style indoor play space is perfect for kids to burn off energy with climbing walls, tunnels, and slides.

Option 4: KidCreate Studio
A drop-in art studio where kids can get creative with painting, clay, and other crafts. Perfect for a hands-on activity that lets your child’s imagination run wild.

Option 5: Jones Point Park
A scenic hidden gem along the Potomac River with playgrounds, bike paths, and picnic areas. A great place for kids to stretch their legs!

Option 6: Alderleaf Consignment
A well-curated kids’ consignment shop where you might find toys, clothes, or books at a great price.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY THINGS TO SEE

Image source: Visit Alexandria

Kid-Friendly Things to See 🏛️👀

Option 1: The King Street Trolley
Hop on and off this free trolley that runs up and down King Street. Kids will love the ride, and it’s a fun and easy way to explore Old Town Alexandria.

Option 2: The Spite House (Narrowest House in America)
Snap a quirky family photo in front of this super narrow house—it’s one of the fun, little-known landmarks in Alexandria.

Option 3: Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
Explore this historic tavern, where you can take a kid-friendly tour to learn about Alexandria’s rich history in a way that’s engaging for younger visitors.

Option 4: Torpedo Factory Art Center
Wander through this working art gallery with your family. Some artists even offer kid-friendly art activities where they can create their own masterpieces.

Option 5: The Waterfront & Founders Park
A great spot for a stroll along the Potomac River with views, fountains, and even a small beach area where the kids can dip their toes in.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY SWEET-TREATS

Image source: ALXnow

Kid-Friendly Snacks & Ice Cream 🍦🍪

Option 1: Pop’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream
Treat your family to some classic, homemade ice cream with a variety of flavors. It’s a nostalgic stop that everyone will enjoy.

Option 2: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Unique and indulgent flavors that both kids and adults will love. Perfect for a refreshing stop on a warm day!

Option 3: Buzz Bakeshop
A local favorite for cupcakes, cookies, and other pastries. Pick up a sweet treat for the whole family to enjoy while you explore Old Town.

Option 4: Dolci Gelati
Offering fantastic gelato with kid-approved flavors like cookies & cream and birthday cake. A great place for a quick and tasty snack!

Option 5: Goodies Frozen Custard
For a nostalgic treat, visit the vintage ice cream truck and enjoy frozen custard in flavors everyone can agree on.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY DINNER

Image Source: Trip Advisor

Kid-Friendly Dinner 🍽️

Option 1: RedRocks Neapolitan Bistro
Who doesn’t love pizza? This kid-friendly bistro serves up delicious Neapolitan pizzas with options the little ones will adore.

Option 2: Virtue Feed & Grain
This casual spot offers a great kids’ menu and is perfect for a laid-back family dinner in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Option 3: The Majestic
A cozy yet family-friendly spot with comfort food that’s sure to make everyone feel right at home. Think burgers, sandwiches, and hearty entrees.

Option 4: South Block
If you’re looking for something lighter and healthier, South Block offers smoothie bowls, sandwiches, and fresh juice options—great for kids who want something nutritious but still delicious.

Option 5: Chadwicks
A casual riverside restaurant with burgers, sandwiches, and a kids’ menu. A great spot for dining with a view!


Why Old Town Alexandria?

Old Town Alexandria isn’t just home to Studio Oronoco—it’s a vibrant area of Northern Virginia filled with charming streets, historic sites, and kid-friendly attractions that make it the perfect destination for a family outing. Whether you’re exploring the waterfront, grabbing a scoop of gelato, or checking out a play, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.


Ready to Book Your Session?

Make your family portrait session the highlight of a fun, memorable day in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia! Book your session now to secure your spot and start planning your family adventure. 

No session available yet? Be sure to join my email list for updates on when these mini-session days are launched.

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