Overview
Gadsby's Tavern Museum is a historic site in Alexandria, Virginia, offering a glimpse into the 18th-century lifestyle. This museum features period rooms and exhibits that highlight the tavern's role in colonial and federal America, including its famous guests like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
Gadsby's Tavern was a prominent social and political hub, hosting notable figures and events during the founding of the United States.
Location
Address
134 N. Royal St., Alexandria, Virginia
Neighborhood: Old Town Alexandria
Coordinates
38.806800, -77.052400
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • spring gardens
- • historical reenactments
summer
hot and humid
- • extended summer hours
- • outdoor exhibits
autumn
cool and crisp
- • fall foliage
- • holiday decorations
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
- • indoor exhibits
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check updated hours
- Book guided tours in advance
- Dress appropriately for weather
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (walking on cobblestone and uneven surfaces)
- • stairs in some areas
- • crowded spaces during peak hours
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit/debit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes or sneakers, inappropriate or revealing clothing, high heels
Booking Tips
- • 2-3 weeks for guided tours
- • official website or authorized partners
- • 24 hours in advance for refunds
- • available for online ticket purchases
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Gadsby's Tavern Museum App
Size: 40 MB
Features: Interactive maps, Audio guides, Tickets and tours, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe area
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 15-20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 10 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: A piece of living history, well-preserved and educational
Historical Significance: Hosted significant events and figures of early American history
Insider Tips
- Free entry on certain holidays
- Local legends and ghost stories from staff
- Best views from the garden in the evening
Local Recommendations
- • Try the local coffee at nearby cafes
- • Ask staff for insider stories
- • Visit the nearby waterfront for additional sights
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Front facade of the tavern
Best Time: Golden hour in the morning
Tips: Capture the brickwork and colonial architecture
Result: Iconic photo of the historic building
Garden and courtyard
Best Time: Spring and fall
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the full view
Result: Beautiful garden settings with seasonal flowers
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Torpedo Factory Art Center
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Art Museum
Alexandria Waterfront Park
Distance: 1.2km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Park
Mount Vernon Trail
Distance: 500m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Scenic Trail
Carlyle House
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Historic House
Reviews
Based on 850 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book a guided tour"
- "Visit on weekdays"
- "Check for special events"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
12
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
850
Adult Entry
$10