Washington, D.C.: The Other Side of The Potomac

The juxtaposition of the 18th century colonial architecture and the modern chain stores in Georgetown can detract from the charm of this popular neighborhood. Its aesthetic and history are unique and yet it's become a giant sale for the same commodities that are being advertised in malls across America. It's worthy of a few hours, but if you're looking for a similar experience without all the trend seeking shoppers head to Old Town in Alexandria, Virginia. It's right off the last stop on the metro out of Washington. From there you hop on a picturesque little trolley which takes you into the center of this historic area built in 1749. 

Urban Art at The Torpedo Factory

Here instead of Victoria's Secret, Barney's, and Ralph Lauren, you'll find small boutiques with arts and crafts handmade by local designers. This neighborhood is also home to The Torpedo Factory which in and of itself attracts 500,000 art lovers annually. This collective of galleries, studios, and workshops was originally built by the U.S. Navy during World War I as a factory for...wait for it...building torpedos! Now, 165 professional visual artists create and display everything from stained glass to photography in this contemporary warehouse.

Just down the way from the main stretch of businesses is a serene park looking out over the Potomac. Grab a scoop at Pop's Old Fashioned Ice Cream before heading on a stroll by the waterfront. Their creamy classics slowly churned in house have made this parlor an Old Town establishment for decades. While you're standing at the river's edge, see if you can throw a silver dollar from Virginia to D.C. According to an old folk tale, George Washington did it from this very spot.