Armory Tot Lot

A Glimpse Into the Past

Set in Old Town Alexandria, Armory Tot Lot earned its name from quite the historical predecessor - the National Guard's Armory Hall that stood here from 1880 until a fire claimed it in 1953.

After the Armory building met its fiery end, this cozy 0.18-acre space transformed into a children's playground in the early 1950s. Since then, it's been a dedicated play haven for the littlest adventurers, particularly those energetic 2-5 year olds who need a safe space to burn off some energy.

Tiny Explorer Paradise

Though small in size, this compact playground packs in plenty of fun for the preschool crowd. The centerpiece is a play structure complete with slides that provide just the right amount of thrill for tiny explorers. The baby swings are meant for the youngest visitors who are still mastering the art of sitting upright.

Kids seem to gravitate toward the sandbox - something about digging and building never goes out of style with the toddler set. What makes this playground extra special is the collection of community-shared tricycles and push cars that have been left behind for everyone to enjoy. It's like having toys without having to lug them from home!

Wood chips cover the ground throughout the play area, offering a forgiving surface for wobbly new walkers. The entire playground is fenced in, giving parents peace of mind while allowing little ones some sense of independence as they explore.

Comfort in the Shade

Thankfully, large trees spread their canopy over much of the park, providing welcome shade during those sweltering Virginia summer days. You'll come across several benches tucked into these shaded spots - perfect perches for keeping an eye on your little one while maybe sneaking in a few pages of that book you've been trying to finish.

Just a heads-up: there are no restrooms on site, so plan accordingly. The picnic space is also limited - this is definitely more of a play-and-go spot than an all-day destination.

Finding Your Way

You'll come across this intimate park just two blocks south of Old Town's Market Square, making it an easy addition to a day of exploring Alexandria's historic district. If you're a local parent in need of a quick energy-burning stop or a visitor looking to give your toddler a break from sightseeing, Armory Tot Lot fits the bill.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 9:30PM. Its friendly, neighborhood vibe makes it not just a play space for kids, but also a casual meeting spot where parents and caregivers can connect while the little ones play.