Founders Park

Riverside Escape

Nestled along the Potomac River in Old Town Alexandria, Founders Park offers 4.67 acres of waterfront tranquility that feels worlds away from city life. This green space offers a pleasant backdrop for watching boats drift by, spotting local wildlife, or catching the occasional plane from nearby DCA as it soars overhead.

We've found this spot to be a good place to take a break from a hectic day - just find a patch of grass, face the water, and enjoy the river views. The well-kept grounds add to the experience.

Wander & Explore

Grassy open spaces blend with winding paved paths throughout the park. These paths connect to the larger Mount Vernon Trail network, perfect if you're in the mood for a longer riverside journey by foot or bike.

The charming boardwalk trail hugging the shoreline makes for an especially pleasant stroll. Locals often come here for daily walks, quick jogs, or to enjoy the peaceful waterfront setting.

Park Perks

Dog parents will appreciate the off-leash dog exercise area in the northwest corner. Just note that this space isn't fenced and sits near a busy intersection - so your four-legged friend should have reliable recall skills before roaming freely here.

If you're feeling active, grab some friends for a game at the sand volleyball court, which hosts many impromptu matches when the weather's nice. When nature calls, portable restrooms are available across the grounds and kept surprisingly clean.

Tucked away within the landscape, a small garden area adds a touch of color and offers quiet nooks for reflection or reading.

Things to Do

The spacious lawns are great for picnics. You can pack a lunch and enjoy dining with a view of the Potomac River. You'll discover several benches scattered around if sitting on the ground isn't your thing.

Kids have plenty of room to run and play, making this a family-friendly destination. The park also represents a community gathering space, occasionally hosting special events - including New Year's Eve fireworks that light up the waterfront.

A Bit of Background

What's now a peaceful green retreat was once an industrial site until 1978, when it transformed into the public park we enjoy today. The City of Alexandria maintains the grounds with help from the Founders Park Community Association, whose volunteer efforts include regular cleanups and community events.

The park's consistently clean, well-maintained condition reflects the community's care for this space. Its convenient location near Old Town's shops and restaurants makes it an easy add-on to any Alexandria adventure.

Good to Know

The park welcomes visitors daily from 5AM to 10PM. Parking can be tricky, with limited street spots along Union Street. You'll get 2-hour parking Monday through Saturday, while Sundays offer free parking without time restrictions.

While Founders Park shines brightest during spring and summer, its waterfront charm persists year-round for anyone seeking a peaceful riverside moment.