Alexandria; near the Expo and the Start

Centrally located near the MCM Expo, packet pickup and the start and finish lines, Alexandria is an ideal spot to enjoy MCM Weekend. Just minutes away from the nation’s capital by metrorail and the National Harbor by water taxi. Old Town Alexandria’s rich history, unbeatable dining and diverse shopping options guarantee to delight all.

Here’s a list of the top things to do while in Alexandria for the MCM, along with the easiest ways to get to the expo and the start.

Thanks for visiting this archived blog. The content and details are specific only for the event year highlighted in this article. For current information, please visit the event page within the MCM website.

What to do and Where to Eat

• King Street Trolley & Stroll: Explore Old Town Alexandria’s main drag by strolling down King Street, lined with red brick and dotted with boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and pubs tucked into 18^th century architecture, alongside many a four-legged friend in this dog-friendly city.
• Old Town Waterfront: Set sail on a sightseeing trip aboard a riverboat, enjoy waterfront dining featuring gorgeous views of DC monuments or sample fresh seafood at Vola’s Dockside Grill.
• Distinctive Dining: Experience Alexandria’s booming culinary scene, from chef-driven restaurants like Carluccio’s and converted 18^th century warehouse Virtue Feed & Grain to craft brews from Port City Brewing Company.
• Take a tour: By boat, bike or on foot, explore Alexandria’s history, restaurants and waterfront on one of many unique tours, like a late night ghost tour or the Old Town Alexandria Food Tour.

• Torpedo Factory Art Center: See art in progress and in person at Alexandria’s Torpedo Factory Art Center, a former World War II torpedo plant converted into 82 working artist studios and six galleries.
• Trace George Washington’s footsteps: Venture to Washington’s favorite watering hole at Gadsby’s Tavern; peek into George and Martha’s pharmacy at Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum; or pay a visit to Washington’s pew at his local place of worship, Christ Church.
• Carb Load Before the Race: Check out our Top 8 Places to Carb Load Before the Big Race, including suggestions from local experts.

How to Get Around

Packet Pickup: Getting to Gaylord Convention Center

Water Taxi

There will be a special discount for the participants and their families who ride the Alexandria-National Harbor Water Taxi on Friday and Saturday, October 28 and 29. Just mention you are with the Marine Corps Marathon and you will get $1 off a one-way ticket and $2 off a round-trip ticket. In addition to the regular Water Taxi schedule, there will be additional morning trips leaving from Alexandria to National Harbor, including:

Friday, October 28 at 9:25 a.m.,

Saturday, October 29 at 8:05 a.m., 8:45 a.m., 9:25 a.m., 10:05 a.m.

MCM Day: Getting to Arlington

Free Shuttle

Guests staying at Alexandria hotels have access to a shuttle from King Street Metro to the race drop-off point. Priority will be given to runners, with shuttles running every 15 minutes from 5:15 a.m. to 6:45 a.m. Other runners and spectators will be accommodated if space is available.

Metro

Starting at 7:00 a.m., the Metro will operate under its normal Sunday schedule.

Click here for more information about visiting Alexandria during Marine Corps Marathon weekend.