Captain’s Row in Old Town Alexandria: One of the Most Charming Streets in Virginia

If I had to choose my favorite street in Alexandria, Virginia, Captain’s Row on Prince Street would be very hard to beat.

Located on the 100 block of Prince Street in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, Captain’s Row is one of those rare places that immediately feels different. The historic cobblestones, centuries-old brick rowhomes, colorful front doors, shutters, mature trees, and lantern-style lighting create a streetscape that simply cannot be replicated with new construction.

For anyone considering living in Old Town Alexandria, Captain’s Row perfectly captures what makes this historic Northern Virginia community so distinctive.

The Short Version

Captain’s Row is a historic residential block along Prince Street in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, just steps from the Potomac River waterfront and a few blocks from King Street.

Its combination of historic architecture, cobblestones, waterfront proximity, and exceptional walkability makes it one of Old Town Alexandria’s most recognizable residential streets—and one of my personal favorites.

What Makes Captain’s Row So Special?

The first thing you'll probably notice is the street itself.

Unlike the paved streets surrounding much of Alexandria, this stretch of Prince Street retains its distinctive cobblestone surface. It immediately establishes the sense that you're walking through a neighborhood with a very different history.

Then there are the homes.

Historic brick rowhouses line both sides of the street, and no two feel exactly alike. Look closely and you'll find colorful doors, shutters, old brick, architectural details, mature landscaping, and individual touches that have accumulated over generations.

Every few feet, there seems to be another detail worth noticing.

Historic Architecture With Genuine Character

One reason Captain’s Row appeals to buyers is authenticity.

These aren't newly constructed homes designed to resemble historic properties. They are part of Old Town Alexandria's architectural fabric.

For buyers who appreciate historic homes, that character can be difficult to duplicate elsewhere in Northern Virginia.

Of course, owning an older property also requires understanding what comes with it. Renovation history, systems, maintenance, preservation considerations, and the condition of an individual home can vary considerably.

That's why two seemingly similar Old Town rowhomes can offer very different buying opportunities.

Residential Living in the Heart of Old Town Alexandria

Perhaps my favorite thing about Captain’s Row is the contrast between its location and atmosphere.

You're right in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, yet the street still feels wonderfully residential.

Step away from the block and you're only a short distance from the Alexandria waterfront and the restaurants, boutiques, cafés, and local businesses along King Street.

That combination is difficult to find: a historic residential setting where so much of daily life is accessible on foot.

Steps From the Alexandria Waterfront

Captain’s Row's proximity to the Potomac River is another major part of its appeal.

The Alexandria waterfront provides parks, walking areas, restaurants, public spaces, and views across the Potomac, all within easy reach of the neighborhood.

That means an ordinary day can include a morning walk along historic streets, coffee near King Street, an afternoon by the waterfront, and dinner without needing to leave Old Town.

For buyers prioritizing walkability in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, that's a compelling lifestyle.

What Do Homes on Captain’s Row Cost?

Homes along Captain’s Row rarely become available, and values can vary substantially based on the individual property.

As a general reference, homes on this distinctive stretch can command approximately $1.3 million to $2.5 million or more, depending on factors including size, condition, architectural character, renovation quality, outdoor space, and the specific home's history and features.

Because inventory is so limited, buyers interested specifically in Captain’s Row may need to be patient.

It's also worth expanding the search to surrounding streets in Old Town Alexandria, where similarly compelling historic properties can sometimes offer many of the same lifestyle advantages.

Living in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Captain’s Row may be particularly picturesque, but it's part of a much larger story.

Old Town Alexandria is one of Northern Virginia's most recognizable historic communities, offering a combination of residential architecture, waterfront access, restaurants, shopping, parks, and proximity to Washington, DC.

For buyers relocating to Alexandria, the appeal often goes beyond the individual house.

You're buying into a neighborhood where walking can genuinely become part of everyday life.

Coffee, dinner, shopping, the waterfront, parks, and neighborhood destinations can all become part of your regular routine.

Is Old Town Alexandria Right for You?

If your wish list includes history, architecture, walkability, local restaurants, waterfront access, and a neighborhood with a strong sense of place, Old Town Alexandria deserves serious consideration.

But Old Town isn't the only option.

Alexandria includes distinctive communities such as Del Ray, Rosemont, Seminary Hill, Beverly Hills, and numerous neighborhoods throughout Alexandria City and the surrounding Fairfax County portion of Alexandria.

Each offers a different combination of architecture, housing styles, lot sizes, transportation, amenities, and neighborhood atmosphere.

Finding the right Alexandria neighborhood starts with understanding how you actually want to live.

Explore Alexandria Like a Local

If you're considering moving to Alexandria—or simply want to explore more of the city beyond the best-known destinations—I've put together an Alexandria Local Guide featuring more places, neighborhoods, and local favorites worth knowing.

Explore My Alexandria Local Guide

LET'S CONNECT

Thinking about buying or selling a home in Old Town Alexandria or elsewhere in Alexandria, Virginia?

Let's connect.

I can help you compare Alexandria neighborhoods, understand the nuances of historic properties, evaluate current inventory, and identify the areas that best match your priorities for architecture, walkability, commuting, lifestyle, and long-term value.

CLICK HERE to connect and start building your plan.

Ken Trotter | Alexandria, Virginia Real Estate Advisor
Silver Line Group at TTR Sotheby's International Realty

Serving Old Town Alexandria, Del Ray, Rosemont, Seminary Hill, Alexandria City, Northern Virginia, and the greater Washington, DC Metro Area.

Luxury is not a price point—it's a level of service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Captain’s Row in Alexandria, Virginia?

Captain’s Row is located along the 100 block of Prince Street in historic Old Town Alexandria, close to the Potomac River waterfront and several blocks from King Street.

Why is Captain’s Row famous?

Captain’s Row is particularly recognizable for its historic cobblestone street and brick rowhouses. Its preserved architectural character makes it one of Old Town Alexandria's most distinctive residential blocks.

How much do homes on Captain’s Row cost?

Values vary significantly depending on the individual property, but homes can command roughly $1.3 million to $2.5 million or more based on size, condition, renovations, architecture, and other property-specific characteristics.

Is Captain’s Row walkable to King Street?

Yes. Captain’s Row is only a few blocks from King Street and is also very close to the Alexandria waterfront, providing convenient pedestrian access to restaurants, shops, cafés, parks, and other Old Town destinations.

Are homes frequently available on Captain’s Row?

No. Captain’s Row is a relatively small residential stretch, so opportunities to purchase directly on the block can be limited. Buyers interested in this type of historic property may also want to consider nearby streets throughout Old Town Alexandria.