Located in the Northwest quadrant of Old Town, the 40 block Parker-Gray district is one of two historic neighborhoods officially recognized by the City of Alexandria. The neighborhood takes its name from the Parker Gray School, which was opened in 1920 and was named for John Parker and Sarah Gray, late 19th-century Alexandria principals.
Parker-Gray District History
Parker-Gray has played a significant role in the history of Alexandria’s African-American community. The district became a haven for former slaves after the Civil War and served as a center of local African-American life in the 1950’s when racial segregation around town solidified Parker-Gray’s identify, then known as “Uptown.”
Parker-Gray District Real Estate
Today, Parker-Gray offers a mix of housing options, from historic buildings, including civil rights activist Samuel Tucker’s home, to brand new construction, including single family properties, condos and apartments in addition to its plentiful commercial options as well.
Parker-Gray District Favorites
Shopping, dining, and services abound in Parker-Gray. Mason Social offers a cocktail named for the neighborhood, the Parker-Gray, with house-infused earl grey Catoctin Creek rye, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Bastille’s menu features fine French fare such as escargot, coq au vin, or foie gras. Need to satisfy your sweet tooth? Sugar Shack is famous for its amazing variety of sinful donuts (fresh peach ginger, blueberry lavender, Butterfinger, and even Fruit Loop-topped!) Parker-Gray is also home to some fabulous fitness studios, including SolidCore and Zweet Sport fitness studio.
Discover more Old Town favorites in:
- The Southeast Quadrant of Old Town: Our Favorite Places
- The Southwest Quadrant of Old Town: Our Favorite Places
- The Northeast Quadrant of Old Town: Our Favorite Places
- The Northwest Quadrant of Old Town: Our Favorite Places
- Weekend Trip to Old Town Alexandria
- The Best Spots for Lunch in Old Town Alexandria
- The Most Romantic Restaurants in Old Town Alexandria
- Spending a Saturday in Old Town
- Top 10 Reasons to Live in Old Town
- Best Happy Hours in Old Town Alexandria
- The Best Seafood Restaurants in Old Town Alexandria
- The Best Things to Do in Old Town Alexandria
Discover more Alexandria favorites in:
- Fall Hiking in Alexandria and Where to go Apres Hiking
- Your Complete Guide to Living in Alexandria with Pets
- Is Alexandria Good for Commuters? Here’s What to Know!
- Alexandria Summer Guide
- Reasons to Move to Alexandria: A Perfect Blend of Work, Lifestyle, and Beauty
- The Beauty of Alexandria
- The Best Pizza in Alexandria and Beyond
- Best Happy Hours in Old Town Alexandria
- Complete List of Alexandria Playgrounds & Parks
- Biking and Trails in Alexandria
- The Best Sports Bars in Alexandria
- The Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Alexandria
- Best Burgers in Alexandria and Beyond
- The Best Coffee Shops in Alexandria
- The Best Breakfast Spots in Alexandria
Want to know what it’s like to live in the Parker-Gray district of Old Town? Let’s go on a neighborhood orientation tour!