When the weather warms up in Alexandria, there is nothing better than enjoying a drink outside. Whether you are looking for waterfront views along the Potomac, a cozy wine bar tucked into Old Town, or a lively patio in Del Ray, Alexandria has plenty of great spots to relax outdoors.
From long-time favorites to newer additions around the city, here are some of our favorite outdoor bars in Alexandria right now.
Outdoor Bars in Old Town Alexandria
BARCA Pier & Wine Bar
2 Pioneer Mill Way
If you want the full waterfront experience, BARCA is hard to beat. Located on a pier at Robinson Landing, this Spanish-inspired wine bar sits right over the Potomac River and offers stunning sunset views.
Expect sangria, Spanish wines, creative cocktails, and shareable plates. It is one of the best spots in Alexandria for a relaxed afternoon drink or a lively evening on the water.
Vola’s Dockside Grill & Hi-Tide Lounge
101 N Union St
Vola’s is another Old Town waterfront staple. The outdoor seating here puts you right along the river, making it a perfect stop for happy hour or a casual evening out.
Grab a cocktail, oysters, or a seafood dish and enjoy the boats passing by along the Potomac.
Speaking of Happy Hours, check out our Best Happy Hours in Old Town Alexandria post.
Ada’s on the River
3 Pioneer Mill Way
Ada’s has one of the most beautiful outdoor patios in Alexandria. The modern waterfront restaurant pairs great cocktails with wood-fired dishes and river views.
While it is primarily a restaurant, it is still a fantastic spot to grab a drink outside before dinner or meet friends for cocktails.
Blackwall Hitch
5 Cameron St
Blackwall Hitch offers one of the largest waterfront patios in the heart of Old Town. The outdoor space includes lounge seating, fire pits, and river views.
Virtue Feed & Grain
106 S Union St
Virtue is a longtime Old Town favorite with a large outdoor patio right near the waterfront. The bar focuses on craft cocktails, whiskey, and local beers.
It is always lively and one of the best people-watching patios in the neighborhood.
Fontaine Caffe & Creperie
119 S Royal St
Fontaine is a charming European-style café and wine bar tucked along a quiet Old Town street. Its outdoor seating area makes it a perfect spot for a glass of wine, beer, or a cocktail on a warm afternoon.
It feels a little more intimate than some of the larger bars nearby.
Hank’s Oyster Bar
818 N St Asaph St
Hank’s features a popular rooftop bar and patio in Old Town North. The rooftop lounge is first come, first served and is a great place to enjoy cocktails, oysters, and small plates with friends. It’s our favorite oyster spot in town, but has other great dishes as well, like the ceviche.
Craving something different? Check out these posts for more ways to enjoy Alexandria:
- The Best Pizza in Alexandria and Beyond
- Best Coffee Shops in Alexandria
- Best Spots for Lunch in Old Town Alexandria
LaPluma Coffee & Wine Bar
1000 Cameron St
LaPluma is one of Alexandria’s newer and more unique spots. During the day it operates as a coffee shop, and in the evening it transitions into a wine bar.
The patio seating makes it a great place for a relaxed drink while enjoying the neighborhood atmosphere.
The Pier Bar
1A Prince St
For one of the most unique outdoor drinking spots in Alexandria, head to The Pier Bar. This floating bar sits right on the water at the foot of King Street.
Grab a cocktail, beer, or wine and enjoy some of the best waterfront views in Old Town.
Jula’s on the Potomac
44 Canal Center Plaza, Suite 401
Jula’s is one of the newer additions to the Alexandria waterfront dining scene. Located near Robinson Landing, it offers a stylish outdoor patio with views of the Potomac River.
It is a great place for cocktails, wine, or dinner outside while enjoying the waterfront atmosphere.
Good Fortune Rooftop Bar
Hotel Heron — 699 Prince St
Located on top of Hotel Heron, Good Fortune is one of Alexandria’s newest rooftop bars. The rooftop offers cocktails, small plates, and sweeping views of Old Town.
It is quickly becoming a popular spot for sunset drinks and evenings out in the city.
Outdoor Bars in Del Ray
The Garden
1503 Mount Vernon Ave
The Garden is one of the best outdoor hangouts in Del Ray. The large patio space features draft beers, cocktails, food, and plenty of room to gather with friends.
It is casual, lively, and dog-friendly, making it a favorite neighborhood spot.
Evening Star Cafe (The Front Porch)
2000 Mount Vernon Ave
Evening Star’s Front Porch patio is a Del Ray classic. Located right on Mount Vernon Avenue, it is the perfect place to grab a drink and enjoy the neighborhood energy.
It is especially great for happy hour or a relaxed evening outside.
Matt & Tony’s All Day Kitchen + Bar
1501 Mount Vernon Ave
Matt & Tony’s is a popular Del Ray restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere and outdoor seating along Mount Vernon Avenue.
Whether you are stopping by for brunch, happy hour, or dinner, it is a great spot to enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine outside.
Lost Boy Cider
317 Hooffs Run Dr
Lost Boy Cider offers a spacious taproom and outdoor patio where you can enjoy locally made cider. The space frequently hosts events, live music, and gatherings, making it a fun place to meet up with friends.
Final Thoughts
Alexandria has an incredible outdoor bar scene, especially during the spring, summer, and early fall. Whether you prefer waterfront cocktails in Old Town or neighborhood patios in Del Ray, there is no shortage of great places to grab a drink outside.
Did we miss one of your favorite outdoor bars in Alexandria? Let us know. We are always looking for new local spots to add to our list.
Want to explore more of what makes Alexandria such a great place to live? Start with these local guides below:
- The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Alexandria
- Explore Alexandria Neighborhoods
- Del Ray Neighborhood Guide
- Things to Know About Buying a Waterfront Condo or Home in Alexandria
Thinking About Moving to Alexandria?
One of the best parts of living in Alexandria is the lifestyle. Walkable neighborhoods, waterfront views, incredible restaurants, and great local bars are all part of what makes this city so special.
If you are thinking about buying or selling a home in Alexandria, our team would love to help!
Sue Goodhart | sue@thegoodhartgroup.com
Allison Goodhart DuShuttle | allison@thegoodhartgroup.com
Phone: 703-362-3221
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