Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

Take a moment to journey back to the 18th-century tavern and hotel where famous historical figures and everyday people dined and slept. Through tours, program, and special events, learn about the history, architecture, decorative arts, social customs, food, and clothing of this changing time in American history.

Page updated on Jun 23, 2016 at 12:57 PM
Gadsby's Tavern Museum

Gadsby's Tavern Museum consists of two buildings, a ca. 1785 tavern and the 1792 City Hotel. The buildings are named for Englishman John Gadsby who operated them from 1796 to 1808. Mr. Gadsby's establishment was a center of political, business, and social life in early Alexandria. The tavern was the setting for dancing assemblies, theatrical and musical performances, and meetings of local organizations. George Washington enjoyed the hospitality provided by tavernkeepers and twice attended the annual Birthnight Ball held in his honor. Other prominent patrons included John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, and the Marquis de Lafayette.

What's New

  • Are you a Girl Scout Leader? Start planning for next year with our Journeys and Special Events.  New this year - program for the Brownie Girl Scout Journey Wonders of Water. Tickets go on sale August 1.   
  • Restoration of the Ice Well is officially complete! Learn more about the Ice Well Restoration or see the progress through the Museum's Facebook page.  
  • Visit the Historic Alexandria Calendar for a full list of events.

History at your Fingertips

  • Receive Tavern-E Times eNews.  To receive information about Gadsby’s Tavern Museum programs, special events, and more, update your subscription or subscribe to  Alexandria eNews.
  • Like us on Facebook and be the first to hear about the news of the day!
  • Follow Mr. Gadsby on Twitter!
  • See the Museum in a new light through Instagram.
  • Explore, learn, and share on the Museum's Pinterest boards.
  • See what other visitors are saying about Gadsby's Tavern Museum on  TripAdvisor.

Other Important Links

Address

Gadsby's Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street 
Alexandria, Virginia 22314 
Phone: 703.746.4242 
Fax: 703.838.4270 
Email 

Museum Hours

November to March:
Wednesday to Saturday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 
Sunday: 1 - 4 p.m. 
Monday and Tuesday: Closed 
Last tour: At 3:45 p.m. 
Closed: New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas

April to October:
Tuesday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
Sunday and Monday: 1 - 5 p.m. 
Last tour: At 4:45 p.m.

During Museum hours, guided tours start at a quarter after the hour and a quarter before the hour and last approximately 30 minutes. Note that some tour times are not available due to special events at the museum. Please call in advance or check the homepage for more information.

Office Hours

Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., by appointment only

National Historic Landmark  |  National Register of Historic Places 

American Alliance of Museums logo  National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom logo Save America's Treasures

 

American Alliance of Museums
Accredited Museum  

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