Gadsby's Tavern Museum

The two 18th-century taverns that make up Gadsby’s Tavern Museum capture the changing landscape of the early United States. Through tours, programs, and special events, learn about this complex time.
Page updated on February 2, 2023 at 3:54 PM

Gadsby's Tavern Museum

Gadsby's Tavern Museum consists of two buildings, a ca. 1785 tavern and the 1792 City Tavern and Hotel. In those seven short years, the young Republic began to take shape through the conversations and choices being made in these tavern spaces. The impact of these choices and how far to extend power—political, economic, and social—is still being felt today. Named for Englishman John Gadsby who operated them from 1796 to 1808, the tavern businesses were central to Alexandria’s port-based economy, offering spaces to dine, entertain, and spend the night. A large enslaved labor force made Gadsby’s renowned hospitality possible. Notable patrons that enjoyed this hospitality included George and Martha Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and the marquis de Lafayette.

Closed February 9, 2023

The Museum will be closed Thursday, but will reopen for regular hours Friday, February 10. 

Special Programs at the Tavern

Birthnight Ball historic 20th century photograph

Marking the Birthnight Ball

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is famous in part because George Washington celebrated his Birthnight Ball there, but there’s so much more to the story! Join us for specialty tours or for a four-course curated dinner

Junior Docent Program Applications Now Open

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Visit Gadsby's Tavern Museum

Gadsby's Tavern Museum exterior

Plan Your Visit

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is open Saturday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m., and Thursday - Friday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. This page has admission information, tour options, and directions to assist in planning your visit.

Gadsby's Tavern Online Tour Welcome Panel

Tour Museum Online

The online tour of these two taverns - the 1785 tavern and the 1792 City Tavern - explores power in the new Republic and its impact on people.

Ball Room set for event with tables

Rentals and Private Events

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum was the center of Alexandria’s social scene in the 18th century—and now these historic rooms are available to you and your guests for your own historic event!

Learn More about Gadsby's Tavern Museum

Gadsb'ys Tavern and City Hotel during the Civil War,Alexandria Library, Special Collections

History of Gadsby's Tavern Museum

Learn of the centuries of history at this corner of N. Royal and Cameron Streets.

Historic Alexandria Educational Resources

Educational Resources

Resources for students and educators to use at home

John Gadsby's Silver Collection

Gadsby's Collections

From ceramics to furniture, each object tells the story of the evolution of hospitality in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Support Gadsby's Tavern Museum

Gadsby Volunteers

Volunteer

If you are interested in history and enjoy meeting new people, you’ll love volunteering at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum!

Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society logo

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society

The Society is a not-for-profit organization formed to support the Museum.

Gadsby's Tavern Ballroom

Donate

Celebrate the power and impact of community philanthropy by supporting Gadsby's Tavern Museum and Historic Alexandria!

More Information

Contact the Museum

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

Contact the Museum (Alex311)

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Mission Statement

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum consists of two buildings, a (circa) 1785 tavern and the 1792 City Hotel and Tavern.  In recognition of our role as a historic resource for both residents of Alexandria and visitors, the mission of the museum is to teach the public about the history of the site, and to preserve the two historic structures.  Supported by on-going research and professional standards, the Museum’s programs, collections, and exhibitions create a varied and meaningful learning environment that addresses the needs and interests of our community’s residents and visitors.  Like the 18th-century purpose of the site, our goal is to play a dynamic role in the social, economic, and educational life of Alexandria, thus contributing to the City’s identity and vitality.