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 Oct 4, 2017 at 10:11 AM
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.

Virtual Tour

See the Public Dining Room of Gadsby's Tavern Museum on the VisitAlexandria 360 virtual tour.

What's New

  • On Saturday, October 7, the Museum will be closed starting at 3 p.m. for a private event. 

  • Volunteer docents needed!  Training is flexible and minimum commitment is one tour shift (2-4 hours) per month.  Start the process by submitting an application .
  • 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 entry: 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 entry: 4:45 p.m.

During Museum hours, guests are welcome to walk through anytime with a self-guided tour. Guided tours are offered at select times throughout the day. For more information, refer to our Plan your Visit page. 

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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