For current dates of programs & events, check the
calendar of events or see below for additional information.
Open Houses
The Apothecary is open several times a year for free or reduced admission. In honor of National Pharmacy Month, the Museum hosts a free open house in October. The Museum also offers free tours the afternoon of President’s Day. On Mother’s and Father’s Day, the honored parent tours free.
Wonders of Science
In the 18th century, people’s understanding of the world around them and the medical sciences was rapidly changing as more discoveries were made. Experience the awe of these discoveries through Wonders of Science, a program that brings to life the experiments and discoveries that were shocking the world. Topics range from the natural sciences to “quack” medicine and are presented by Project Enlightenment, McLean High School's historical reenactment society. This program is ideal for grades three and older. Cost is $6 per person and tickets can be purchased through the online store.
Potions and Lotions
Groups can book a special one-hour program that includes a tour of the museum and the making and packaging individual vials of hand lotion. Ideal for scout groups, camps, and homeschool groups. Topics can be tailored to the interest or area of study of the group. Cost is $6 per person making lotion and $3 for accompanying chaperones. Please contact the Curator of Education to book this program.
The Real Science Behind Harry Potter
Every year, in honor of Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling’s birthday on July 31, the Museum hosts special tours exploring the real world of science and medicine behind the books. Find out if dragon’s blood and mandrake root are real and bring a camera for great photo opportunities.
Mad Science!
What do super heroes, crazy animals, and explosions have in common? A mad scientist probably made them! In these 45 minute tours, explore where real science and mad science collides. The tour features historic medicines with surprising side effects. Upstairs, groups meet the Museum’s very own mad scientist bringing to life some hands-on experiments and the science behind them. Cost is $6 per person ages 5 and up. Girl Scout and Boy Scout groups welcome (program almost completes the Brownie Home Scientist badge). Purchase tickets through the online store.
Behind the Counter Tours
Want to see parts of the Museum most people never do? Always wanted to go behind the barriers? This tour is for you! Adult groups of up to eight people can book a 1.5 hour Behind the Counter tour of the Apothecary, which allows you to go behind the barriers and take an in-depth look at the Apothecary and objects usually not on display. Cost is $15 per person, with a maximum of eight people; minimum charge of $80. Reservations are required and should be booked at least one month in advance. Please contact the Curator of Education to book your tour.
Attics and Alleys
Find out what mysteries lie behind the closed doors of four of Alexandria’s historic sites! Attics and Alleys is a three-hour walking tour featuring the rarely seen spaces of four sites—the Lee-Fendall House, Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, and Carlyle House Historic Park—revealing the remnants of stories otherwise hidden. This behind-the-scenes access is in honor of National Preservation Month (May). Purchase tickets through the online store.