Visit Gadsby's Tavern Museum

Gadsby's Tavern Museum is located in Old Town Alexandria, near many shops, restaurants, and other museums and historic sites. Enjoy Gadsby’s Tavern Museum either through a guided tour or by exploring the historic rooms and exhibits at your own pace. The two early American tavern buildings provide a glimpse into life in the fledgling country across race, gender, and social status.
Page updated on October 21, 2026 at 9:37 AM
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Address

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

The museum is located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, near many shops, restaurants, and other museums and historic sites. Metered Parking is available on North Royal Street, with two or three hour parking on nearby residential streets. Parking regulations are strictly enforced. There are also convenient parking garages nearby.

PHONE 703.746.4242

Hours of Operation

Spring-Summer HoursFall-Winter Hours
Mid-March through October 31       November 1 through mid-March
Monday 1 – 5 p.m.
Tuesday 1 – 5 p.m.
Wednesday closed
Thursday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday 1 – 5 p.m.		Monday closed
Tuesday closed
Wednesday closed
Thursday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday 1 – 5 p.m.

Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day 

Admission

Four people gathered around table playing historic games.

Regular Admission

Experience the c.1785 tavern and the 1792 City Tavern Independently at your own pace.

Tour guide showing image to group of guests.

Guided Tour Admission

Explore life in the new Republic and learn more about the many people of the tavern with an expert guide.

Three adults listen to a tour guide in Gadsby's Tavern Museum

Accessibility

Important information to assist in making your visit as successful as smooth as possible, including a social narrative and facility details. 

Group Services

Image of group gathered in outdoor courtyard behind tavern.

Group Visits

Groups can visit Gadsby’s Tavern Museum at a discounted rate.

Image of students with hands raised gathered around two tour guides in historic ballroom of Gadsby's Tavern Museum.

School Field Trips

Gadsby's Tavern Museum is part of the Office of Historic Alexandria, which offers a variety of field trips for schools, camps, and youth groups. 

Historic Alexandria Museum Store at The Lyceum

Event Tickets and Museum Shop

Visit the shop at Gadsby's, or shop online for merchandise and event tickets.

View the Museum Online

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.

Virtual Tour of Gadsby's Tavern Museum: The ballroom (2017)

Virtual Tours

Visit the first and second floors on Google 360 Virtual Tours. The virtual tour was created in late 2017, during the Time and Place exhibition. 

This historic print shows coffeehouse booths--wooden tables and benches with backs, plus a green curtain that hangs above the seating to further separate the booths for privacy.

Special Exhibit: Women in Business

On view through March 2027, this exhibit highlights Hannah Griffith, who operated the smaller, 1785 tavern from 1794 to at least 1797. 

Gadsby's Tavern Museum exterior

Museum Home Page

Learn about the tavern and its history, collections, events, and more. 

Guest Expectations

Please review Guest Expectations prior to arrival.

At all Historic Alexandria sites, we do not tolerate racist or derogatory jokes, comments, or harassment from our guests or staff. We value the dignity of all people who enter our sites. We are committed to creating an environment where together, we can explore Alexandria’s complex history in a manner that is respectful for all. Violators of this policy will be asked to leave the premises.