Between 900 acres of protected open space, 20 miles of trails and green spaces ranging from quiet nature preserves to bustling waterfront promenades, Alexandria’s parks contribute to making the city livable.
With the help of ALXnow readers through a Reader’s Choice Poll, we’ve compiled a list of the best parks in Alexandria, Virginia. After two weeks of intense voting (April 3-17, 2026) and nearly 600 individual votes cast, our readers navigated a field of nominees to crown the city’s best park.
Last Vote: Poll: The best park in Alexandria | Poll Held: April 3-17, 2026
Top vote getters
1. Founders Park
351 N. Union Street
This park is a waterfront promenade along the Potomac River in Old Town with plentiful green space for picnicking, playing catch with dogs, volleyball and more recreation.
2. Ben Brenman Park
4800 Brenman Park Drive
Named after retired Col. Ben Brenman, this large West End park features a pond, walking trail, fenced dog park, athletic fields and playground.
3. Jones Point Park
1 Jones Point Drive
This park at the south end of Old Town is the site of a 19th century lighthouse, which Virginia’s last remaining riverine lighthouse. Other features include an interpretive trail, fishing piers, kayak launch, playgrounds, sports courts and gardens.
Other notable spots
- Fort Ward Park
- Waterfront Park
- Oronoco Bay Park