Opinion

On hot summer days, there’s nothing better than cooling off at a local pool. Alexandria has a variety of options for families, from public pools to swim clubs and even a waterpark with a wave pool and slides.

Here are the nominees for “Best Pool in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to pool? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Dog-Friendly Restaurant in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Ice Cream Shop in Alexandria. The results are now official:

1. The Dairy Godmother
2. Pop’s Old Fashion Ice Cream Co
3. Casa Rosada Artisan Gelato

In Alexandria, it’s not uncommon to see dogs accompany diners on outdoor patios. Some restaurants will even go a step further and offer treats and water to furry friends.

Here are the nominees for “Best Dog-Friendly Restaurant in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to dog-friendly eatery? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Ice Cream Shop in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Summer Camp in Alexandria. The results are now official:

1. Bishop Ireton High School Summer Camps
2. Alexandria Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities
3. St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School Summertimes

On the warm summer days, Alexandrians will venture out to their favorite ice cream shop to enjoy a frozen treat. The city has no shortage of options, from classic ice cream parlors to gelato and frozen custard shops.

Here are the nominees for “Best Ice Cream Shop in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to ice cream shop? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Summer Camp in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Outdoor Dining Spot in Alexandria. The results are now official:

1. BARCA Pier & Wine Bar
2. Ada’s on the River
3. Vola’s Dockside Grill & Hi-Tide Lounge

Picturesque waterfront seating, lively sidewalk dining and spacious outdoor patios present a range of options at restaurants around Alexandria. Whether you’re grabbing small bites, drinks or a full brunch or dinner, these outdoor dining options are great to enjoy with companions.

Here are the nominees for “Best Outdoor Dining Spot in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to outdoor dining spot? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Whether you want to send flowers to a loved one or brighten up your space or event, local florists are there to help get flowers customized for your needs. Alexandria has a range of florists to provide arrangements for anniversaries, funeral services and everything in between.

Here are the nominees for “Best Florist in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to florist? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

When your car gets dirty, scratched up or in need of an interior cleaning, there are numerous car washes and auto detailing services that have you covered. Services based in Alexandria range from physical locations to services that come to your home.

Here are the nominees for “Best Car Wash/Auto Detailing Service in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to car servicer? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Brunch Spot in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Lawn Care Service in Alexandria. The results are now official:

1. Rosemont Landscaping and Lawncare
2. Brandon Rushing Lawn & Garden Care
3. (tie) Landed and Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape

When the weekend arrives, brunch has become a staple for Alexandrians looking to enjoy a meal out. The city is home to a variety of restaurants serving everything from eggs Benedict and omelets to chicken and waffles and French toast.

Here are the nominees for “Best Brunch Spot in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to brunch? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Lawn Care Service in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Breakfast Spots in Alexandria. The results are now official:

1. BeeLiner Diner
2. Silver Diner
3. Table Talk Restaurant 

Between mowing, fertilizing, controlling weeds and other lawn care needs, Alexandrians have numerous trusted services to choose from when it comes to caring for their properties.

Here are the nominees for “Best Lawn Care Service in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to lawn care service? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Breakfast Spot in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Playground in Alexandria. The results are now official:

1. Potomac Yard Park
2. Beverley Park
3. Windmill Hill Park